During the recent visit of United Nations Secretary General, His Excellency António Guterres to Papua New Guinea this week, The United Nations Secretary-General has reaffirmed UN’s support to both parties of the Bougainville Peace Agreement between Papua New Guinea and Bougainville. The United Nations Secretary-General thanked the leadership of the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government, for the opportunity to discuss the Bougainville peace process during his visit to Papua New Guinea. The Secretary-General informed the leaders that the United Nations is proud to walk this journey with both Papua New Guinea government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government as they have done for over 24 years. “You have shown the world the path of healing, through dialogue, perseverance, and mutual respect.” The Secretary-General said the Melanesian Agreement, signed in June, exemplifies both parties’ willingness to engage in the difficult conversations and that the United Nations remains committed to supporting both parties as jointly requested by the two governments. “The United Nations is a neutral partner to the process and remains committed to supporting both parties equally in the implementation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the Melanesian Agreement, in achieving a lasting peace.”

Air Niugini is proud to announce that Captains Joachim Ortlauf, Captain Paul Lohia and First Officer (FO) Alipate Vasutoga, have all successfully completed their Airbus A220 type rating training at the world-class Airbus facility in Mirabel, Canada. Their achievement brings the total number of A220-qualified Air Niugini pilots to seven, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet modernization journey. Two additional groups are currently going through their training in Montreal and are expected to conclude their trainings by the end of September. With six more courses planned for the remainder of the year, Air Niugini anticipates having 25 fully trained A220 pilots by year-end. The training momentum will continue into 2026, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified pilots ready to operate the new fleet. The A220 pilot training program in Mirabel is conducted at Airbus’s cutting-edge facility, which offers advanced full-flight simulators, immersive classroom instruction, and scenario-based operational training. These resources ensure that pilots are equipped to handle the technologically sophisticated A220 aircraft with precision and confidence. Air Niugini has taken a proactive and strategic approach to preparing its workforce for the arrival of the A220. Beyond pilot training, the airline has partnered with Airbus Beyond to deliver specialized programs for engineers, cabin crew, and ground staff, thus these initiatives include immersive simulations and leadership development courses aimed at building a future-ready aviation workforce across Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini’s Officer in Charge (OIC) and Acting Chief Operating Officer, Captain Samiu Taufa, MBE highlighted that the A220 is more than just a new addition to Air Niuginis fleet. “It is our first brand-new, next-generation jet aircraft and captures the spirit of our nation and our aspirations for the future.” “The training of our pilots and staff reflects our commitment to safety, excellence, and delivering world-class service to our customers.” The arrival of the first A220 aircraft, registered P2-PGA and affectionately dubbed the “People’s Balus,” is scheduled for 15 September 2025—perfectly timed to coincide with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. “The delivery flight will operate from Montreal to Vancouver, then Honolulu, Nadi, and finally Port Moresby, symbolizing a new era of flying and pride for our nation.” The A220’s introduction is not only a technological upgrade but a transformative moment for Papua New Guinea’s aviation sector. “With its fuel efficiency, reduced noise footprint, and enhanced passenger comfort, the aircraft will elevate domestic and regional travel experiences, for Air Niugini, it represents a leap forward in operational capability and service excellence.”

The much-anticipated Central City Project within the Central Province will soon take shape following an approval of K27million funding allocation for the Central City development. The long-awaited dream of giving Central Province its own identity took a major step forward with the first drawdown of K10, 000 from the Central Provincial Central City Trust Fund under the leadership of Central Provincial Member Rufina Peter, marking the beginning of the much-anticipated Central City project. “For so long, Central has not had a face, and I want to leave a legacy where Central has a face,” said proud Walis Imbal, Provincial Financial Manager, who was instrumental in advocating for and securing the release of the funds. Speaking at a small ceremony attended by representatives from Finance and National Planning, Imbal recalled the history of the trust fund stating that the funds remained dormant and unused, therefore a new trust deed had to be issued by Finance for funding to be avail. “We then worked very closely with the Acting Provincial Administrator, the Governor, and the Finance Department, and we are glad Finance Secretary approved for the access of the K27 Million specially for Central City development. Deputy Finance Secretary Tom Tiki who spoke on behalf of the Finance secretary at the approval of funds stated that the Finance Secretary, made emphasis on two major projects for Central Province—the Central City and the Central Hospital. “He also stressed the need to utilize funds sitting in trust accounts, not leave them idle, because across provinces, K2 to K3 billion remains unused in trust accounts at the sub national level, this money needs to be spent,” Tiki said. Acting Provincial Administrator Edward Kila also voiced his concern, calling on the administration to rally behind the Governor. “Money has sat there for over fifteen years, and nothing has resulted, let’s use the funds for the purpose intended,” Kila said. Governor Rufina Peter revealed that one of her first tasks upon taking office in 2022 was to investigate the status of Central City. “I knew from my days in National Planning that there was a trust account with funds parked there, so when I came in, I wrote quickly to Planning because K300,000 was outstanding to Snowy Mountain Engineering (SME) Company for an independent assessment of the Bautama site.” “Despite writing three times with no response, we eventually funded the payment through Provincial Executive Council (PEC), once paid, Snowy Moutain Engineering released the report,” Governor Peter explained. The independent assessment revealed that only a third of the land at Bautama is suitable for development, with most of the land being hilly and requiring costly flattening said Governor Rufina. “As a result, PEC prioritized 50 hectares for the Central Provincial Hospital, while the Provincial Market structure, initiated under the previous government, already occupies another prime section of flat land”. “With much of Bautama’s flat terrain taken up by these key projects, PEC has endorsed relocating the new seat of Government to Sabusa, along the Hiritano Highway.” The drawdown of the K10,000 is for Stationers and represents not just the start of physical works again but also a renewed commitment to giving Central Province a face and a legacy through infrastructure that will serve its people for generations.

Police in Port Moresby city have busted an illegal operation of manufacturing rugby league merchandise after conducting an investigation over the weekend on Sunday 31st August. The investigation was conducted by the National Fraud and Anti Corruption Directorate (NFACD), following a tip off after it was discovered that certain shops at Erima were selling fake merchandise to customers During the raid police confiscated large quantities of fake Mendi Muruks Rugby League Club merchandise which were illegally produced and sold for profit. During the raid, five (5) Chinese nationals and two (2) Myanmar nationals were apprehended and taken to the NAFCD office for questioning. Police say further investigations are ongoing, and more arrests may follow as authorities crack down hard on counterfeit goods and the exploitation of PNG Sporting Brands.

The 11th Edition of the Standard Treatment for Common Illnesses of Children of Papua New Guinea was launched recently in the country, a cornerstone of child healthcare guidance since the country’s independence in 1975. During the launching, representatives from the Australian High Commission were delighted to join the Pediatric Society of Papua New Guinea (PSPNG) to launch the 11th edition of The Standard Treatment for Common Illnesses of Children in Papua New Guinea. Published every five years, the book is authored by pediatricians and medical specialists with deep, first-hand knowledge of Papua New Guinea’s health landscape. It provides practical, evidence-based guidance for diagnosing and treating common childhood illnesses, managing emergencies, and promoting preventive care. The book is widely used across the health system from remote aid posts to busy provincial hospitals and plays a critical role in improving child health outcomes. As part of Australia’s longstanding commitment to improving health outcomes for the people of PNG, 30,000 copies of the new edition have been printed and will be distributed nationwide soon. More than just a manual, the 11th edition of The Standard Treatment for Common Illnesses of Children in Papua New Guinea reflects a commitment to locally informed, evidence-based healthcare. “Every child in Papua New Guinea has the right to healthcare yet reaching them across rural and peri-urban communities remains a great challenge,” said Dr. James Amini, President of PSPNG. Dr Amini highlighted that most child deaths are preventable with early diagnosis and simple treatments. “The Standard Treatment Book, now in its 11th edition, equips health workers with the guidance they need to deliver these life-saving interventions.” At the meantime, Australia is proud to support frontline health workers to ensure effective care for children across Papua New Guinea.

Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Choules has arrived in Port Moresby over the weekend on Saturday 30th August 2025, with Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel ready to assist the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) as they prepare to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Independence. The ADF support Operation codenamed “WANTAIM”, commemorates the strong defence relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia. Choules will remain in Port Moresby until mid-September, providing accommodation and real-life support for pacific partners from Fiji, New Zealand, Tonga and Vanuatu who are taking part in PNGDF Week and PNG 50th celebrations. Choules will be participating in the Public Open Day for ship visits on Tuesday 02 September, while a second Royal Australian Navy Ship, HMAS Childers will join in the Multinational Fleet Review on Thursday 4th September. Led by the PNGDF, the ADF will also contribute personnel from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force to ceremonial and celebratory events including air shows, ceremonial drill and artillery displays and military bands. Lead Maritime Planner for the PNGDF’s Joint Taskforce (JTF-50), Lieutenant Commander Laijah Anthony, said the 50th anniversary of independence celebrations is important for the PNGDF and for the people of Papua New Guinea. “We are working hard with our Australian counterparts, and we thank them for their support,” JTF-50 LCDR Anthony said. Commander of the ADF contingent, Australian Army Lieutenant Colonel Simon Frewin said the ADF is honored to be in Port Moresby and is ready to support. “The ADF is proud to have been invited to join PNG independence celebrations under Operation WANTAIM,” he said. “Our contribution to PNG 50 celebrations is testament to the deep friendship and partnership between our two militaries, which is constantly increasing in breadth and integration,” Lieutenant Colonel Frewin said. Led by the PNGDF, the ADF are supporting the planning and delivery of PNGDF Week events: • Public Open Day for Ship Visits • Multinational Fleet Review • Naval ‘Freedom of Port Moresby’ March • Military Tattoo and Cultural Presentations • Air Show at Ela Beach • Static Air Display

Four successful finalists from Season 12 of Vocal Fusion Competition have been awarded leadership certificates today by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation, a program facilitated by the PNG Tribal Foundation at The Cosmopolitan in Port Moresby. The contestants who are Judith Vanegmond (the only female among the top contestants), Michael Mikis, Race Kora, and Anthony Hau’ofa, were four remaining in the competition out from the 21 contestants who joined and have successfully completed the leadership training as certified table facilitators. They expressed enthusiasm and a strong commitment to begin leading table sessions in their homes, communities, and peer groups, with the aim of promoting positive values and leadership. Ms. Lavinia Williams, Vocal Fusion Manager and the judge leading the season 12, said the four finalists are also preparing themselves for the season finale this Sunday at the Cosmopolitan. The leadership program aims not only to develop individuals, but also to equip them to become role models and positive influencers within their families, peer circles, and the wider community. “The involvement of the contestants brings greater visibility to the importance of leadership among young people across the country, many of whom follow the popular singing competition.” She said their participation will venture beyond leadership and personal growth including entertainment. Meanwhile, Senisim PNG National Coordinator, Phillie Marai, highlighted the Tribal Foundation’s belief that when individuals grow in leadership and values, their whole communities’ benefit. “We are proud of these young artists for stepping up.” “Your commitment has paid off and led to personal growth, both as individuals and as leaders in your own spaces.” “As new facilitators, go out there and influence the people around your communities.” In addition, finalist Anthony Hau’ofa reflected on the impact of the training sessions. “We know values, but we don’t always practice them, and sitting in the sessions really helped us in our lives and in how we see things around us.” “Now we are practicing these values every day.” Hau’ofa has also expressed gratitude to the PNG Tribal Foundation for selecting them and also in helping them to transform their lives.

Six trainers specialized in dance, acrobatics, yoga, and kung fu completed an 11-week table session program and were awarded leadership certificates from the PNG Tribal Foundation under the Senisim PNG Program this week. The program, delivered under the Active City Development Program (ACDP), was a behaviour change initiative that integrates physical activity with leadership development. It is aimed to strengthen the participants’ leadership capacity while promoting healthy living. Active City Development Program lead, Ezra Adino, said that as part of their role, the trainers led participants through structured physical activities, using movement not only as a means of fitness but also as a tool to inspire discipline, teamwork, and positive habits. “Each participant walked away with valuable insights, shaped by their individual personalities and leadership journeys.” “A core message that resonated with all was the importance of leading by example.” He added that the training emphasized the impact of consistent, values-based leadership in influencing both individuals and communities. The Senisim PNG Program, focused on personal transformation, will now support the continued good work of these participants within the Active City Development Program (ACDP) through community engagement. Participants are now encouraged to apply what they have learned in their daily lives and take initiative in leading table discussions. In addition, the leadership training is part of a broader effort by the Active City Development Program to foster healthier, more empowered communities across Port Moresby through fitness, education, and civic participation. The Active City Development Program (ACDP) is a non-profit initiative by the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), launched in 2016 to make Port Moresby a healthier, cleaner, and safer city. It uses free, inclusive physical and creative activities like yoga, walking, dance, drama, and martial arts to engage communities, especially youth and marginalized groups. Moreover, ACDP promotes health, peace, social inclusion, and personal empowerment, while also addressing education, the environment, and employment. Its goal is to build a united, active, and responsible city through community participation.

Tribal Foundation continues to stand as an icon of hope for many Sorcery Accusation victims in Papua New Guinea, especially in the Highlands region and for Simbu Province, it has been one of the provinces that Tribal Foundation continues to address Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV). This year since the month of June to this day, Tribal Foundation has supported and provided food rations for more that 100 SARV survivors and victims. This is part of a program called “Feeding Survivors” under PNG Tribal Foundation, whereby survivors who are displaced within their own traditional land, who lost homes, food gardens and live stocks through SARV are taken care of by Tribal Foundation. The Feeding survivor program is especially in done in the Highlands Region and Morobe Province. PNG Tribal Foundation President GT Bustin confirmed that about 187 survivors from Sinesine Yongomugl, Gumine, Kundiawa and Kerowagi in Simbu were placed under this program from June to August this month. In Jiwaka Province, more than fifteen people who were survivors of a long-time SARV Case which is still in court including survivors in Pangia, Southern Highlands were also placed under given food rations to support their livelihood. Mr. Bustin highlighted that Tribal Foundation continues to support victims despite minimum support from the government. “Tribal Foundation also needs government support to continue its work in rescuing SARV survivors and victims, physical support, as well as legal support for police and courts to see more prosecutions in the country.” Meanwhile, Tribal Foundation has recorded and dealt with 38 SARV Cases, as well as 128 arrests, nine prosecutions, thirty currently under internal investigation unit (IIU) for investigations in illegal release of suspects in cells, 64 committed to National Court and fourteen in the district from 2023-2025.

The Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) and Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) are currently visiting Aotearoa New Zealand. Their visit started last Saturday 23rd August and will end on Saturday 30th August 2025, and the purpose of the visit is to learn more about climate-resilient infrastructure. The learning exchange programme comes as Papua New Guinea (PNG) prepares to mark 50 years of independence on 16 September 2025. Improving road transport is a priority for Papua New Guinea’s economic growth and development, with limited road connections outside the main cities of Port Moresby and Lae. Many of the country’s roads are exposed to climate-related hazards such as flooding, landslides, and sea-level rise, and in overall, PNG is ranked 89th out of 139 for infrastructure in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index. This visit is part of the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States programme, a global initiative funded by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. The IRIS PNG programme is implemented by Global Green Growth Initiative and DoWH with support from GHD, a global professional services company. During their visit to New Zealand, PNG officials will learn from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, councils, the National Emergency Management Agency and mana whenua about how climate risk and resilience are embedded in infrastructure planning and investment. The delegation is set to visit Waikato region, including learning about the recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle to gather practical insights to help them implement PNG’s recently developed Climate Change Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Framework. Kenneth Yamu, DoWH ESG Assistant Secretary says, “Our team comprised of DoWH, CCDA, TSSP and GGGI will be travelling to New Zealand for the South-South Exchange and Knowledge Exchange with town councils to visit climate resilient project sites to learn and integrate climate resilience into road infrastructure development in PNG.” “We want to see the DoWH construct climate resilient infrastructure by 2030 that can withstand the extreme weather patterns; thus, this will require teamwork by improving knowledge and skills for our technical staff in DoWH to make collective and inclusive decisions that will benefit our people.” Muhammad Ali Shaikh, Country Representative of GGGI PNG says “This exchange offers Papua New Guinea a valuable opportunity to learn directly from New Zealand’s experience in embedding climate resilience into infrastructure systems.” “As we prepare to mark 50 years of independence, strengthening our road networks and transport systems against climate risks is not just a technical necessity but a foundation for sustainable economic growth and community well-being.” Mr. Shaikh added that the lessons from New Zealand will help Papua New Guinea to apply it to PNG’s Climate Change, Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Framework in a way that is practical, inclusive, and scalable across Papua New Guinea. Mr. Stephen Douglass, GHD Market Lead Environment and Communities for NZ Pacific also added that the learning exchange will present how New Zealand manages interconnected climate risks — a direct analogue for the challenges facing Papua New Guinea. “It focuses on community development and sits within a wider programme to build capacity for climate-resilient, context-appropriate infrastructure prioritization, delivering lasting community benefits directly transferable to Papua New Guinea.”

The Marape Rosso Government has made a commitment to priorities the settlement to suburb project. Speaking at the recent launching of Government lease land titles to the Moresby Northeast District, Prime Minister James Marape stated that the Marape Rosso Government, under Pangu party has pledged to work in partnership with National Capital District and the three District office in Port Moresby to turn all settlements into suburbs. “Starting next year and for the next 3-4 years until 2030, the Pangu Government will prioritize on converting all settlements to suburbs,” said Prime Minister Marape. “One settlement at a time until all settlements are upgraded to suburbs.” PM Marape stated also that funding and resources will be made available and allocated for all settlement to suburb project areas until it is fully achieved. Marape added that under the settlement to suburb program, priority will be given to genuine residents who have lived in the Nation’s Capital for 2-3 generations and considered the Nation’s Capital as their home. “Those who have lived for generations will be given priority to be block holders, and not those that just arrived in Port Moresby recently due to tribal conflict or any other reasons.” Marape further added that such project is a major exercise, thus it needs cooperation from the government as well as the settlers, as law and order is crucial to archive a better outcome of the project. Prime Minister Marape urges all residents of Port Moresby to uphold law and order at all times and to also respect the original landowners of the Nation's Capital, the Koiari People, Motu Koita people and the whole Central Province people. “Bring your tribal fights home, no tribal fight should happen in the city, this is the capital, respecting the rule of law is vital.” “Everyone is asked to respect any business happening near your area, this is service and employment for you.” Marape also urged all people to refrain from illegal settling, and illegal selling and buying of land. “Hopefully by the year 2030 all settlements should be transformed into suburbs, not only in Port Moresby but also for Lae, Mt Hagen and other major centres.”

​Police in the Chuave District of Simbu Province have launched an investigation into the murder of a Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church elder, who was accused of sorcery in Kue village in West Elimbari, before his brutal killing. ​The attack occurred on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. A group of people accused the church elder, who was in his mid-40s, of using sorcery to cause the death of a fellow clansman. ​Constable Gabriel Suka, the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Officer in Charge, confirmed that a formal investigation began last week after the PNG Tribal Foundation assisted local police with their inquiries. ​Constable Suka noted that while no formal complaint was filed at the station, the police became aware of the incident through social media posts. “We are grateful to the PNG Tribal Foundation for stepping in to assist.” “The area is extremely remote, and responding to incidents like this is often logistically difficult and expensive.” ​A major incident report has been submitted to the Provincial Police Commander's office in Simbu. At this time, the suspects have not been identified, and police are asking the community for any information that could lead to their arrest. The killing highlights the persistent issue of sorcery-related violence in remote parts of Papua New Guinea, particularly in the Highlands. A combination of traditional beliefs and limited access to the justice system can often lead to tragic outcomes. ​Furthermore, police are urging the people to avoid taking the law into their own hands and to report any suspected crimes directly to the authorities.