Oro Governor Garry Juffa during question time in parliament this week raised concerns surrounding social media usage by content creators and the need to monetize social media platforms in the country. Governor Juffa stated that large number of people who are engaging in creating contents on social media platforms are young people and they make about 60% of the online users, unfortunately they are not able to benefit from this growing industry that is benefitting many throughout the world. “This Content creators create amazing contents that promotes Papua New Guinea that can attract tourists and investment and that can also give the world a better picture of this country.” “Social media content creators coming in from other parts of the world to Papua New Guinea and creating contents and are benefitting from it, but our own cannot do so,” Governor Juffa reaffirms. Juffa said local content creates are not benefitting from what they are doing, and this is most likely because of outdated laws and non-existence laws or mechanism that are not in place to allow creators to monetize their social media contents they created. Governor Juffa asked the Acting Minister for Communication and Information, Peter Tsaumalili Junior, that if the Marape Rosso Government have any plans to address these challenges and issues so that it can assist local content creators to generate an income or revenue, especially for the youths who formed large part of the demography? In responds, the Acting Minister for Communication and Information assured all youths and others using the social media space as content creators that apart from the legislative reforms that the department of ICT is working towards to enable that environment, there is also a need to understand the volatile space in which social media is used. Minister Tsiamalili added that it is also seen as imminent threat that not only speaks to the internal challenges in the social media space, but also the external that imposes on sovereignty in terms of the space social media platform is using. “Enabling effective electronic transactions is not the responsibility of one agent alone, it requires a multifaceted government approach involving coordination between ministry of Justice, Ministry of Police, Ministry of Treasury, and the Ministry for ICT.” Specifically, four critical areas must be addressed. Cyber security Data Governance and Protection Cyber Crime Investigation and Enforcement Anti Money Laundering, AML and counter terrorism financing “On the matter cyber security, I am pleased to say that PNG has a national cybersecurity policy framework in place, endorsed by cabinet in 2021. This framework is referred to as a National of 202.” Following this the department of ICT established a national security center which currently monitors over 75 government agency networks and systems. In 2024 cabinet endorsed the National Cyber Security Strategy calling for the establishment of an emergency response framework across critical infrastructure sectors such as water, energy and banking. To operationalize the strategy, in December 2024 the Ministry for ICT did a direct and national information and communication technology authority to develop a regulatory framework for cyber security. “I can confirm that drafting instructions have now been completed, and I have instructed the legislation to be brought before the Parliament in the September seating.” On the matter of data, governance and protection, last year the department of ICT also facilitated development and the subsequent cabinet endorsement for national data governance and protection policy said Tsiamalili. “This government is working to ensure that you do monetize your contents on social media. This is to ensure that the environment in which all this is happening in social media amongst our young men and women and everyone using social media, is protected." “You have the independence to express yourself, but it is within a framework of governance and legal framework that you can monetize your work as a social media creator or an influencer.”

Prime Minister James Marape has hailed the official visit of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon as a historic and defining moment in the bilateral relations between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, reaffirming a shared commitment to peace, prosperity, and Pacific solidarity. Prime Minister Luxon today became the first New Zealand Prime Minister and only the second foreign leader in history to address the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea, joining Australian Prime Minister Hon. Anthony Albanese who addressed Parliament in 2023. Welcoming Prime Minister Luxon and his delegation to Parliament House at Waigani, Prime Minister Marape described the visit as a “powerful reaffirmation of a friendship rooted in integrity, trust, and shared Pacific values.” “Today, we do not just welcome a neighbor — we welcome a family member,” Prime Minister Marape said. “New Zealand stood with us in 1975 when we gained Independence and has walked alongside us for the last fifty years.” “This visit renews that vow of partnership and positions us to move forward together for the next fifty years.” PM Marape also paid tribute to New Zealand’s longstanding role in PNG’s development — from supporting the formation of PNG’s civil service and health and education sectors to playing a vital peace-building role during the Bougainville Crisis and following the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001. He highlighted the Papua New Guinea–New Zealand Statement of Partnership 2025–2029, launched earlier this year during his State Visit to Wellington, as a bold and strategic framework to deepen cooperation across five key pillars: · Political and regional collaboration · Economic and trade engagement · Education and labor mobility · Peace and security, particularly Bougainville · Climate action and environmental resilience “This partnership is not built on aid or handouts,” said PM Marape. “It is built on mutual respect and a shared vision for transforming lives, uplifting communities, and creating opportunity for the next generation.” PM Marape and PM Luxon will hold bilateral to progress specific initiatives that align with PNG’s 50-year development vision, including: · Expanding New Zealand’s Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme to include over 10,000 Papua New Guinean workers, including skilled labor pathways. · Increasing New Zealand business investment in agriculture, infrastructure, and energy in PNG. · Boosting vocational training and youth employment opportunities. · Supporting peaceful dialogue and implementation of the Melanesian Agreement on Bougainville · Scaling up climate resilience efforts and renewable energy cooperation. Prime Minister Marape also acknowledged key people-to-people connections, including thousands of New Zealanders living and working in PNG and the growing Papua New Guinean diaspora in New Zealand. “Students, teachers, professionals and families making both nations stronger.” The Prime Minister emphasized the critical role both countries must play in shaping the Pacific’s future amid growing global competition. “In a world of turbulence, we seek friends who lead not through might, but through right — and New Zealand is such a friend,” he said. “Our unity as Pacific nations is more important than ever.” He noted that New Zealand’s support in defence, climate diplomacy, and regional leadership continues to be instrumental in advancing shared priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. “We are committed to stand together — to protect our oceans, defend our democracies, and ensure no Pacific child is left behind.” Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed PNG’s confidence in a brighter shared future with New Zealand. “Let it be said that the PNG–New Zealand relationship is not just transactional — it is transformational. Together, we are building something that transcends politics — a legacy of peace, purpose, and Pacific partnership.” “May the bond between our peoples deepen. May the mountains of PNG and the shores of Aotearoa rise together. And may the next 50 years be a testament to what we can achieve — side by side, wantok to wantok.”

New Zealand Prime Minister His Excellency Christopher Luxon on the first day of his three days official visit to Papua New Guinea addressed the National Parliament this morning, Tuesday 05th August 2025. Before his address he showed acknowledgement to the Motu Koita People, who are traditional custodians of the Port Moresby. Prime Minister Luxon also sent best wishes on behalf of the people of New Zealand to all the people of PNG on the upcoming 50th Anniversary of Independence, congratulating the country for reaching 50 years of Golden Jubilee. PM Luxon also acknowledged the Parliament for granting him the privileged to address the parliament today, stating his is honored to be the first ever Prime Minister of New Zealand to speak in PNG’s chamber. In his address, PM Luxon emphasized on New Zeeland’s presence since the World War two, were many fought to defend PNG and died alongside many Papua New Guineans too and today many New Zealand’s soldiers’ lye in PNG soil at Bomana War Cemetery. Even during the post war period, New Zealanders have come back to PNG and supported PNG through until independence and the relations continues until today. Since PNG’s Independence, seven (7) NZ Prime Ministers have visited PNG and Prime Minister Luxon is honored to be the 8th NZ Prime Minister on PNG soil. PM Luxon emphasized on strengthening bilateral ties and partnerships between the two countries, marking the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea's independence as well as 50 years of diplomatic relations between the nations. He also pointed out that NZ helped to play facilitative role to help the Bougainvilleans find the truth amongst themselves and with PNG. “We continue to work alongside both governments as you jointly sync mutually agreed way forward.” Luxon also highlighted New Zealand's longstanding support for PNG since its independence, especially in areas such as education, development assistance, and peacebuilding efforts with Bougainville, fresh produce area, business space for unlocking economic growth, electrification partnership, defence and security corporation and many more. PM Luxon further added that today PNG plays a critical leadership role in the Regional Architecture, where it must work together with all Pacific Island forum members. PM Luxon also emphasized that Australia who has been an indispensable partner to both nations, is a fellow pacific country that engages in significant scale here and throughout the region in support of Pacific priorities. “There is more that the three of us can do together and in concept with other pacific countries to ensure continued peace and prosperity and to deliver on our collective ambition under the 2050 strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.” “We can work more closely together on regional and global issues, at the time of turbulence, it is up to us to create and defend the region that we want and to influence the world that we want to live in.” “I hope for the next 50 years, when my successor comes, for the sentinel celebrations, he/she will be able to look back at our partnership that has continued to go beyond the handshake and will continue to invest in each other's success.” Thus, this visit will include bilateral discussions on trade, climate resilience, labour mobility, infrastructure development, as well as regional security. The visit is aimed to deepen people-to-people links, government partnerships, and economic collaboration, reflecting a commitment to advancing regional solidarity and cooperation in the Pacific over the next 50 years. “Ultimately, the strength of our partnership lies not only in governance, but with the people and it has strengthened, and friendship are forged, challenges are identified and faced down together.” The Prime Minister reiterated that New Zealand has committed to continue work with PNG on shared beliefs to create a brighter future for both countries.

About fifteen (15) suspects allegedly involved in death of a policeman and destruction of nine houses, two trade store, coffee gardens and livestock are still walking around freely in the communities. Minj Police Station, CID Officer in Charge, Senior Sergent James Kami said manpower is one of the biggest challenges when dealing with such serious criminal cases, thus it is not easy for police to approach suspects easily up in the Highlands Region. To do an arrest requires more, it involves not just manpower but, preparations of warrants, logistics, greater risks plus it is important for police man to have a good working relationship with community leaders. If there is relationship between police and the communities as wells as their leaders then it becomes easier for the community to assist police in their investigations, often leading to suspects surrendering to community leaders and accepting arrests. “We need to fight hard to get what we need to fully equip ourselves before attending to such cases and making arrests,” Snr Sgt Kami said. Snr Sgt Kami said one of the main suspects was arrested in May and was charged with wilful murder and arson currently detained at Barawagi Prison in simbu, whilst the other remanded files were served last Friday to prosecutor for further legal processes. He said investigations continues with help and support from PNG Tribal Foundation with stationary printings, fuel and police operation over a period now. The 15 suspects who are still at large were allegedly involved in the killing of a late policeman Gabriel Kolim, from Jiwaka Province, in the Western Highlands in August of 2015. The deceased was falsely accused of sorcery, and his death led to retaliation by his family members, resulting in the destruction of nine homes, livestock, and gardens. Jiwaka Provincial Police Commander acting superintendent Laimo Asi said last week he is aware of SARV cases and police will continue to investigate and make arrests.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) PNG is excited to announce its support as Diamond Sponsor and Official Non-Alcoholic Beverage Partner for the 31st Enga Show that is set to take place on 8th to 10th August 2025. A cheque of K100,000 was presented by CCEP PNG’s Regional Sales Manager – Highlands, Guthridge Songan, to the Enga Show Committee on Wednesday, 30th July 2025, including 200 cartons of assorted Coca-Cola products and 150 Coca-Cola shirts to further support the event. CCEP PNG’s Sales and Commercials Director Tim Solly highlighted that the CCEP is delighted to support for the third consecutive year, and CCEP believes in preserving the unique Engan culture for the next generation to enjoy. “Our contribution is more than a sponsorship; it’s about uplifting the community and creating lasting memories for families and friends to cherish.” “We are bringing the fun to Enga! Come check out our Share a Coke and Fanta Wanta activities, sip some BU, be part of our fun games, and win some Coca-Cola goodies.” Enga Show Committee Chair Lady, Margaret Potane, thanked CCEP for the sponsorship and that they are grateful to CCEP for choosing to support Enga Show for the third year as Diamond sponsor. “We know you a strong supporter when it comes to cultural events, your sponsorship demonstrates that you value our culture, our people, and the spirit of unity this show represents,” Margaret added. More than 5000 spectators are expected over the three-day show at the Johnson Siki Oval in Wabag town. Visitors can look forward to spectacular traditional dances, unique, black-painted faces and headdresses, and a vibrant display of local crafts and produce. But as locals will tell you, this only scratches the surface of Enga’s true beauty. Coca-Cola prides itself in partnering with the Enga Show and continues to sponsor other notable provincial shows such as the National Mask and Warwagira Festival, the Goroka Show, and the Morobe Agriculture Show.

One of the main suspects who was involved in the torture of an elderly man, destruction of properties and livestock as well as the burning down of 13 houses back in year 2023 in Kombumogo village in Kerowagi District was re-arrested on Tuesday. The violence, which erupted following the death of a man believed to be linked to sorcery-accusation related violence, led to widespread destruction. Eight suspects were arrested and charged with wilful murder and arson in relation to the incident. PNG Tribal Foundation President, GT Bustin said the case is one of the many ongoing sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) cases the Foundation has been supporting. “This is about ensuring justice is served to those who continue to accuse innocent people and destroy lives and property.” The suspect, who had already been arrested and charged, failed to appear in court for several months until a bench warrant was issued by the National Court last week, leading to his re-arrest by police on Tuesday. He is currently in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon. “Tribal Foundation had to fund the re-arrest of several perpetrators who have been let out on bail, including some who were involved in murder on various incidents that should not have been let out on bail in different cases.” According to the Foundation’s records, three of the suspects are remanded in Barawagi Prison, while five are out on bail and attending court hearings.

The inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) is a priority across all projects funded by the Australian and New Zealand Governments, and this is to ensure widespread access to services and increased opportunities for PWDs to earn an income and contribute to the economy. As part of the effort to build capacity around service delivery within the disability sector, Callan Connect was established to support the Callan Services Network for Persons with Disabilities (CSNU), the largest disability service provider in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Callan Connect is an initiative funded through the Australia Papua New Guinea Subnational Program (APSP) to coordinate with development partners, the government, and church agencies to address gaps in the health sector, with its outreach programs primarily focused on persons with disabilities. Earlier this year, Callan Connect visited Malasang in North Bougainville to conduct screenings for Persons with Disabilities (PWD), the screenings focused on individuals with visual impairments, utilising the U-SEE device –a tool used to determine the correct prescription for eyewear. With the U-SEE device, the process is simple, and the patient selects their own prescription. Across three site visits, more than 225 PWD were screened (160 female & 65 male) and 192 corrective glasses were issued (137 female & 55 male). Apart from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARoB), Callan Connect also operates in Western Province and across the Kokoda Track catchment areas. The initiative provides disability screening, diagnosis, and referrals, along with interventions for quality ear, eye, physical, and other specialist care. Callan Connect will also arrange venues for surgeries, coordinate travel, accommodation, and meals, and manage local transport and technical assistance for visiting specialists. The capacity development component aims to extend the reach and quality of CSNU's service delivery and provide skills and knowledge to PWD and stakeholders at project sites.

A massive earthquake of 8.7 magnitude happened this morning around 9:20 am that struck off the east coast of Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia, North Pacific Ocean at a shallow depth of 24km. Triggering a destructive tsunami that is now propagating across the Pacific. Remarks: A very large magnitude earthquake beneath the Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia, in the North Pacific Region has generated oceanwide tsunami. The earthquake has generated a destructive local tsunami at the nearby coastlines and is propagating to distant coastlines within the Pacific including the northern coast of Papua New Guinea. The Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management issued warning that the tsunami is anticipated to reach the coastal areas of Manus Island, New Ireland, New Britain Island, Autonomous region of Bougainville, Madang, East and West Sepik Provinces this afternoon between 4.00pm and 7.00pm. The estimated arrival times and tsunami amplitude (height) are as follows: Location Estimated arrival time Approx height (m) • Manus Island - @ 4.50 pm. 1 – 3 meters • Kavieng - @ 4.50 pm 1 – 3 meters • Rabaul - @ 5.50 pm 0.3 – 1.0 meters • Kimbe - @ 5. 40 pm 1 – 3 meters • Madang - @ 5.50 pm 1 – 3 meters • Wewak - @ 5.30 pm 1 – 3 meters • Vanimo - @ 5. 20 pm 1 – 3 meters Tsunami estimated arrival time information is subject to further revision. The public is advised to stay away from coastal areas during the warning period (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM). People are urged to avoid going out sea, people are also urged to stay clear of the coastlines, beaches and harbors. Those in the threatened coastal areas are to move to higher ground or further inland. The National Disaster Authorities will provide updates as to when it is safe to return. This information is subject to further revision.

The Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) has successfully launched its brand-new official website along with the Communication, Knowledge and Visibility Strategy (CKVS) 2025–2027. The Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) is committed to increasing the public availability of relevant, digitized and disaggregated data and information for key Forest-Climate Change Biodiversity (FCCB) sectors. A critical step toward achieving this objective is the modernization of CCDA’s website, along with the development of a robust communications and knowledge management strategy. This milestone marks a significant step forward in improving public access to climate information, raising awareness and strengthening CCDA’s engagement with partners, stakeholders and citizens across Papua New Guinea. “The CKVS 2025–2027 is a vital tool in enhancing how we share knowledge, promote transparency, and amplify the climate efforts of our people,” Ms. Debra Sungi, Acting Managing Director of CCDA highlighted. “We are truly grateful to the EU-FCCB Program for their continued support in making this strategy and our website launch possible,” said Ms. Sungi. “Together, we move forward with a bold vision to connect climate ambition with communication excellence.” The launch signifies CCDA’s commitment to digital transformation, stakeholder engagement and effective climate communication which is in line with Papua New Guinea’s national climate priorities and international obligations under the Paris Agreement.

As of Monday 28th July 2025, Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals will be able to register for Australia's second annual Pacific Engagement Visa stream (PEV) ballot. The PEV provides opportunities for up to 3,000 Pacific Island and Timorese nationals to live, work and study in Australia each year. Samoa and Kiribati will join the program in 2025-26, showing their strong interest in closer links between our countries and peoples. Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga and Vanuatu will continue to participate in 2025-26. The inaugural PEV ballot in 2024-25 demonstrated the keen interest from the region for deeper connections and enhanced integration with Australia, with over 56,000 ballot registrations. Australia has granted over 1,000 PEVs since October 2024, with many visa holders now settled with their families in Australian communities. The PEV program will grow the Pacific Island and Timor-Leste diasporas in Australia, strengthening links between our people and encouraging business and education ties. PEV holders can move freely between Australia and their home countries over their lifetime, delivering education, skills and economic dividends for the region and linking us more closely together. Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong stated that the Pacific Engagement Visa highlights Australia's commitment to the Pacific family and Timor-Leste. "Strengthening our ties between the Pacific and Timor-Leste through people and education is central to our shared ambition for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.” "The opening of the second ballot is a milestone in an initiative that will offer life-changing opportunities for families and communities in our region." Speaking also regarding the PEV program was Minister for Home Affairs, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Tony Burke who highlighted that he is looking forward to seeing more people from the Pacific and Timor-Leste settling in Australia and enhancing the nation's rich cultural diversity. "I am pleased to open the PEV ballot for a second year. The PEV demonstrates Australia's commitment to deepening relationships with Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste." Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy also added that the Pacific Engagement Visa program responds to requests from the Pacific for greater regional mobility and access to education and training opportunities. "The program is part of our commitment to listening and delivering on the priorities of our Pacific partners.” "I am so pleased that Samoa and Kiribati are joining the ballot this year.” "It is a great way of bringing the peoples of the Pacific together, growing the diaspora in Australia and creating opportunities for our Pacific neighbours."

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has welcomed the interest of Japanese seafood giant, Kiyomura Corporation, in exploring potential investment opportunities in Papua New Guinea’s fisheries sector. Kiyomura Corporation, renowned for its high-end sushi restaurant chain and led by the iconic “Tuna King” Mr. Kiyoshi Kimura, President of Kiyomura Corporation, is exploring options that align with PNG’s national fisheries and aquaculture priorities. NFA Managing Director Mr. Justin Ilakini said the interest from Kiyomura Corporation is timely and aligns strategically with the National Tuna Development Strategy and National Aquaculture Development Policy, both of which aim to expand the sector, increase value-added processing, and enhance market access for PNG’s seafood products. “We welcome Kiyomura Corporation’s interest as it directly complements our goals of sustainable fisheries development, job creation, and broadening access to international markets for PNG seafood,” Mr. Ilakini stated. “This potential partnership signals another step forward in transforming PNG into a key player in the global seafood supply chain.” Kiyomura Corporation, founded in 1985, has built a strong reputation for sourcing high-quality marine products and operating a chain of sushi restaurants throughout Japan. The company is also known for its record-breaking tuna purchases at Tokyo’s fish markets. Its involvement in PNG's fisheries sector could bring high-level expertise, technology transfer, and international recognition to the country's tuna and seafood industries. Two proposals have been identified for possible collaboration:  NFA is proposing a distribution and holding facility arrangement in Japan, like existing models in Singapore and Guangzhou (China), where PNG exports are consolidated and distributed to major retail and wholesale buyers. A similar arrangement through Kiyomura Corporation would strengthen PNG’s seafood footprint in the Japanese market.  NFA is encouraging long-term investment opportunities in onshore processing, cold storage, and aquaculture development. These initiatives would contribute to job creation, wealth generation for communities, and sustainable fisheries resource management. Mr. Ilakini assured Kiyomura Corporation of the Authority’s full support in facilitating scoping and feasibility missions in PNG. “Kiyomura Corporation’s involvement has the potential to unlock significant economic benefits for our people while strengthening PNG’s position as a sustainable and reliable seafood exporter,” Mr. Ilakini said. “We are committed to supporting Mr. Kimura and his team in assessing these opportunities.” This engagement reinforces the NFA’s commitment to sustainable development, community-based livelihoods, and inclusive growth in the fisheries sector, in line with the PNG Government’s economic transformation agenda.

MiBank successfully hosted its first ever  Esiloans and Lending Roadshow in Alotau, Milne Bay province recently on Friday 18th July, with the aim to foster new business opportunities, improve existing business and strengthen partnership with its stakeholders. MiBank’s corporate tagline is “Grow with us”, and the theme for the Roadshow was in alignment with their corporate tagline “Grow with us into the future.” The Road Show was held at Masurina Lodge and was well attended by over ninety (90) invited guests representing over twenty (20) different organizations from Alotau and parts of the Milne Bay province. Alotau Branch Manager Ms. Keilo Nelson in her opening remarks stated that the event was held to acknowledge all the stakeholders and partners, to provide information about MiBank organisation and their products and also to facilitate interaction with everyone. Ms. Nelson acknowledged the bank’s prominent Esiloans customer in the province, Milne Bay Estates who is also the largest employer in the province with over 3,000 employees. “The staff of Milne Bay Estate have access to the Esiloans loan product, their salaries are paid through the MiPei system.” Ms. Nelson also acknowledged the Member for Alotau, Ricky Morris who also attended the event as a special guest. She also welcomed the Member for Wau Waria to the province, Marsh Narewec who also attended the roadshow. At the Roadshow, Morris said, “Alotau District Development Authority will continue to work with MiBank. He announced that the district will disburse K500, 000 funding continuing its Credit Guarantee Scheme arrangement, to assist the people of Alotau district obtain loans for their business. Presentations were done about the bank’s history, shareholders, its operations and evolvement. Information for the Esiloans product was shared by Ms. Tracey Murray, Business Development Manager for Esiloans while information about SME loans and other lending products was shared by Ms. Beverly Oika, Business Development Manager for Lending. Mr. Benjamin Yawi, owner of Jala Transport Service in Alotau shared his experience about being a long-time Motor vehicle loan customer for MiBank. “For small people like me and a few in the community, it is through MiBank that we are able to start our business and also continue to grow our business.” Mr. Yawi acknowledged the bank, he added, “Today I have three vehicles operating and serving the people of Alotau, Milne Bay province, thank you to MiBank. In 2023, the Alotau District Development Authority through a Credit Guarantee Scheme Agreement deposited K300, 000 as security with MiBank. The bank through this partnership provided the credit facility to small businessmen and women who were looking to participate in small-scale commercial and agricultural activities and the Road Show was done also to show the people of Milne Bay the services and products they have that can help everyone from the employment sector down to a person involve in agriculture.