A total of 57 employees working with the Simberi Gold Company Limited (SGCL) recently celebrated their long service of ten to fifteen years with the company, with 39 locals and eighteen national staff. The awards were presented early this month, with 27 staff which included three females and 24 males being presented with certificates and a Lenovo ThinkPad Laptop each for their fifteen years of service to SGCL. The ten-year awardees who were six females and 24 males, received their long service certificates with customized company branded watches. The Simberi gold mine has been in production since 2008, with the current employment of 812 employees. The local employees make up 49% of the workforce, nationals 46%, and expatriates at 5%. SGCL’s Executive General Manager, Randy McMahon, congratulated and thanked the awardees for their commitment and dedication to the company over the past ten to fifteen years. “Your dedicated service has been a key contributor to our successes, and you have witnessed first-hand the evolution of our operations from the early days of infrastructure development to the progress we have made today.” ‘’As we move toward the Sulphide Project, we truly appreciate your contributions and need the experience that you all have, to guide new employees on working safely and bring your skills to new challenges.” “Your hard work and dedication are valued, and we encourage you to continue striving for excellence.’’ McMahon is now looking forward to continuing this journey with each of the employees in achieving greater milestones. In addition, a total of 65 employees were also recognised for their five years of service to the company this month. Despite being a small mine, SGCL continues to provide significant impact to the communities of Simberi Island and the Tabar Group of Islands in terms of providing employment opportunities and sustainable development through ongoing projects. Furthermore, SGCL is proud to have employees who are dedicated to the company’s values and commitments.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) highlighted some of the challenges of achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health for women, girls and young people in Papua New Guinea that was re-emphasized at the start of the new year. The infrastructural constraints, limited funding and insufficient human resources continue to have a significant impact on the access to quality sexual and reproductive health in the country. Despite this, the country office has had a busy few months during the tail-end of 2024 as they closed off the year, 2024. Together with UNFPA’s partners, they recently opened the refurbished Youth Center at the Family Health Association (FHA) in Lae, Morobe Province. Supported by World Vision Papua New Guinea, the launching of this center will provide young people with vital sexual and reproductive health services, counselling, and information. UNFPA extended their gratitude to PNG FHA and World Vision PNG, for making this initiative possible. In addition to this, UNFPA also hosted the Morobe Youth Parliament in Lae, where thirty young leaders participated in leadership and civic training. These efforts gathered further momentum at the 2024 National Youth Parliament in Port Moresby, which brought together sixty youths from across the country, empowering them to shape their communities and the nation’s future. In collaboration with the National Government, UNFPA handed over the 2024 State of the World Population Report to the Department of Monitoring and Planning. First Assistant Secretary Mr. Sanja Pepae, highlighted the report’s valuable recommendations for advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in PNG. Another milestone was the official handover of a fully equipped ambulance to the Enga Provincial Health Authority (PHA), made possible by funding from the Australian Government. During the ceremony, Officer-in-Charge of the Enga PHA, Mr. Ben Nema, expressed his gratitude, emphasizing the ambulance’s vital role in delivering healthcare to remote areas of the province, including those affected by natural disasters. With the beginning of a new year, UNFPA has reaffirmed its commitment to ensure the achievement of their three transformative results, towards ending preventable maternal death, ending the unmet need for family planning, and eliminating all forms of gender-based violence and harmful practices.

Contracts worth over K9 million for the upgrade and maintenance of two Agriculture Feeder Roads in East New Britain province (ENBP) were signed last Thursday at the National Procurement Commission (NPC) in Port Moresby. The agreements were formalized between NPC, the Cocoa Board of PNG through the PNG Commercialisation and Diversification (PACD) World Bank funded project and two contractors. The signing program was witnessed by the PACD Cocoa PMU Project Manager, Roland Kerina and Senior Engineer and Agriculture Feeder Road Component Coordinator, Raymond Paulias together with contractors’ representatives and NPC officers. According to Mr. Paulias, the two contracts signed includes the rehabilitations of the 3.18KM Vunapalading- Burit Feeder Road in inland Baining in the Gazelle District and the 4.0Km Kulungere Feeder Road in Sinivit in the Pomio District. He stated that the Vunapalading- Burit Feeder Road was awarded to COVEC PNG Ltd for a total of K4,101,405.28 and the Kulungere Feeder Road to Kokopo Plant Hire Ltd for a total of K4,964,336.34. “The existing feeder roads will be upgraded to all weather condition to ensure produce reaches the market.” “This will ease critical market access constrains for Cocoa growing communities in the respective areas.” Work will commence for both roads early next month in March and will have ten months to complete with completion expected by December of this year, 2025. Meanwhile, the Road Rehabilitation of the 5.8Km Tehobuin- Sipotavai Feeder Road in Tinputz of North Bougainville which was awarded in October of last year and under the PACD program, is progressing well and is expected to be completed by June of this year. These roads will benefit over 5, 000 cocoa farmers and will open doors for economic growth and connectivity between the different nearby communities as they are reporting an increase in cocoa production. With good road access, this will also bring in new and exciting opportunities to farmers in the area drawing attention for other services like schools, health or spin offs. Farmers in the two roads in ENBP, shared that in the past, they carried heavy loads and walked long distances following bush tracks crossing rivers to reach the nearest road junction to catch PMVs. A female cocoa farmer in Vunapalading in ENB, Rachel Micheal, also shared sentiments to her struggles of being a farmer. “We used to distribute our bags of cocoa dry beans into smaller bags and share the weight with our children and walk.” “We wake up early in the morning around 3 or 4 am and started walking.” “Now with better roads, our farmers can transport produce efficiently, children can attend school, and families can access health care.”

With few hours away, local music artists are now preparing to come together to perform in tonight’s Medical Appeal concert for well-known fellow music artist, Daniel Bilip. Bilip is currently battling a challenging medical condition that needs to undergo urgent medical treatments overseas. In response to his medical appeal, Willie Sarenga, also known as Parix, has come up with the initiative to host this medical appeal concert under the banner, ‘Musicians Unite in Concert.’ Parix is a local keyboardist in the PNG music industry who aims to help support Daniel in his journey to recovery. “After hearing the news of one of our brothers in the music industry, I then reached out to Daniel as show of my support to be there for him and it was then I decided to host a medical fundraiser as a big contribution through music.” Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Metelel Tribe, Channel Yohrin, also stated that as part of helping a brother, they also agreed to perform on the night when asked by Parix to take part in the medical appeal concert. “As a young band from Vanimo in West Sepik province, we see Daniel as a mentor and a brother who has helped us with his support and advice in the music industry and so when Parix reached out to us, we couldn’t turn it down.” Another well-known music artist, Sailas Kania who is commonly known as Saii Kay, stated that this initiative is also good for the artists to come together and sing as one. “As music artists, we do have competition in the industry but moments like this bring us together as one and so I thank Parix for coming up with this idea.” A total of ten music artists will be performing tonight where each will be performing three songs each. A few of the artists will also be singing a cover each Daniel Bilip’s songs that will also be performed tonight. The artists who will be performing are, Stagajah, Metere Crew, Saii Kay, Hotwills, Ragga Siai, Muno Worrix, Zone 5 Crew, O-Four, Metelel Tribe, Dr Wiz & Yung Dee. The medical appeal concert will take place at The Cosmopolitan club tonight in Port Moresby. Pre-sold tickets are going for K40 and K50 for door entry. For those who would also like to donate, can kindly send donations to the account provided below: ACCOUNT NAME: DANIEL BILIP BANK: KINA BANK ACCOUNT NUMBER: 21103512

Bel Isi PNG has expressed the recent number of tragic and brutal sexual assaults and murders of women in Port Moresby as appalling as well as the ongoing level of family violence perpetrated against women in Papua New Guinea. Bel isi has strongly condemn these acts of crime and has called upon the government to lead all sectors of society including private sector, community leaders, law enforcement and individuals to take immediate, decisive action to address the increasingly escalating issue of violence against women and girls. “We urge for the implementation of stronger legal protections, prosecution of perpetrators, more accessible support systems for survivors, and the creation of awareness programs that challenge harmful gender norms and attitudes.” “This appalling epidemic is inflicting devastating harm on women, families, and communities nationwide and has significant impacts to our ability to develop and enjoy a just and safe Papua New Guinea for all.” The escalating prevalence of family and sexual violence, gender-based violence and sorcery accusation-related violence is at crisis point in which cannot be turned away. Furthermore, Bel isi PNG has worked extensively with their private sector subscribers and partners as well as government partners to address family and sexual violence using the workforce as an entry point but is still in need for many more to join in taking up this challenge. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the families who have tragically lost their daughters, sisters, and mothers to these senseless crimes.”

Rugby League superstar, Cameron Smith has backed Papua New Guinea to make a successful transition into the NRL after visiting the country to attend a celebration event acknowledging the NRL’s newest franchise calling PNG home. While in the country, Smith has been meeting with the government and PNG Rugby League officials to offer support and advice on creating a world-leading franchise that can sustain the development of the game for years to come. Smith was impressed with the planning and structures that were being put in place for entry into the National Rugby League in 2028. “To be a successful rugby league club you need to build from the bottom upwards and have the right structures in place at all levels.” “That means creating a pathways system to maximise the potential of your playing depth, as well as creating great relationships with government, sponsors and the community so everyone is aligned with the same goals.” “You have tremendous support for the game in this country starting with your Prime Minister James Marape, who has been a game-changer in terms of working with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to make the dream of joining the NRL a reality.” “The love and passion for the game is obvious. Now with the support of Wapu Sonk, Andrew Hill and Stanley Hondina you have the right people who can put all the building blocks in place for success.” He further expressed that the key to any great club is the people within it and that everyone is focussed on doing things the right way. “If the opportunity arises, I am keen to help in any way I can as I’m really excited for the future of the game here and how it will unite and inspire the people of PNG.” Moreover, NRL Bid Chairman, Wapu Sonk, was grateful to have Smith’s input into planning for 2028 stating that having someone with an experience like Cameron Smith, who has been a major part of some of the most successful teams of all time, offer advice on how to create a successful rugby league club, it is important to listen. “Cameron was a superstar of the game and someone who set new standards for hard work and professionalism.” “We are extremely grateful that he has been able to visit our country and to see first-hand the plans we have in place to make sure that we leave no stone unturned in creating the right environment for success.” “We have had some great conversations about what we need to do over the next three years to make sure that we hit the ground running in 2028, and then to have sustained success over a long period." “We look forward to continuing our conversations with Cameron in the coming months.” Meanwhile, NRL Bid Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Hill, was also delighted that Smith had been able to witness first-hand the excitement that the people of PNG had for what was to come in 2028. “It is a real eye-opener to come to PNG and actually experience the excitement that everyone has for becoming part of the NRL.” “Cam has been there and done it at every level of the game.” “He has led hugely successful teams, played under some of the greatest coaches and understands what it takes to create a successful club environment.” “Most importantly, he knows what sustained excellence looks like.” “All of our planning at the moment, is based on making sure that we put in place the best of everything." He further stated that on and off the field, he wants PNG to be a world leader in standards and to be the preferred destination for players throughout the world. “With the support of people like Cameron Smith we are confident that we are on the right path."

Breast, cervical, rectum, oral and liver cancer, are known as the most common cancers in Papua New Guinea. Clinical Oncology Physician and Acting Chief Oncologist at the National Department of Health, Doctor Manna Kiraks Ario, confirmed this during today's Media Development Initiative’s Civil Society Networking Event. This event was hosted in commemoration of World Cancer Day that took place on the 4th of February this year highlighting some of the cancer challenges and how these can be addressed in terms of awareness. With the theme for this important event, ‘Empowering Voices for Change & Support’, Dr Ario stated the importance of understanding more the cancer care in the country as well as advocacy and change and the preventive strategies that the National Department of Health has in place to strengthen cancer care services in the country. Dr. Ario stated the challenges and barriers that affects the cancer care system in the country with the need to seriously address these issues. Barriers such as lack of cancer care system, treatment, facilities and health workers and specialists, hinder the access to receive treatment for cancer patients. “The cancer care system is poorly coordinated and fragmented which needs to be addressed." "We also have lack of screening facilities in the country as well as diagnosis for cancer patients.” “Treatments for cancer patients are consistent as we do not have enough theatres to carry out cancer treatment due to limited space.” “Shortage of health workers and specialists is also a major barrier in delivering a better cancer care system in the country.” Dr. Ario stated that according to the World Health Organization Global Cancer Observatory, the International Agency for Research of Cancer, has shown estimated figures that over 5, 000 cases show the men’s cancer population whilst over 6, 000 cases show the women’s population who are diagnosed with cancer. In terms of addressing these, Dr Ario urged that raising awareness can bring a lot of change with preventive measures that must be put in place. “One particular awareness we can carry out is breaking the stigma and showing support towards cancer." "Often times patients don’t come quickly because they live in fear of the misconception about cancer.” “We must also advocate for more cancer facilities and for the right authorities to invest more in cancer facilities.” In addition, educating more on cancer awareness in schools and work organizations will help in better understanding the cancer care system and preventing the increase in cancer. “Prevention is the key in addressing cancer awareness; therefore improving literacy will better help the task in carrying out cancer awareness.” Furthermore, with plans to embark on a new cancer facility at the Port Moresby General Hospital and with the newly established Angau Cancer facility in Morobe province, this sets the tone in the right path to improving cancer care in the country. Dr. Ario urged the need to prioritize on the new cancer facility that will become the cancer hub of the country. He added that with an increase in awareness, cancer care can be greatly improved with a more coordinated system for better cancer care.

The National Department of Health and UNAIDS are reassuring the public that HIV testing and treatment services remain available throughout the country. The National Department of Health has secured a 12 month supply of essential HIV commodities, including antiretrovirals (ARV) and HIV test kits. An assessment of ART clinics and HIV testing clinics in late January confirmed there were no disruptions to services. ‘’There is no shortage of HIV drugs and reagents in PNG. The Government of Papua New Guinea finances all ARV drugs and reagents.” said Mr Wai, Deputy Secretary of Public Health. Mr Wai said an estimated 48,000 men, women and children living with HIV are currently receiving ARV treatment. He reiterated the importance of HIV prevention, including practicing safe sex. Dr Nano Gideon, National STI/HIV Program Manager confirmed that ARV drugs are purchased by the National Government through the Health Department and are free of charge in Papua New Guinea. “The commitment of the Government of Papua New Guinea in procuring these essential HIV commodities has ensured the uninterrupted supply of lifesaving services for the more than 48,000 enrolled in HIV treatment,” said UNAIDS Country Director Manoela Manova. The national community-led monitoring (CLM) hotline is available for information and assistance with HIV services: 73096477. Although some personnel including clinicians, trackers and data entry clerks who support HIV services, and are funded through the United States Government, may be unavailable to support services in some clinics in NCD, partners are working closely under the guidance of NDoH to ensure the absence of these essential personnel does not affect access to HIV testing and treatment. Community-led services and community-led monitoring have been affected. These community-led interventions are especially strategic because they focus on the places and populations where the epidemic is growing and they complement inputs from governments and other donors, including the Global Fund and Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. During the US foreign aid review period, we call on partners in PNG, especially the NCDPHA, the development sector and the private sector to band together and ensure these crucial services continue.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) successfully hosted its Olympic Solidarity Workshop on the 15th of February 2025, at the Grand Papua Hotel in Port Moresby. The workshop immediately followed the PNGOC Special General Meeting which brought together representatives from all Olympic Sports of whom are members of the PNGOC. Olympic Solidarity supports National Olympic Committees in the world through assistance for the National Olympic Committee and athlete development programs. These development programs include athlete and sports development values, capacity building, and administration. The workshop provided vital information on the 2025-2028 quadrennial allocations, ensuring that National Federations gained a clear understanding of the Olympic Solidarity programs and the requirements necessary to access funding. With preparations underway for the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, the event served as an important strategic forum for national sports administrators to align their objectives with Olympic standards and opportunities. Participants engaged in discussions on global and continental Olympic Solidarity initiatives, exploring various support mechanisms available to enhance athlete development and sports administration. The sessions covered eligibility criteria, application processes, and reporting obligations, equipping National Federations with the knowledge needed to maximize funding opportunities. In addition, the workshop also emphasized long-term planning and goal setting, ensuring that Team PNG remained on track for future Olympic success. President of PNGOC, Mrs. Emma Waiwai, highlighted the significance of the workshop, stating that the Olympic Solidarity programs provide instrumental support to their National Federations, ensuring that their athletes and sports administrators have access to the resources they need to compete at the highest level. “This workshop is a critical step in strengthening our pathways to the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.” “I commend all National Federations for their engagement, as the knowledge and insights gained will play a significant role in shaping the future for Papua New Guinea's sporting success." Furthermore, the workshop featured presentations on Olympic preparation strategies, funding distribution, and best practices for strengthening national sports programs. As the country continues its journey toward international sporting excellence, the PNGOC acknowledges the support from Olympic Solidarity, and remains committed to supporting National Federations by providing the necessary tools and resources. The insights gained from this workshop will now play a crucial role in shaping the country’s sports development strategy for the coming years.

Prime Minister James Marape, has condemned in the strongest terms the brutal rape and murder of a woman at Watermark Estate in Baruni in Port Moresby, describing the act as inhumane, barbaric, and utterly unacceptable in the society. He expressed deep shock and outraged by this despicable crime and stated that no woman, child or citizen of the country should ever have to endure such horrifying violence. “This is not just an attack on one individual, but it is an attack on our collective sense of humanity and justice.” He assured the nation that the government will spare no effort in ensuring that those responsible for this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice. “I have instructed our law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in their investigations.” “The criminals responsible for this cowardly act must be caught and punished to the fullest extent of the law. Justice must be served, and I urge all citizens with any information to come forward and assist the police.” Meanwhile, he reiterated his government’s unwavering support for the eviction of illegal settlements that have become safe havens for criminals. He commended the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) for its ongoing efforts to dismantle these settlements, emphasising that law and order must be upheld in all communities. “For too long, certain areas have become breeding grounds for criminal elements who terrorise innocent people, businesses, and communities.” “This must stop! I fully support the efforts by the NCD Governor, Powes Parkop as well as the NCDC authorities to remove illegal settlements that harbor criminal activities. We cannot allow law-abiding citizens and businesses to live in fear.” He further stressed that evictions will be carried out in an orderly and lawful manner, with government agencies ensuring that those displaced are given proper support to relocate to designated areas and issued a strong and direct warning to those involved in this crime and all other criminal activities in the country. “To those who commit such horrendous acts, let this be clear, the government will come down hard on you. We will not allow criminals to think they can act with impunity. The rule of law will prevail, and every perpetrator will face the full force of justice.” “My government is strengthening our police force, improving our justice system, and enhancing national security to ensure that such crimes are dealt with swiftly and decisively.” Furthermore, a call has been made to all community leaders, churches, and citizens to work together with the police in addressing law and order issues, emphasizing that security is a shared responsibility. “We must reclaim our communities from the grip of crime. I call on our people to report any suspicious activities and support the police with credible information. Those who protect criminals or refuse to cooperate with law enforcement are complicit in these crimes.” Moreover, the PM Marape reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening law and order, increasing police presence, and ensuring that criminal activities are stamped out. “My government has already begun investing in boosting police resources, increasing manpower, and improving law enforcement capabilities. We will not rest until every Papua New Guinean feels safe in their own country; every woman, every child, and every citizen deserve to live in a society free from fear and violence.” In closing, PM Marape extended his deepest condolences to the family of the victim and assured them that the government stands with them in their time of grief. “My thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family. No words can undo the pain they are experiencing, but I assure them that justice will be done. This is a defining moment for our nation to unite against crime, to take a stand against violence, and to build a Papua New Guinea where all citizens can live in safety and dignity."

Police Minister and Regional member of Bougainville, Peter Tsiamalili, stated that as the mandated regional member and as a proud uncle of newly crowned Miss PNG, May Torovi Hasola, has expressed disappointment to the derogatory statements that have recently surfaced on social media regarding her origin and that of her parents. Tsiamalili addressed this saying that such behavior is not only hurtful but completely unacceptable and has unequivocally condemned it. “May Torovi Hasola represents more than just herself; she embodies the hopes and dreams of young women across Papua New Guinea, particularly those in Bougainville.” “Her role as Miss PNG is a testament to her dedication, intelligence, and strength, and it serves as an inspiration to many, especially to the girls in Bougainville who have been affected by the challenges of our past civil unrest.” “These young women deserve the opportunity to pursue their dreams with dignity and pride.” He urged all Bougainvilleans to remain calm during this time and expressed that as people continue to share posts via WhatsApp and Facebook, they must also recognize that perpetuating negativity only fuels the fire. He also stated that it is essential that all must take action to stop circulating harmful comments and allow the law to take its course. “Let us rise above this situation and remain the proud, intelligent, and humble people we have always been. Our flag, the UPE, symbolizes self-respect and discipline. We must always adhere to the values that make us stand apart as a region.” “By embodying these principles, we can foster a culture of respect and unity that uplifts us all. I assure you that this matter will be addressed with the full force of our cyber laws. We must not allow negativity and discrimination to overshadow the achievements of our youth.” He added that May's journey is a celebration of resilience and empowerment, and it is essential that the people support her rather than detract from her accomplishments. Furthermore, he called upon all Bougainvilleans to unite in celebrating May's achievements and to foster a culture of respect and encouragement. “Together, we can create an environment where every young person feels valued and supported in their pursuit of excellence. Thank you for your understanding and solidarity.”

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) has announced the commencement of the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) for the 2025 academic year. A total of 15, 889 awardee students have received the scholarship including; 5,251 first-year students selected via the National Online Selection System (NOSS). 631 non-school leavers meeting TESAS requirements. 10,007 continuing students enrolled in TESAS-eligible programs at registered higher education institutions (HEIs). The 2025 TESAS awards encompass first-year students selected through the National Online Application System (NOAS) and continuing students enrolled in all recognized HEIs, including universities and colleges. DHERST has acknowledged that some HEIs did not submit continuing student reports on time. Consequently, a supplementary TESAS list will be released in late March 2025 after the conclusion of semester one registrations. Institutions failing to submit reports on time are responsible for addressing their students’ concerns regarding TESAS eligibility. DHERST has also instructed that for the first year TESAS students, they have received their TESAS notifications via the NOAS MyStatus portal. Recipients must confirm their acceptance or decline as outlined in their notification. Those eligible for TESAS travel benefits will be notified of their travel arrangements (air, land, or sea) through the same portal. As for continuing students, those not listed on the TESAS award list should consult their respective HEIs for clarification. Self-sponsored students who have been awarded TESAS for 2025 are advised to check their travel itineraries with Air Niugini offices. Travel planners will adhere strictly to destinations provided by HEIs in the prior academic year. Meanwhile, the government through DHERST, has fully settled all outstanding TESAS arrears for the 2024 academic year and for this year, in alignment with the policy priorities of the Marape-Rosso Government, the National Budget 2025 has allocated an additional K10 million to TESAS. Disbursement of TESAS payments for Semester one this year will commence promptly upon the HEI’s full completion of student registrations. Furthermore, DHERST extends its gratitude to the National Government for its continued investment in higher education. "We also commend the dedicated efforts of HEI registrars, student data officers, and the DHERST team in ensuring the successful implementation of TESAS."