Tasminnie ISIMELI

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has called on Papua New Guinea to continue playing a leading role in addressing the Pacific's most pressing challenges, emphasizing that stronger regional cooperation is essential for the future of Melanesia.Speaking after bilateral talks with Prime Minister James Marape in Port Moresby, Prime Minister Wale noted that Papua New Guinea's size, resources, and regional influence place it in a unique position to provide vital leadership, both within Melanesia and across the wider Pacific.Wale expressed his gratitude to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea for the warm welcome extended to his delegation. He described his first official visit as Prime Minister as a crucial opportunity to deepen relations between two nations long connected by history, culture, and faith.The relationship between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, Wale noted, is rooted in centuries of shared Melanesian ancestry and has been strengthened over generations through church missions, cultural exchanges, and close people-to-people links. He reaffirmed that the Solomon Islands values Papua New Guinea as a trusted partner and seeks closer collaboration on security, economic development, climate resilience, and Pacific unity.A key issue raised during the bilateral meeting was the future of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG). Prime Minister Wale asserted that the regional body has the potential to play a much stronger role in advancing the interests of Melanesian nations, urging member states to work together to improve the organization's effectiveness and decision-making processes.The Solomon Islands Prime Minister also addressed the issue of West Papua, stating that Pacific leaders should continue engaging Indonesia through respectful dialogue while consistently raising concerns about the human rights situation affecting Melanesian people. He added that his discussions with Prime Minister Marape explored ways to encourage constructive engagement with Indonesia without undermining the vital relationships Pacific nations maintain with their regional neighbor.Economic cooperation emerged as another top priority, particularly regarding the development of the Solomon Islands' emerging mining industry. Wale explained that his country is eager to learn from Papua New Guinea's extensive experience in resource development and governance to ensure mineral wealth delivers lasting benefits to local communities.Reflecting on the impact of decades of unsustainable logging in the Solomon Islands, Prime Minister Wale stressed that his government is determined to avoid similar mistakes in the mining sector by tightening governance and promoting responsible investment.To achieve this, he invited Papua New Guinean mining companies and state-owned enterprises to invest in the Solomon Islands, noting that partnerships between Melanesian countries make it easier to resolve challenges through mutual understanding and shared cultural values.Prime Minister Wale welcomed Prime Minister Marape's planned visit to Honiara later this year, noting it will provide an excellent opportunity for both governments to advance discussions and build on the commitments made in Port Moresby.The future of the region, Wale concluded, ultimately depends on Melanesian countries working together, learning from one another, and building partnerships that will benefit their people for generations to come.

Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have taken a major step toward strengthening their bilateral relationship by signing a new Framework Agreement on Development and Economic Cooperation. The accord will guide collaboration between the two nations from 2026 to 2030.The agreement was finalized following high-level bilateral talks in Port Moresby between Prime Minister James Marape and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, who is making his first official visit to Papua New Guinea since taking office.Prime Minister Marape described the meeting as an important milestone for the two Melanesian nations, noting that the agreement provides a clear roadmap for closer cooperation in trade, investment, security, infrastructure, economic development, and regional affairs.He emphasized that Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have enjoyed decades of friendship extending well beyond their years as independent nations, rooted in a shared Melanesian ancestry, cultural traditions, and Christian values.As both countries move into the next chapter of their nationhood—with Papua New Guinea celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and the Solomon Islands approaching the same milestone in 2028—Marape stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships that will benefit future generations.The high-level discussions focused on mutual challenges, including border security, economic diversification, climate change, regional stability, and the shifting geopolitical landscape in the Pacific.The Prime Minister reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's full support for the Solomon Islands' leadership within the Pacific Islands Forum, stating that the two countries will continue working together to ensure Pacific voices are amplified on critical issues like trade, climate action, and regional security.Marape also highlighted the robust economic links between the neighbors, noting that the Solomon Islands remains the largest destination for Papua New Guinean investment in the Pacific.Papua New Guinea has invested more than K1 billion in the Solomon Islands through companies operating in agriculture, telecommunications, and various other industries. Marape encouraged businesses from both nations to continue exploring cross-border investment opportunities.Additionally, the two leaders discussed establishing closer trade arrangements among Melanesian countries—including Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Fiji, and Vanuatu—to drive economic integration and encourage a greater flow of goods and investment within the region.Marape confirmed that his government will now develop a detailed implementation plan to execute the commitments outlined in the new cooperation framework. He also announced plans to visit the Solomon Islands in the near future to hold further discussions on expanding bilateral cooperation and identifying practical, mutually beneficial projects.The Prime Minister concluded that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring Melanesian countries work hand-in-hand to promote peace, prosperity, and sustainable development across the region.

Family and sexual violence remains a major concern across Papua New Guinea (PNG), with thousands of cases continuing to be reported each year, according to statistics presented at the 9th Biannual Military Wives Convention.During a Family Sexual Violence Awareness Program hosted at the Don Bosco Technical Institute (DBTI) in Port Moresby city, officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's Family Sexual Violence Unit shared data highlighting the scale of the issue nationwide.The figures showed that more than 6,900 criminal family and sexual violence cases and over 3,500 civil matters were reported to Family Sexual Violence Units throughout the country in 2025.Between January and May this year alone, more than 5,200 criminal cases and nearly 2,800 civil matters had already been recorded.Among the most commonly reported criminal offences were assault, threatening words, insulting language, threatening behaviour, psychological abuse, aggravated assault, property damage and child neglect.Civil matters frequently reported included adultery, child custody disputes, maintenance issues, separation and cases involving neglect of mothers and children.The presentation also revealed that women continue to make up the majority of complainants in family and sexual violence cases, while men account for most perpetrators reported to authorities.FSVU officers used the statistics to highlight the ongoing need for public awareness, stronger support systems and increased reporting of violence-related incidents.Participants were also educated on the cycle of violence, which includes periods of tension building, violent incidents, denial and reconciliation, often making it difficult for victims to permanently leave abusive relationships.The session explored some of the reasons women remain in abusive situations, including financial dependence, fear, concern for children, family pressure, lack of support, low self-esteem and hope that the perpetrator will change.Officers emphasised that violence should never be accepted as normal and encouraged victims to seek help through the Family Sexual Violence Unit and other support agencies.Military wives attending the convention were urged to use the information gained during the session to educate their families and communities and help create safer environments for women and children.The awareness program concluded with a call for greater community involvement in preventing family and sexual violence and ensuring victims receive the support and protection they need.

Military wives attending the 9th Biennial Military Wives Convention have been urged to take proactive steps to protect their health through regular medical check-ups and cervical cancer screening.The awareness session, presented by Critical Care Nurse Specialist Sr Nathalie Mosh of the Murray Barracks Clinic, highlighted the growing impact of non-communicable diseases and cervical cancer on women in Papua New Guinea.Sr Mosh described cervical cancer as one of the leading cancers affecting women in the country, noting that many cases are detected at an advanced stage when treatment options become more limited.She told participants that cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern in Papua New Guinea, with hundreds of women losing their lives to the disease each year.The presentation explained that persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV, is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Other risk factors include smoking, weakened immunity, multiple sexual partners, and a lack of regular screening.Women were informed that symptoms may include abnormal bleeding, bleeding after intercourse, pelvic pain and unusual discharge, although early stages of the disease often show no warning signs.For this reason, participants were encouraged to undergo regular cervical screening tests and seek medical advice promptly if they experience any concerning symptoms.The session also highlighted the growing burden of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity, stroke, heart disease and high blood pressure, which continue to affect many families across the country.Health survey findings from Murray Barracks conducted in 2022 revealed concerning levels of obesity and high blood pressure among women who participated in health checks, underscoring the need for greater awareness and prevention efforts.Military wives were encouraged to adopt healthier lifestyles by increasing their intake of fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, exercising regularly and reducing their consumption of foods high in salt, sugar and fat.Ms. Mosh emphasised that prevention and early detection remain the most effective tools in reducing the impact of both cervical cancer and lifestyle-related diseases.The presentation ended with a call for women to take ownership of their health, support one another and become advocates for regular health screening and healthy living within their families and communities.“Choose health, choose hope and choose life,” participants were told as the session concluded.

Understanding when and how to seek help was a key message delivered to military wives during a Family Sexual Violence Awareness Program held as part of the 9th Biannual Military Wives Convention in Port Moresby.Officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's Family Sexual Violence Unit shared information on domestic violence, victims' rights and the support services available to those affected by abuse.Acting Director of the Family Sexual Violence Directorate, Chief Sergeant Job Eremugo and Deputy Director Senior Sergeant Wasima Kauvianda led the awareness session, outlining the role of the Family Sexual Violence Unit and the support mechanisms available to victims throughout the country.The officers explained that the unit was established in 2009 and now operates 54 Family Sexual Violence Units with 98 personnel stationed across Papua New Guinea's 22 provinces.Participants were informed that the unit receives and registers complaints, investigates cases, apprehends offenders, assists victims to obtain Interim Protection Orders, prepares court files and works closely with other agencies to ensure victims receive appropriate support and protection.The presentation highlighted that family and sexual violence can take many forms, including physical assault, verbal abuse, intimidation, threats and psychological abuse.Women attending the convention were reminded that victims are not limited to adult women, but also include children, the elderly, persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable members of society.FSVU officers stressed the importance of reporting incidents early and preserving evidence such as photographs of injuries, damaged property, clothing, and electronic communications that may assist investigations.Participants also learned about the reporting process, with Family Sexual Violence Units serving as the first point of contact for most family and sexual violence cases. Depending on the nature of the complaint, victims may be referred for medical treatment, legal assistance, counselling services or protection orders.The officers acknowledged that many victims continue to face challenges after reporting abuse, including intimidation by perpetrators, family pressure, and a lack of supportive environments.The session also examined the cycle of violence, including periods of tension, abuse, denial and reconciliation, which often make it difficult for victims to leave abusive relationships. Factors such as fear, financial dependence, family expectations and concern for children were identified as common reasons victims remain in violent situations.Military wives were encouraged to support one another, seek help when needed and use the information gained during the session to raise awareness within their families and communities.The awareness session forms part of the convention's broader focus on empowering military wives with knowledge and practical tools to strengthen families, promote safety and contribute to violence-free communities.

Military wives from across Papua New Guinea have been encouraged to place greater emphasis on their own health and wellbeing while continuing to support their families and communities.The message was delivered during a health awareness presentation at the 9th biennial Military Wives Convention currently underway in Port Moresby.Critical Care Nurse Specialist Sr. Nathalie Mosh from the Murray Barracks Clinic presented a session on empowering military wives to overcome stress, prevent lifestyle diseases and protect their overall health.Speaking to participants, Sr Mosh acknowledged the important role military wives play in supporting their spouses, raising children and maintaining strong family units within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force community.She said the demands of military life often place significant pressure on women, particularly during deployments, extended work commitments, financial challenges and family responsibilities.According to the presentation, prolonged and unmanaged stress can negatively affect mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing, contributing to conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and strained family relationships.Sr Mosh encouraged participants to recognise the signs of stress early, including fatigue, headaches, poor sleep, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.She outlined practical ways women can better manage stress, including maintaining regular prayer and devotion, engaging in physical exercise, getting adequate rest, eating nutritious foods and seeking support from trusted friends, family members or health professionals when needed.The session drew inspiration from the convention theme, “Arise Esthers! For Such a Time as This,” based on the biblical story of Queen Esther, whose courage, wisdom and resilience were highlighted as qualities military wives can emulate in their daily lives.Participants were reminded that caring for their own health is not only beneficial to them personally but also strengthens their ability to support their families and contribute positively to their communities.The presentation concluded with a call for military wives to rise above challenges, prioritise self-care and become role models for healthier living within their households and across the wider PNGDF family.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has stepped up its efforts to promote gender equality and family welfare through its Directorate of Gender, Peace and Security with a focus on creating safer and more inclusive environments for personnel and their families.Addressing participants at the 9th PNGDF Military Wives Convention at Murray Barracks, Director of Gender, Peace and Security Captain Imelda Divina highlighted the important role the directorate plays in supporting serving members and their families while enhancing the overall effectiveness of the force.Captain Divina said the PNGDF Gender Committee was established in 2016 to address policy gaps and improve support for servicewomen. Over the years, its role has expanded to include servicemen and defence families, recognising that strong and resilient families contribute to a stronger Defence Force.She said the directorate's work is guided by the National Constitution's principles of equality and participation, while also supporting national and international commitments on gender equality and women's participation in peace and security.Among its key priorities are improving policies, providing training and education, strengthening governance and reporting systems, and ensuring gender perspectives are integrated into military operations and decision-making processes.The directorate has also introduced a range of training programs, including Gender Sensitisation, Gender Focal Point and Gender Advisor courses, aimed at building awareness and strengthening leadership capacity throughout the force.Captain Divina also outlined several policies that have been developed or are currently being progressed, including policies on sexual harassment, parental leave, accommodation, grooming standards, fraternisation among members and unacceptable behaviour.A major focus of the directorate's work is the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence, both within the workplace and at home. Through awareness programs, policy reforms and partnerships with government agencies and support organisations, the PNGDF is working to create safer environments for its members and their families.Captain Divina said Gender, Peace and Security is not simply about increasing the number of women in the force but ensuring that both women and men are given equal opportunities to contribute, lead and participate in decision-making.She encouraged military families to continue supporting the initiatives being implemented across the PNGDF, adding that lasting change can only be achieved when everyone works together to create a more inclusive, respectful and effective Defence Force.

Mrs. Elvin Iramu, President of the Joint Forces Academy Military Wives Association, has called for stronger family support measures and improved reunion arrangements for serving personnel during the 9th Bi-annual Military Wives Convention currently underway in Port Moresby.Mrs. Iramu, whose husband serves as a Physical Training Instructor at the Joint Forces Academy, was among delegates presenting issues and recommendations on behalf of families living in Igam Barracks.She said the week-long convention has provided an important platform for military wives to share their experiences, raise matters affecting their families and contribute ideas that could help strengthen support systems within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.Mrs. Iramu said one of the most valuable aspects of the convention is the opportunity for military wives from different barracks across the country to meet and build lasting relationships."Our husbands often know each other because they have trained and served together throughout their careers, but as wives we rarely have the opportunity to meet and connect," she said.Mrs. Iramu said the convention allows women to establish support networks, share experiences and maintain communication with families from other military communities.Representing Igam Barracks, she highlighted the importance of reunion arrangements for personnel serving away from their families, particularly those attached to training institutions or deployed on operations for extended periods.She said maintaining strong family connections contributes positively to the wellbeing of both serving members and their loved ones and supports a stable home environment.Mrs. Iramu encouraged continued discussions on ways to strengthen reunion arrangements and family support initiatives, noting that military families play an important role in supporting personnel throughout their service.She said the convention provides a constructive avenue for military spouses to share recommendations and contribute to ongoing conversations about the welfare and wellbeing of Defence Force families.Mrs. Iramu also acknowledged the important role played by chaplains, commanding officers and Defence Force leaders in listening to the concerns and suggestions raised throughout the convention.She expressed hope that discussions and recommendations from this year's gathering would continue to contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening military communities and supporting families across the country.Faith and fellowship, she said, remain central to military family life and continue to provide encouragement and strength for women supporting serving members.Mrs. Iramu described being a military wife as both a privilege and a responsibility, saying the convention has empowered women to embrace leadership roles within their families and communities.She said the convention theme, "Arise Esthers: for Such a Time as This," serves as a reminder that military spouses have an important role to play in supporting their families, communities and the wider Defence Force.The Military Wives Convention continues throughout the week, bringing together more than 300 delegates from military units nationwide to discuss ways of strengthening support networks, promoting family wellbeing and enhancing the role of military spouses within the Defence Force community.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) could see a more inclusive approach to supporting military families in the future, with discussions emerging around expanding the Military Wives Convention to include spouses of all serving members.The idea was raised during the 9th Biennial Military Wives Convention currently underway at in Port Moresby this week, where more than 300 delegates from military units across the country have gathered for the week-long event.Licensed Officer Lieutenant Jasmine Numbuk said the convention has traditionally focused on wives of serving Defence Force members, but changing family dynamics within the organisation may require a broader approach in the years ahead.She noted that the Defence Force now has more women serving in uniform, with some married to civilian husbands who are also affected by military postings, deployments and the demands of Defence Force life.Lieutenant Numbuk said there is growing recognition that support programs should reflect the changing makeup of military families and provide opportunities for all spouses to participate in discussions that affect their lives.She said the convention's theme, "Arise Esthers for Such a Time as This," has encouraged participants to reflect on their roles not only as supporters of serving members, but also as leaders within their families and communities.For Lieutenant Numbuk, one of the most significant aspects of the convention has been witnessing women confidently share their experiences and contribute ideas that could help shape future policies within the Defence Force.As a female officer serving in a traditionally male-dominated institution, she said listening to military spouses has provided valuable insight into a different style of leadership centred on support, understanding and family wellbeing.She said military wives play an important role behind the scenes, helping serving members remain focused on their duties while managing responsibilities within the home and community.Throughout the week, delegates are participating in leadership discussions, faith-based activities and cultural programs that highlight the contribution military spouses make to the overall success of the Defence Force.Lieutenant Numbuk said the convention is not only about discussing current issues but also about preparing for the future by ensuring spouses have a stronger voice in conversations that affect military families.She added that recommendations from this year's gathering could help shape future conventions and strengthen recognition of the vital role spouses play in supporting the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.With participation continuing to grow, organisers believe the event will remain an important platform for leadership development, representation and inclusion within the wider Defence Force community.

More than 300 military wives and mothers from across Papua New Guinea have gathered in Port Moresby for the 9th Bi-annual Military Wives Convention for a week-long event aimed at strengthening support systems for Defence Force families and addressing issues affecting life within military communities.Hosted by the Force Support Battalion (FSB) Military Wives, the convention brings together women from various Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) units to discuss challenges, share experiences and contribute recommendations that could help improve the welfare of military families.Licensed Officer for the convention, Lieutenant Jasmine Numbuk, said the gathering provides a valuable opportunity for Defence Force dependents to voice concerns and participate in discussions that directly impact their lives.She said the convention serves as an important platform for understanding the realities faced by families living in barracks and allows Defence Force leadership to gain greater awareness of issues affecting dependents.Throughout the week, participants will engage in presentations, panel discussions and awareness sessions covering a range of topics including gender-based violence, mental health, family welfare, lifestyle diseases and administrative matters affecting military families.Lieutenant Numbuk said the planning process involved identifying key concerns within barracks communities and inviting organisations that could contribute to addressing those issues. These include health professionals, welfare agencies and specialists involved in domestic violence prevention and family support services.She explained that military wives often experience many of the same challenges and are in a unique position to provide practical recommendations on how those issues can be addressed.As part of the convention, surveys will be conducted among military wives, female soldiers and military couples to gather information from different perspectives. The findings will help ensure recommendations are evidence-based and reflect the needs of the wider military community.Lieutenant Numbuk said the Defence Force hopes to use the information collected to develop programs and strategies that promote stability within barracks and strengthen support systems for serving members and their families.She added that military spouses play a critical role in supporting Defence Force personnel and that understanding their experiences is essential to maintaining strong and resilient military communities.The convention will conclude later this week with delegates presenting recommendations that will be submitted to Defence Force leadership for consideration.

The Uni Piggies Rugby Football Club produced a solid performance in Round 9 of the Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition, with the club's A Grade side leading the way with a convincing 22-10 victory over Defence on Saturday.The senior side delivered a disciplined and determined display throughout the match, controlling key periods of play and capitalising on scoring opportunities to secure the 12-point win. The result adds valuable competition points to Uni Piggies' campaign as they continue to push for a strong finish to the season.The day began with the Under-20 clash at Field 1, where Defence narrowly defeated Uni Piggies 3-0 in a closely contested encounter. Despite creating opportunities, the young Piggies side was unable to break through a resilient Defence outfit.In the Under-23 match, Uni Piggies put up a spirited effort but fell short, going down 5-3. The match remained competitive from start to finish, with both teams battling hard for possession and territory.While the junior grades were unable to secure victories, the A Grade side ensured the club ended the day on a positive note. Their strong attacking play and defensive commitment proved too much for Defence, allowing Uni Piggies to claim an important win in front of their supporters.The mixed results see Uni Piggies take one win from three matches against Defence in Round 9, with the club now turning its focus to the next round of the CRU competition as they look to build momentum in the weeks ahead.

The Kulumata Circuit in Port Moresby city is strengthening its focus on youth development by encouraging young people to take active roles in church leadership and activities.Vice Chairman David James said youths are being mentored and given opportunities to organise and lead church programs as part of ongoing leadership development.He also confirmed that the circuit is sponsoring youths to attend an upcoming youth convention, with participants currently preparing and camping ahead of the event scheduled for later this month.Mr. James said the initiative is part of a broader effort to build capacity among young people within the church.“We encourage them to be part of leadership and take the lead in organising activities. Most of the organisers you see here are youth leaders. We are mentoring them and allowing them to lead,” he said.The circuit says youth engagement remains a key priority alongside its church development programs.