Basketball fans in Port Moresby are set for a major sporting showcase tomorrow as the Golden Jubilee Masters Basketball Competition heads into its Cup Major Semi Finals at the Taurama Aquatic Indoor Stadium. The tournament, which celebrates friendship, fitness, and community spirit, will feature four back-to-back clashes between veteran teams competing for Cup and Bowl honours. Court 1 Schedule for Saturday, August 30, 2025, 6:00 PM: KSS Flame vs Tamaraws (Women’s Cup Semi Final) 6:30 PM: KKS Flames vs Tamaraws (Men’s Cup Semi Final) 7:00 PM: Exodus Legends vs Next +40 (Women’s Cup Semi Final) 7:30 PM: O.T.H.G vs Next +40 (Men’s Cup Semi Final) Organizers say fans can expect competitive matchups, dramatic moments, and the experience of seeing some of Papua New Guinea’s seasoned basketballers showcase their talent. The initiative is supported by the Prime Minister in partnership with the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG). Entry to the semi-finals is free.

Barramundis have suffered a heavy defeat in the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League A, going down by 160 runs to hosts Jersey at the Farmers Cricket Club in St Martin, Jersey. Batting first, Jersey posted 261 runs in 49.1 overs, with an outstanding innings from Asa Tribe, who struck 175 runs from 156 balls. His performance anchored Jersey’s innings and earned him the Player of the Match award. In reply, PNG struggled against a disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for 101 runs in 30.2 overs. There were moments of resistance from Vagi Guba (41 from 79 balls) and Damien Ravu (28 from 35), but wickets fell at regular intervals. At one stage, the Barramundis were reduced to 12 for 4, leaving them with little chance to recover. Jersey’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Harrison Carlyon (2/23) and Julius Sumerauer (2/27) making early breakthroughs, while George Richardson (2/20), Dom Blampied (2/15), and Nick Greenwood (2/3) cleaned up the middle and lower order. The result strengthens Jersey’s position in the tournament and leaves Papua New Guinea searching for a turnaround. The Barramundis will next face Qatar Tomorrow August 30, 2025, at the Farmers Cricket Club Ground in St Martin.

Two Papua New Guinean women, Hannah Kuwimb from Mt Hagen and Kathy Araea from Alotau, have been selected to take part in the 2025 FIBA Oceania WiLEAD Program, a regional initiative aimed at developing female leaders in basketball. The program, hosted in Canberra and supported by PacificAus Sports, brings together 15 emerging leaders from eight national federations across the Pacific. It includes online learning, keynote sessions, in-person workshops, and internship placements intended to strengthen collaboration and elevate women’s roles in the sport. The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) confirmed the announcement, describing the selection as a significant achievement for women in sport. “This is one of the first steps in the right direction,” said Delisha Koime, BFPNG Program Quality Lead. “We’re proud to see Hannah and Kathy take on this opportunity. Their selection reflects our commitment to creating pathways for women because it is not just to play basketball, but to lead, inspire, and shape its future.” As part of the program, Kuwimb and Araea will receive training in sports administration, coaching, and community engagement. BFPNG said the achievement aligns with its renewed focus on gender equity and represents a step towards creating a more inclusive future for basketball in Papua New Guinea. More information on the 2025 WiLEAD cohort is available on the FIBA Oceania website.

Strength and conditioning coach, Anthea Murray is playing a crucial role in preparing Papua New Guinea’s National Women’s Cricket Team, the PNG LEWAS, for the Women’s East Asia Pacific World Cup Qualifiers in Fiji, starting September 7. Working closely with Head Coach Mahuru Dai, Murray is ensuring the athletes are physically ready to compete at the highest international level. The team will travel to Brisbane on August 31 for final preparations. Murray’s journey into high-performance coaching began in 2022 when she earned her Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA) Level 1 certification, supported by the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). In 2024, she advanced to ASCA Level 2 training in Melbourne through Cricket Australia, gaining valuable experience in elite athlete development and high-performance environments. “Every athlete’s potential can be unlocked with the right preparation, guidance, and mindset. Cricket is not just about runs and wickets it is about resilience and trust.” As a former competitive swimmer representing PNG from the age of nine, Murray brings discipline, mental toughness, and a deep understanding of peak performance to cricket. She has worked with elite female athletes, national under-19 teams, and senior men’s squads, developing a coaching philosophy that blends physical conditioning with holistic athlete development. Murray is also a trailblazer in a male-dominated high-performance space, using her journey to inspire the next generation of female coaches in Papua New Guinea. “Strength and conditioning are not just a job; it is a calling. My vision is to establish a High-Performance Institute in PNG to provide young athletes with world-class coaching, testing, and education.” Strength and conditioning focus on improving an athlete’s strength, speed, endurance, agility, and flexibility. In addition, it also emphasizes injury prevention and faster recovery through targeted exercises and training. “In short, it’s about turning raw talent into a strong, resilient, and high-performing athlete.” With Murray’s guidance, the PNG LEWAS are entering the qualifiers stronger, faster, and more resilient, ready to represent their nation with confidence. Her leadership highlights the growing influence of female coaches in elite sport and demonstrates the impact of high-performance training in raising Papua New Guinea’s international sporting profile.

The Australia Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and PNG National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) came together to launch WAN KANTRI a 60-minute documentary film on the how our forefathers gain independence from the Australian Government with a bright blend of interviews from individuals making a mark for the PNG future moving forward. The film was launched yesterday 27th August 2025 at APEC Haus. WAN KANTRI blends rare archival footage, political history, and deeply personal accounts from citizens who lived through the country’s 1975 transition from Australian administration to sovereignty. Narrated by NBC’s Maureen Orea, the film revisits the optimism and challenges of the nation’s founding leaders, including the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and his contemporaries, while reflecting on the sacrifices of ordinary Papua New Guineans who witnessed the raising of the national flag for the first time. The documentary highlights key voices such as Dame Meg Taylor, who recalled the emotional moment the Australian flag was lowered, and descendants of leaders like Dulciana Somare, daughter of the nation’s founding prime minister, who emphasized the importance of remembering the unifying spirit that bound more than 800 tribes into one country. It also revisits the work of the Constitutional Planning Committee, led by Dr John Momis and Sir John Kaputin, which carried the voices of ordinary people into PNG’s homegrown Constitution. But WAN KANTRI is not only a reflection on the past. It also shines a spotlight on today’s youth, innovators, and farmers working to uphold the dreams of the country’s forefathers. The film follows young leaders such as Slyney Tau, who is teaching communities about sustainable farming and local economic empowerment, proving that the spirit of self-reliance enshrined in the Constitution continues to inspire new generations. With sweeping visuals of sing-sing, the Hiri Moale Festival, and village life, the documentary balances history with hope. It portrays PNG as a land of a thousand tribes, united in diversity, and still striving to fulfill the promise of independence. WAN KANTRI comes as Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary of independence in September. Both ABC and NBC described the collaboration as a way of honoring the shared history between the two nations while giving Papua New Guineans, especially its youth, an opportunity to see their own stories reflected on screen.

The long-standing partnership between the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and Papua New Guinea’s National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), strengthened by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2022, was showcased last night at the advanced screening of WAN KANTRI at APEC Haus in Port Moresby. The extraordinary 60-minute documentary, co-produced over more than a year, takes viewers on a powerful journey through Papua New Guinea’s history, spirit, and traditions, while looking ahead to the next 50 years of independence. Distinguished guests included Sir Robert Igara, Dame Meg Taylor and Sir Moi Avei, were among those who attended the screening last night. Pictured above Also, present were government, community, and cultural leaders, joined by Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Penny Morton, who addressed the audience. Although unable to attend in person, Prime Minister James Marape sent a recorded message emphasizing the broader significance of the collaboration. “This latest collaboration between NBC and ABC is more than a documentary it is a powerful reflection of the enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.” His message highlighted how co-productions like WAN KANTRI reinforce bilateral ties, celebrate shared values, and provide a platform for national storytelling. Marape expressed confidence that the partnership would continue to strengthen connections between PNG and Australian institutions, as well as between communities and audiences. Minister for Communications and ICT Timothy Masiu, also sending a recorded message, reflected on the documentary’s tribute to PNG’s first 50 years of sovereignty. “One Country is more than just an account of historical events for it is a tribute to the strength, courage and sacrifices of those who fought for and sustained our sovereignty for the first 50 years.” Minister Masiu emphasized that the documentary inspires both citizens and government to continue working toward national progress and a stronger Papua New Guinea for the next 50 years and beyond. Hosting the evening, NBC Managing Director Kora Nou reflected on the pride of the corporation in delivering the project. “The NBC is proud to be standing side by side with ABC in this landmark moment, celebrating our nation’s independence and the enduring friendship between our organizations.” ABC International Head Claire G. Morman highlighted the scope and uniqueness of the collaboration. “Never before have the ABC and NBC collaborated to produce such an incredible breadth of content, inspired by PNG’s rich history and culture.” She further explained that the documentary amplifies local voices while sharing PNG’s story with both national and international audiences. “This film shares the voices and stories of PNG’s independence while looking to what the nation’s future might hold.” As part of the celebration, the ABC and NBC gifted a copy of WAN KANTRI the Next 50 Years to the Government of Papua New Guinea. The ABC NBC relationship began in 1973 when the ABC gifted its Port Moresby headquarters to the newly established NBC. Since then, the organizations have collaborated through staff exchanges, training programs, and sharing of content and technical expertise. Where to Watch, WAN KANTRI: The Next 50 Years will premiere on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, Independence Day, across multiple platforms: NBCTV at 7:30pm (PGT) ABC Australia at 2:00pm and 8:00pm (PGT) NBC National Radio 90.7FM at 8:00am and 8:00pm (PGT) ABC Radio Australia 101.9FM at 1:00pm and 6:00pm (PGT) Throughout September, ABC and NBC will also share special “PNG 50 Years” programming across NBCTV, NBC National Radio, TribeFM, ABC Australia, ABC Radio Australia, ABC Pacific, and ABC News.

The Nasfund Contributors Savings and Loan Society (NCSL) has introduced a digital platform designed to make financial services more accessible for its members. The new system, called MyNCSL Online, allows members to check account balances, download statements, transfer funds, and apply for loans remotely. Higher-tier loan options and an Adhoc Remittance feature for growing savings are also available through the platform. NCSL officer Richard Deregi recently demonstrated the service at Stocks & Partners, registering employee Elizabeth Renagi as a new member and signing her up for MyNCSL using a Wokabaut tablet. Renagi said she was able to access her membership account immediately. The digital service is part of NCSL’s push to improve convenience and financial inclusion for its contributors. Other employees at the event expressed interest in joining the savings and loan society after witnessing the platform in use. NCSL said every kina saved through the platform not only earns interest but can also increase a member’s borrowing capacity.

As Kilakila Secondary School turns 60 this year, much of its history risks being forgotten but marking this milestone, the current head boy, Ryan Nongi, has taken it upon himself and the Student Council to preserve the school’s story in line with the anniversary theme “Discovering the History of Kilakila Secondary School”. Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG, Nongi said he has devoted his time not only to school activities but also to compiling a book that documents school's past, including the struggles and triumphs that shaped it. The idea was born out of loss. In 2023, a fire destroyed the administration building, wiping out vital school records and historical documents. Determined not to let the school’s legacy disappear, Nongi and the SRC reached out to alumni and past students to recover pieces of history from the 1960s to the present day. Among their discoveries was that Sir Ted Diro, Papua New Guinea’s first Defense Force Commander, studied at Kilakila in the early 1960s. But not all chapters of Kilakila’s history are easy ones, while during the late 2000s and early 2010s, the school became associated with a cult group known as MOK (Members of Kila), which pressured male Grade 9 students to join. The practice, which damaged the school’s reputation, was brought to an end in 2019 through peace-building initiatives led by alumni, staff, and student leaders including then Deputy Student Service Leader Ms. Pala Balun and Head Boy Kenneth Leman. In more recent years, Kilakila has produced emerging talents such as rap artist DeSiz (Tim Masil) and rugby league players Justin Aisop Mol of the Vipers Academy and the PNG NRL Bid Academy. The history book also records the names of principals, head boys, and head girls from the 1980s to today and for Nongi, this project is about legacy. “I don’t see this anniversary as just another event,” he said. “It’s about contributing back to the school. Leadership is not about the title you carry but how you serve, and what you leave for those who come after you.” Hours of research, interviews, and cross-checking have gone into the project, which Nongi hopes will capture the resilience of a school community that has endured fires, stigma, and challenges, yet continues to stand tall. “Respect is a two-way thing. You must give it to earn it and even when others don’t give it back, as a leader you must still show respect,” Nongi said. As Kilakila Secondary reflects on six decades of growth, struggle, and achievement, its current head boy has set down a marker for future generations as leadership is not measured in status, but in service.

Papua New Guinea’s Barramundis suffered a 4-wicket defeat to Kuwait in their second ICC CWC Challenge League A 2024–26 fixture at the Farmers Cricket Club Ground in St Martin on 24th August 2025. Batting first, PNG struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 148 in 35.2 overs. Despite a few promising starts, the team was unable to post a challenging total as Kuwait’s disciplined bowling kept the innings under control. Mohammed Aslam starred with the ball, taking 3 for 32 in 6.2 overs, supported well by his teammates. Chasing 149, Kuwait lost early wickets, slipping to 29 for 3 in the first four overs. However, Aslam turned the tide with a composed 55 off 50 balls, anchored by Ravija Sandaruwan’s 32 and Shiraz Khan’s unbeaten 23. Their steady partnerships ensured Kuwait reached the target in just 22.4 overs at a run rate of 6.57. PNG’s bowlers fought valiantly, with Damien Ravu taking 2 for 21 and Kabua Morea claiming 2 wickets in his 6.4 overs. Alei Nao and John Kariko each contributed with a wicket, and the team briefly threatened at 97 for 6. However, Aslam’s all-round performance, which earned him Player of the Match honors, guided Kuwait to victory. Despite the loss, the Barramundis remain focused and look forward to their remaining fixtures on the Jersey Tour: Wednesday, 27 August – PNG vs Kenya (Grainville) Thursday, 28 August – PNG vs Jersey (Farmers Field) Saturday, 30 August – PNG vs Qatar (Farmers Field) The team aims to bounce back strongly in the upcoming matches of the ICC CWC Challenge League A.

Stakeholders in Western Province have praised the Papua New Guinea Sustainable Development Program (SDP) for taking a transparent and inclusive approach in presenting its 2024 Program Updates. Middle Fly District Administrator Petrus Malongim said the session in Kiunga last week gave community leaders and government officials a clear understanding of SDP’s work across the province. “It gives a clear idea of where your footprints are and your plans going into the future in terms of covering all districts in the province,” Mr. Malongim said. He also indicated his district is exploring a partnership with SDP to support health and education infrastructure. The Kiunga meeting on August 20th followed an earlier update in Daru on August 6th. Both events brought together government officials, business representatives, NGOs, churches and development partners to discuss SDP’s programs and future plans. A key request from the Daru forum was the creation of a stakeholder working group to align efforts and strengthen collaboration. SDP Chief Executive Officer Lesieli Taviri said the updates are part of the organization's commitment to accountability. "Our program updates are about good stewardship and keeping us accountable. We want to make sure our stakeholders have visibility of the work we are doing, the progress we’ve made, and the lessons we are learning along the way,” Ms. Taviri said. She added that the recognition from provincial leaders shows the value of partnerships in achieving lasting development outcomes.

Kilakila Secondary School in Port Moresby city marked its 60th anniversary on Monday with celebrations that reflected not only its proud history but also its struggles and resilience over the decades. The school, located in the Motu Koita heartland of the capital city, was established in 1965 and has since grown from modest beginnings into one of the country’s most respected secondary institutions. Generations of leaders, professionals, and community builders have passed through its classrooms, contributing to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and beyond. Kilakila’s story is one of perseverance. For decades, the school has served students from diverse backgrounds, many from low-income and settlement communities, instilling values of leadership, responsibility, and service alongside formal education. In 2023, the school faced one of its toughest challenges when a suspected arson attack destroyed its administration building, wiping out vital records and historical documents. Despite the setback, classes resumed the very next day in temporary spaces. A senior student was later arrested in connection with the fire. In 2024, alumni and the wider school community launched a major fundraising drive, which helped rebuild six key infrastructures lost to the blaze. The initiative was a reminder of the unity and shared determination that has carried the school through its most difficult moments. Principal Ms. Jean Ifuda said this year’s anniversary was about more than just marking the school’s past it was about linking education with culture and community. “We wanted to blend the school’s 60th anniversary with Papua New Guinea’s upcoming 50th Independence celebrations,” Ms. Ifuda said. “Students researched and presented on the cultural heritage of the Motu Koita, the traditional winds important to the Hiri trade, and the history of the school’s leadership. This was a way of respecting indigenous culture while celebrating our journey.” The highlight of the day was the unveiling of a monument recognizing the seven principals who have served the school since its establishment. New vision and mission statement boards were also launched, reflecting the school’s focus on holistic, inclusive, and equitable education in the digital age. Head boy Ryan Nongi described the event as a chance for students to give back to the institution that has shaped them. “This celebration is not just about looking back, but about recognizing what we can contribute to our school and community,” Nongi said. “Leadership is not about titles, but about how you serve. Despite the challenges, we’ve come through together, and that’s something to be grateful for.” As Kilakila Secondary celebrates 60 years, it does so with a renewed vision for the future, with one that embraces resilience, cultural identity, and a commitment to preparing students for leadership in a fast-changing world. The celebrations, held on campus from 9am to 2pm, carried the theme “Discovering the History of Kilakila Secondary School”, with students, staff, alumni, and community members joining in the milestone event.

In a strong display of youth culture and sporting spirit, Papua New Guinea’s back-to-back hip-hop champions Wan Squad and national rugby player Morea Morea, have been unveiled as the official brand ambassadors for Sparx footwear in the country. The launch took place on Saturday, 23rd August, at Kwalimu Haus, Port Moresby, marking the official entry of Sparx into the PNG market through a 13-year strategic partnership between India’s Relaxo Footwears Limited and local distributor Niumi Distributors Limited. Speaking at the event, Morea Morea shared his pride at being named alongside Wan Squad. “Growing up and being introduced to rugby league as a kid, I never thought it would take me this far from Central Dabaris to debuting with the Hunters and now playing for the Capras. I am so grateful to Sparx for recognizing me and giving me this platform,” he said. Sparx, an athleisure footwear brand under Relaxo, India’s largest footwear manufacturer—offers a wide range of sports and lifestyle shoes designed for comfort, durability, and affordability. The new collection has been tailored for PNG’s tropical climate and active lifestyles and will be available across multi-brand retail outlets nationwide. Ritesh Dua, Executive Director of Relaxo Footwears Ltd., said the partnership aims to connect with PNG’s youthful energy. “Papua New Guinea is a young and dynamic market, and we are thrilled to introduce Sparx to its vibrant consumers. Our collaboration with Niumi reflects our commitment to building local partnerships and delivering affordable footwear that resonates with the local lifestyle,” Mr. Dua said. Waymun Ho, representative of Niumi Distributors Limited, said Sparx brings international standards to PNG consumers. “The brand’s proven success across multiple countries gives us confidence in its potential here. With its innovative design, global standards, and competitive pricing, Sparx is well-positioned to become a preferred choice among PNG’s fashion-conscious and quality-seeking consumers,” Mr. Ho said. Mr. Ho also reflected on the history of the partnership, which began in 2013 after a business connection in the Solomon Islands introduced Niumi to Relaxo. He said PNG has since become one of Relaxo’s fastest-growing markets. “When we started, people often wore slippers that wore out within a few months. Relaxo footwear proved to be more durable — we’ve tested some slippers up to one million steps. That quality is why PNG consumers have embraced the brand,” he explained. He added that footwear in PNG has evolved from being seen as a basic necessity to becoming a fashion statement, especially among young people. “If you look at social media, people notice not just what you wear but also your shoes. Footwear has become an important part of self-expression, and we believe this market will keep growing,” he said. Relaxo and Niumi said sales have grown steadily, with imports reaching over 100 containers of footwear annually. Mr. Ho noted that during his early visits to PNG, many people walked barefoot, but today more are wearing quality shoes — which he sees as evidence of positive change in lifestyle and access. The launch event also featured the exclusive screening of Sparx’s latest television commercial, starring Morea Morea and Wan Squad, which showcased the brand’s energetic and youthful identity.