To ensure the successful preparations for the much-anticipated Papal Visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Catholic Bishops Conference (CBC) has devised a comprehensive plan that is set to involve a significant number of approximately 7, 000 youths. With just four months remaining until the arrival of Pope Francis in September, the dedicated efforts in organizing this extraordinary event have already been set in motion. Anticipation is high as the event promises to attract a diverse array of attendees, not only from PNG, but also from neighboring regions such as the Solomon Islands, creating a truly global gathering. With the anticipated large turnout, the CBC has emphasized the crucial role that the youths will play in assisting with the smooth flow of the event, highlighting the need for marshals to help maintain order and manage the crowds effectively. “In all the dioceses in PNG, roughly 100 individuals from each diocese will attend, and most of these individuals will be young people.” “It is our desire for as many young people to come and be a part of this spiritual event.” Pope Francis’ visit is scheduled from September 6th – 9th, 2024.

The PNG Barramundis have arrived in the West Indies for the ICC T20 World Cup Tournament. After an exhausting four-day journey, the team has arrived in St Kitts, where they will spend the first round of training sessions and practice matches. The PNG Barramundis, who are part of the support team for the ICC T20 World Cup, benefit from the invaluable expertise of specialist Coach Phil Simmons, a former West Indies cricketer and Trinidadian all-rounder with over 40 years of cricketing experience. This is why Simmons is in this position with the PNG Barramundis, returning to his home territory where he played as a youngster for the West Indies and now serving as a specialist coach. The towering athlete's impeccable career has included domestic representation with county teams such as Border and Easterns in South Africa, Durham, Leicestershire, and Wales Minor in England and Wales, as well as his home country of Trinidad and Tobago and, of course, the West Indies Cricket Team. Simmons has coached the national teams of Zimbabwe, India, the West Indies, and, more recently, Afghanistan. “My role here is as a consultant coach and how I put across my experience, not just playing in world cups but playing in the Caribbean and the things that we should be looking at to make sure we do it right in the Caribbean and especially the venues that we play at,” said Simmons. “As a player internationally, for fourteen years and then as an international coach for eighteen years it’s been a long time in the game.” “It’s always brilliant to come home, always brilliant to come back to any part of the West Indies." “I’m looking forward to getting home to Trinidad. Having people come here, me getting back here, it's always a great thing, it’s always something to look forward to.” He commented on the PNG Barramundis and their arrival and going straight into their training. “Their energy is unbelievable! Their warmups alone yesterday, got me tired; the guys look like they have settled in really well.” “On Sunday in training we started to get out in the middle of their game, so they started on some of the things they have to do here in the Caribbean and it's nice to see the energy that’s among this squad.” “I’ve known the head coach (Tatenda Taibu) for a long time and he’s always energetic, there is always a lot of energy but the players seem to be pushing him where that is not so and I like that atmosphere in the team, I like the liveliness in the team.” The first practice match was played against Canada over the weekend, with more practice matches planned throughout the week as the team adjusts. The first match was delayed slightly due to a rain squall.

Prime Minister James Marape has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the PNG men's cricket team, the Barramundis, on their recent qualification for the 2024 Twenty20 Cricket World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA. As the Barramundis left for the World Cup this week, Prime Minister Marape extended his best wishes to the team's management, coaching staff, officials, and players. "You are not only participating in a World Cup; you are also representing our great country, Papua New Guinea." “This significant achievement makes my government and the people of PNG extremely proud." The Prime Minister praised the team's passion and dedication to cricket. "As you wear the PNG colours and face your opponents, remember that your country fully supports you.” “You are the best of the best, and I am completely confident in your abilities and sportsmanship." The Barramundis will compete in the tournament from June 1-29, 2024, as champions of the East Asia-Pacific Region, following a strong qualifying round under the International Cricket Council system. The team left PNG on Monday and will play a few warm-up matches before the official tournament begins. Prime Minister Marape concluded his remarks with a rallying cry for the players. "Aim high and give your absolute best.” “You have been chosen to represent our country because you are worthy of the honour.” “Remember, every victory you achieve on the field benefits all of Papua New Guinea."

Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, Ms. Elizabeth Genia officially opened the Women’s Micro Bank Branch in Kerema, making it the fifth branch to be operating in the country. Ms. Genia addressed the hundreds of witnesses of Kerema town who were present for the event. “Today’s official opening of its fifth branch celebrates another achievement in a long line of achievements we have seen for women’s micro bank.” “I am sure your highly esteemed founder, the late Janet Sape, would have been extremely proud of the organization affectionately known as Mama Bank, now one of the top 50 companies for women in APEC countries and well regarded as a financial services innovator.” Ms. Genia stated that WMB has emerged as a key driver of financial inclusion, which was initially a BPNG-led innovation but is now a national strategic priority. She praised women's microbank services for addressing several financial inclusion goals, particularly emphasizing depositing, and lending opportunities for the 85% of the population who remain unbanked. “I understand the Kerema branch will enable the people of the district, particularly the women, to take advantage of services such as the MSC credit scheme, financial literacy training, as well as basics, including deposit takings and loans.” “The branch will provide a practical and desirable alternative to the risks of holding cash, informal money lending and money scams, all of which stop people from building a comfortable standard of living.” “Today’s official opening gives members of the community the opportunity to take significant steps forward towards building the financial security and financial independence.” Concurrently with the opening, the Kerema District SME Policy was officially launched by Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Honourable James Marape. The Prime Minister committed K3million to the WMB Kerema branch as part of the Government's partnership with KDDA in assisting to create a credit lending facility where Gulf women, particularly mothers in SMEs, can benefit.

The Catholic Bishops Conference (CBC) yesterday launched the official registration website papalvisitpng.com and logo for the 2024 Papal visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG) in September. The website designed by CBC's IT specialist will enable attendees from PNG and Solomon Islands to register and confirm their attendance. General Coordinator of the Papal Visit, Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj confirmed the purpose behind launching the website. “The reason for the website is to bring together the people of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands and provide an opportunity to experience the Pope’s presence in the region.” Meanwhile, the visitation logo, which contains three elements (the cross, the bird of paradise & the word PRAY), was explained by the Chairperson of the Papal Visit and Bishop of Lae Diocese, His Lordship, Bishop Rozario Menezes. “The cross helps us to recall that the Holy Father comes to visit PNG not in his own name, but in the name of Jesus, whom the Pope represents on earth as the Vicar of Christ.” “It reminds us of the sacrifice that opens the gates of heaven and obtains salvation, and for this reason since the very beginning of the Church, it became the source of glory for Christians as it is referred to in Galatians 6:14 [“But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world (ESV).”] “The bird of paradise represents Papua New Guinea, because this species can be found only in Papua New Guinea and Eastern Australia.” “The word PRAY is making reference to Luke 11:1 [‘Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.”] When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray which gave rise to the most perfect and beautiful prayer that has ever been heard: the Lord’s Prayer.” Registration is now open with the website's launch.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape recently lauded the National Airports Corporation (NAC) and the Civil Aviation Development Investment Project (CADIP) for their significant role in the planned construction of the new K76.8 million Gurney Airport in Alotau, Milne Bay Province. He expressed his commendations during the groundbreaking ceremony held in Alotau, highlighting the initiative as a crucial component of the Government’s Connect PNG initiative. The upgrade of provincial airport terminals under CADIP, which is being carried out in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), represents a strategic component of the country's infrastructure development aimed at boosting economic growth and tourism. Since its inception in 2010 with CADIP1, the project has facilitated the enhancement of numerous airports across the country, resulting in investments totalling K1.6 billion. The project, which is expected to be completed in 26 months, aims to improve travel times, cargo and passenger handling services, and overall travel facilities. This initiative not only helps to improve operational efficiencies, but it also promotes regional economic growth and tourism development. Minister Marape extended his gratitude to the ADB for their enduring support and underscored the importance of infrastructure in improving the livelihoods of Papua New Guineans. “Upgrading airport terminals, enhancing safety and security, and generating job opportunities are pivotal for the holistic development of the region.” He also mentioned the promising prospects for tourism in Milne Bay and urged local leaders to prioritize this sector. The collaboration between the NAC, various investors, and the ADB demonstrates a shared commitment to improving transportation and connectivity in Papua New Guinea. Alotau's Gurney Airport is proud to be the first recipient of the second phase of CADIP, known as CADIP 2. “The diligent efforts by our investors compel us to rise to the occasion, ensuring we match their commitment to delivering 21st century infrastructure.”

Former Olympic gold medalist and swimming legend Liesel Jones will serve as the SP Sports Awards guest speaker this year, on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Crown Hotel. SP Brewery Corporate Affairs Manager John Nilkare introduced the swimming sensation during the announcement of the SP Sports Awards finalists. "Leisel is an 8-time Olympic medalist and the first Australian swimmer to compete in four Olympic Games, and we are delighted to have her here for the awards night on June 1st." "During her visit, we've scheduled a coaching clinic at the Taurama Aquatic Center with the Boroko Swimming Club with aims to inspire our younger swimmers.” “Leisel, who began swimming at a young age and went on to win one of Australia's youngest Olympic medals, is looking forward to working with our young swimmers." · At just 15, Liesel became the youngest member of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Swimming Team. · Leisel won two silver medals in the 100m breaststroke and 4x100m Medley Relay, making her one of the youngest Olympic medalists in Australia’s history. · 1 gold medal (1x100m medley relay), 1 silver (200m breaststroke, 1 bronze (100m breaststroke) at Athens in 2004 Olympic games. · 1 gold (100m breasts), 1 gold (4x100m medley relay), 1 silver (200m breaststroke) in Beijing 2008. · 1 silver (4x100m medley relay) London Olympic Games 2012. Since announcing her retirement in 2012, Jones has continued to excel. She published a memoir, hosted Network Ten's coverage of the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, and was a swimming expert commentator for the 7 Network's Tokyo Olympic Games. She is currently a commentator for Triple M's Rush Hour in Brisbane.

As part of a vision to transform his home province – Madang, youth and community leader Kurere Matanzana, once again took to the grassroots level, initiating another project in April. This time, a cocoa farming project called the ‘Madang Solar Cocoa Farmers’ with the support of Mr. Seth Mal, who was elected as the chairman of the association, upon establishment of the project, given his vast background in the agriculture sector. Matanzana stated that more than 250 cocoa farmers and their families from Ambenob and Transgogol LLGs are involved in the project. “The concept used in the project is known as the family cocoa concept – in this concept we have a goal for every family to plant at least 300 cocoa seedlings, which in turn encourages SME (Small Medium Enterprise). Despite it being a noble task, he explained the complicated process involved in starting and maintaining this initiative. “We created an association, opened up a bank account, and obtained an export license, which was a huge milestone for us, although challenging.” “Our organization was registered with PNG IPA (Investment Promotion Authority) under the name ‘Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society’; hence, it became a legal entity recognized by the PNG Cocoa Board.” Matanzana stated that the Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society can be a trusted body in assisting cocoa farmers in and around Madang Province to find potential buyers. “We are acting as the middleman for Madang cocoa farmers, connecting them to overseas markets, facilitating a channel to export their produce and also help the farmers gain more financially that reflects the value of their time, energy and effort invested in growing cocoa.” He further stated that they are working on collecting data and getting other cocoa farmers who are not connected, that is, individuals in rural locations and farmers who are unaware of Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society. Additionally, he and the farmers reached a verbal agreement, which will see Mr. Matanzana conduct certain training sessions, equipping them with financial knowledge and information, and build their capacity. " “The cocoa farmers must recognize the importance of land and cocoa seedlings and how to maximize both the human and natural resources they possess.” Matanzana’s ultimate goal is to connect at least 5, 000 – 6, 000 cocoa farmers from selected LLGs and as well as diversify and include vanilla farmers. Meanwhile, the Madang Provincial Government has pledged to support Mr. Matanzana and Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society, which will be launched at Yelso village between May – July 2024.

Prime Minister James Marape recently praised the efforts of the PNG Customs in Port Moresby for their significant achievements in combating the importation of counterfeit goods into Papua New Guinea from 36 per cent to 4 per cent. “This has been made possible by increased government investments in border surveillance and fighting illicit trade.” During a meeting with PNG Customs Chief Commissioner, David Towe and representatives from British American Tobacco (BAT) PNG, discussions focused on excise tax enforcement and the penalties for businesses that do not comply with customs regulations. “Whilst I am greatly concerned about continued activities relating to directly importing or aiding in the import and distribution of counterfeit goods in Papua New Guinea, I would like to commend Customs Chief Commissioner David Towe and his team at PNG Customs for putting in place stricter mechanisms and processes with regards to trade at our borders, which is resulting in the identification of illegal trade and smuggling of goods.” The PM also acknowledged PNG Customs' role in generating significant revenue for the government over the last few years, emphasizing the importance of strict measures to combat illegal imports. He highlighted the critical situation of illicit cigarette trafficking and related goods, which was discussed with BAT PNG. Chief Commissioner Towe outlined the difficulties in distinguishing between counterfeit and genuine products, noting that illicit goods frequently resemble real items and are sold at comparable prices. He confirmed continued collaboration with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to address these issues.

Under the theme: “Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of Environmental Crisis,” students from the University of Papua New Guinea in the course of Journalism & Public Relations, were fortunate to learn from and be challenged by important figures in various disciplines as they recently marked World Media Freedom Day. Present at the event was the Executive Dean, School of Humanities & Social Sciences, Professor Leo Marai; Acting Chief Executive Officer, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), Mr. Douglas Keari; Director of Centre for Climate Change & Sustainable Development, UPNG, Professor Chalapan Kaluwin; Director, Melanesian Institute of Arts & Communications (MIAC), Dr. Michael Mel; and Minister of Communication & Information Technology, Timothy Masiu. Professor Kaluwin spoke on the importance of journalists knowing their environment before reporting. “Journalism and journalists can help to promote PNG and tourism; you can do that; however, you lack the data.” “Before you promote your country, you must know your country – get your facts right before you report.” He further gave a common example to further illustrate the importance of journalism in bringing information to the globe. “Foreigners still think we practice cannibalism because the facts of our country have not reached their shores.” “Journalists can inform the world that we are not the cannibals they assume we are.” Minister of Communication & Information Technology, Timothy Masiu further supported Professor Kaluwin’s stance on knowing facts. “Journalists have a responsibility to tell the truth; the power of the press to inform, educate and mobilize the masses towards a sustainable future cannot be overstated.” Additionally, he spoke on the effects of climate change acknowledging that Papua New Guinea is also facing the dangers of global warming which has affected especially the coastal areas causing islands to disappear undersea. He further challenged the students to not become passive in their work. “I do not want to see students graduating only to become desk journalists; we need stories from pressing issues and situations in and around the country.”

Students of Evedahana Junior High School outside Port Moresby now have a computer lab for their Information Technology classes - a timely assistance from BSP Financial Group Limited’s annual Community Project. The project by BSP’s Gordons Commercial Centre and Waigani Drive Branches enables the students of the new junior high school in the Moresby North-East area to sit in and have resources for their IT classes. Community Project Coordinator Relvie Tarutia, who is delivering the project on behalf of the BSP Gordons Commercial Centre and Waigani Drive Branch teams, stated that the project involved BSP refurbishing the school's existing computer lab, which had not been used in ten years. "We also donated 10 computers along with accessories and chairs for the students to use, enabling them and their teachers to now have access to the internet to do their research while enhancing their computer skills as well." When Evedahana Junior High School Deputy Headmistress Pauline Kavora received the project, she expressed her gratitude to BSP for the new computer lab. She described BSP’s assistance as a bonus for the school that has since been upgraded to Junior High school with the inclusion of grade nine students. “Now students and teachers have a newly refurbished computer lab for us to use after ten years.” The project was delivered at a total cost of K60, 000

A group of local vanilla farmers is rewriting their futures with the help of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme by capitalizing on the vast potential of overseas markets. This initiative, supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is a comprehensive journey from the soil to the digital world, ensuring local communities' prosperity through innovation, digitalization, and empowerment. At the heart of this transformation are three dynamic Mandi Village youths who, armed with newfound digital skills, have launched a portal to global markets: a website featuring their vanilla beans. This digital platform has not only opened doors to an Australian buyer but has also served as a testament to their genuine, quality-driven business, marking a milestone in their journey from traditional farming to global trading. Mongs AgTrade Services Limited symbolizes this leap forward. Benefiting from the FAO and ITU support, this group of farmers has successfully navigated the international market, now embarking on the second batch of export of high-quality vanilla beans (70 KG worth PGK 21,000, approx. USD 5,500) to Australia, a venture that has significantly boosted their earnings. Nicodemas Mainga, the group's company secretary, shares their story of digital transition. “The buyer saw our brief interest on our LinkedIn page, and we communicated through messenger application where they asked for our webpage.” “We created our e-marketplace page with the support of three youths empowered by ITU, who participated in digital skills and e-commerce trainings in Brandi Secondary School and Maprik Secondary School’s Resource Centers.” This venture into digital marketing was a pivotal moment, encapsulating their commitment to quality and the integrity of their operations, bolstered by the comprehensive support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. "Before the EU-STREIT PNG Programme’s intervention, our understanding of vanilla quality processing and marketing was at a local level.” Now, the Programme has advanced our skills to a higher level, improving both processing and marketing capabilities significantly." Young farmer Jenelyn Marmber personifies the initiative's commitment to youth and gender inclusivity, demonstrating the impactful role young women play in agricultural innovation and market expansion. Her involvement is a powerful illustration of the Programme's effectiveness in engaging the youth. “We applied what we learned in the training led by ITU to create a webpage and e-marketplace page for our business.” “As a young woman in our business group, I feel good to actively contribute to finding a market for our vanilla.” “This is my first time contributing in a big way to support my villagers and I feel really good.” "The quality of our vanilla was not at an export standard before EU-STREIT PNG, but now, thanks to the enhanced techniques and modern equipment provided by FAO under the Programme, our vanilla quality meets international standards, enabling us to command better prices." Prior to the EU-STREIT PNG’s intervention, the producers of Mandi Village cautiously navigated international trade, uncertain of their beans' quality. The introduction to the FAO’s Vanilla Value Chain Development initiative in 2021 marked a pivotal shift, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to enhance the quality of their vanilla. Joel Pilisau, the Group’s Company Director spoke on how this initiative has transformed their production, yielding healthier plants and superior vanilla beans, a testament to the effectiveness of the skills, technologies, and resources provided. "Thanks to the Programme, we've upgraded from basic to modern cultivation and quality processing materials and equipment.” “This advancement has allowed us to achieve more in less time and significantly elevate our standard of living." The emphasis on quality doesn't stop with cultivation. Through the Programme, farmers have embraced advanced techniques and tools, such as climate-smart practices and solar dryers, which have significantly enhanced the quality of their vanilla beans. “The solar vanilla dryer provided by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme has really helped us to condition our beans and that was one selling point for our quality vanilla beans, thank you EU-STREIT PNG.” This excellence is exactly what global markets are searching for, and the farmers of Mandi Village are rising to meet this demand. The Programme's wider support network is vast, offering training, tools, and access to innovative technologies and facilities. The establishment of Resource Centres across the Sepik region is a cornerstone of this strategy implemented by ITU, providing farmers with lasting access to ICT and digital services, crucial for their ongoing development. These centres play a critical role in supporting local farmers, ensuring they are equipped with modern farming techniques, business operation skills, online marketing, access to e-market, and digital commerce knowledge. The story of Mandi Village's farmers is an inspiring example of how targeted support can elevate traditional agriculture into a lucrative, sustainable enterprise with a global footprint. Their journey from Papua New Guinea to the world stage serves as a powerful testament to the potential of local farmers to meet and surpass international quality standards, attracting global buyers in search of premium vanilla products. This narrative transcends vanilla farming; it's a tale of empowerment, technological innovation, and global connectivity. It illustrates a path for local farmers to envision and achieve greater aspirations, ensuring that the finest vanilla from Papua New Guinea reaches international markets, cultivated by its people and propelled by the vision and assistance of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme.