Every year on the 25th of April, countries around the globe mark World Malaria Day and Papua New Guinea joins the rest this year to commemorate the day with the theme “DRIVEN TO END MALARIA: Now We Can, Now We Must.”Today, the National Department of Health (NDoH) through the Public Health Division in partnership with the National Capital District (NCD) Provincial Health Authority (PHA), World Health Organization (WHO) and Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM) commemorated World Malaria Day at the St Peter Chanel Primary School in Port Moresby city. Representatives from the respective organizations spoke on the importance of prevention and treatment. While inspiring stories were shared to the students by the guests on each of their respective roles to raise awareness on prevention and control of this curable disease. Dr. Munir Ahmed, the General Manager for Rotarians Against Malaria, had the students and teachers recite an oath to help as advocators in the campaign against the malaria disease. While Dr. Petronia Kaima, Manager-Communicable Disease from the Department of Health emphasized the importance of prevention. Dr. Kaima said that while Malaria is a curable disease, many Papua New Guineans still do not practice safety and prevention measures, resulting in many experiencing the negative side of not getting treated and obviously end up dying. Dr. Rose Morre, Deputy Director-Public Health from NCD PHA, told the students that it is important to be aware of the implications of malaria when it is not treated immediately. She said, it is sad to know that malaria has become a killer disease even though it is a curable one. The day was also celebrated with students performing creative dance acts and singing, while the school’s teachers had a segment of quiz, with students given the opportunity to answer general and specific questions relating to the Malaria Disease to win mosquito nets given by Rotarians Against Malaria. The Celebrations ended with the staff from the Department of Health conducting a free malaria testing for interest students, staffs and parents that were part of the event.

Sport continues to play a vital role in shaping communities across Papua New Guinea, and few demonstrate this impact more powerfully than Rutha-Meu Omenefa, recipient of the 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA) in the Sports & Arts category.Based in Goroka, Rutha-Meu is a committed coach, youth mentor and community leader who uses sport as a tool to build not only talented athletes, but confident, values-driven young people. For her, coaching goes beyond the field; it’s about developing better players and better individuals, while leading by example. “The most rewarding part is seeing young players seek guidance, apply what they’ve learned, and grow into leaders among their peers,” she said. “When they succeed in sport, school and their communities, I know the effort is worthwhile.” Rutha-Meu believes true leadership is rooted in service and sacrifice. Through her coaching, she invests time, trust and encouragement to prepare her players for both competition and life. In her community, leadership means honoring commitments and guiding the next generation with strong values. Reflecting on her 2025 WOWA recognition, she said the award has strengthened her motivation to continue inspiring others particularly young women in rugby league. While the recognition has brought added expectations and scrutiny, she views it as an opportunity to grow. “The award opened doors, built trust and placed a greater responsibility on me to deliver through my work,” she said. “I am passionate about supporting women in Papua New Guinea through sport and believe in the power of collaboration and unity.” Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low said Rutha-Meu embodies the purpose of the awards. “Rutha-Meu represents leadership that drives lasting impact not only through sport, but through mentorship, service and strong values,” Ms. Low said. “Her story highlights how women are transforming communities across Papua New Guinea.” Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns added that her journey sends a strong message to women across the country. “Women in sport and the arts are building confidence, unity and opportunity for the next generation,” Mr. Cairns said. “We encourage communities to recognize and nominate women who are using their talents to create positive change.”

The United States is delivering urgent humanitarian assistance to communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Maila, one of the most severe storms to hit Papua New Guinea, through a coordinated international response involving New Zealand, Australia, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).Working alongside Papua New Guinea’s National Disaster Center, the joint effort has so far distributed 2,000 emergency supply kits valued at approximately US$142,000 (624,000 PNG kina). The kits include essential household and shelter items such as kitchen sets, plastic tarpaulins, shelter repair materials, and hygiene supplies. Through a coordinated airlift operation, U.S.-funded supplies have reached 325 people across 65 households in some of the country’s most remote and hardest-hit communities. Many of these areas are only accessible by air, making delivery efforts particularly challenging. “The United States stands with the people of Papua New Guinea during this difficult time,” said U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Alex Berenberg. “Our partnership with Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Australia, and the International Organization for Migration demonstrates our shared commitment to supporting communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila and strengthening disaster resilience across the Pacific.” In Karavia 1 Ward, IOM, in coordination with the Provincial Disaster Centre, distributed 65 non-food item kits to the most affected households. The supplies included sleeping mats, soap, jerrycans, solar lights, blankets, gardening tools, and shelter repair equipment such as hammers, nails, rope, and saws. The Royal New Zealand Air Force played a key role in transporting pre-positioned U.S.-funded relief supplies from Kokopo to Lamaraim and Open Bay, both accessible only by helicopter. This effort delivered 20 kits to Lamaraim and 18 kits to Open Bay for distribution to affected families. The relief items had been pre-positioned in Lae and Kokopo as part of ongoing U.S. disaster preparedness support for Papua New Guinea, allowing rapid deployment immediately after the cyclone struck. Distributions began last week and are continuing as assessments identify further needs. Beyond immediate relief, the United States has also invested in long-term disaster resilience. Since 2023, a US$6 million program implemented through IOM has supported Papua New Guinea’s National Disaster Center, provincial authorities, and local communities. The initiative focuses on improving emergency coordination, information sharing, and preparedness systems to strengthen responses to future disasters. The United States reaffirmed its commitment to working with Papua New Guinea’s government and disaster authorities to ensure coordinated assistance that prioritizes the dignity and needs of affected communities.

Both Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia are working closely to provide essential learning materials to remote communities across PNG.Australia has distributed more than 207, 000 student books and almost 13, 000 guides for teachers. This support has reached a total of 2, 000 schools and more than 160, 000 students. The initiative was made possible through the Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE). Elementary schools in the West Sepik, Central, Enga provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville have received books to ensure students and teachers in remote communities are fostering effective teaching and learning. Mrs. Margaret Manda, the Kaipu Elementary School teacher-in-charge in the Kompiam District of Enga province, notes that the lack of books and teacher guides has been an ongoing concern for the community. She expresses her sincere appreciation for the support, emphasizing the value of having both student and teacher resources available. In Bougainville, Mrs. Jacinta Simea of Voniskopo Elementary School, explains that student books and picture dictionaries are age-appropriate and create an enjoyable and conducive learning environment for students. Mr. Paeo Kipalya, a fellow teacher at the school, said that books are the heart of the classroom and key in helping students develop reading and comprehension skills. He expressed gratitude for the continued support to education for children across Papua New Guinea. Communities are encouraged to make reading a regular and enjoyable part of children’s lives – at school and at home – by sharing and donating books, supporting local schools, and nurturing a love of reading.

Two new projects worth K 1, 240, 900 were officially opened and blessed at the Divine Word University’s (DWU) St Benedict Wewak Campus, in East Sepik province.These projects are the Nursing Simulation Laboratory and Extension and the Male Student Recreational Hall and were funded through the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and technology (DHESRT) under the Government’s Public Investment Program. Delivering the keynote address at the ceremony was Mr. Koney Samuel, the Secretary of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. Mr. Samuel stressed that the Marape-Russo Government is committed to achieving quality education through the Medium-Term Development Plan IV and the Higher Education Plan. He reaffirmed that these national frameworks are vital in equipping young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue their goals and aspirations. He further stressed the importance of fostering inclusive learning environments through extracurricular activities alongside hands-on practical experiences. These methods make room for collective learning and encourage students to think beyond themselves, strengthening togetherness across the campus community, he stated. He encouraged the students, stating, “the equipment and training dummies represent a significant investment, and I urge you to use them responsibly so that they are preserved for the benefit of future students.” Speaking at the ceremony, Governor of East Sepik Province, Allan Bird, noted the country’s immediate need for more health professionals and commended DWU for its continuous investment in modern teaching and learning infrastructure, particularly in the health sciences education in the Sepik region. The ceremony was also attended by Fr Gibbs, who reminded students that education includes human development, healthy relationships and personal growth; he said spaces such as the new Male Recreational Hall promote holistic development. Meanwhile, in her opening speech the DWU Vice President Planning and Development, Mrs. Julie Ruene provided an overview of the projects. She outlined that the total cost of the Nursing Simulation Laboratory Extension was K421, 448, while the Male Student Recreational Hall amounted to K821, 487, a total of K 1, 242, 935. She expressed the University’s sincere appreciation to the National Government for its support and confidence in DWU, and acknowledged GOLB Bell Construction for delivering both projects on time and within the approved budget. The event concluded with the presentation of traditional gifts to distinguished guests, accompanied by traditional performances showcased by DWU students.

A recent report published by UNAIDS on the 17th of April has shared light on the rate in which HIV is increasing in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The report states that there is a staggering rise in HIV infections in PNG, which has doubled since 2020. This coupled with the strain on the Health System and challenges linked to declining funding, saw the government declaring a national HIV crisis in June of 2025. UNAIDS identified that women and children are being affected by this crisis. An estimated 2, 700 infants were infected with HIV, around seven per day, while women account for approximately 60 percent of adults living with HIV in the country. The report revealed that around one quarter of pregnant women living with HIV receive Antiretroviral (Anti-Retro-Viral) therapy to stay healthy and prevent transmission to their child. Health Minister Elias Kapavore has described the situation as “deeply concerning” and pledged to mobilize urgent resources to protect “the next generation of Papua New Guineans.” Furthermore, the report stated that the National Government approved and allocated an emergency funding of US$13.5million (K50million) for HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. This funding will support expanded prevention, increased access to testing and treatment, and strengthened services for pregnant women, children, adolescents and key populations. Meanwhile, attempts by PNG HAUSBUNG to speak to the National Aids Council Secretariat and National Department of Health Secretary for further comments on the UNAIDS report, were unsuccessful.

Church health partners play a vital frontline role in delivering both medical care and community leadership in Papua New Guinea (PNG) with the continued support from Australia through trainings and other forms of support.Just recently, 25 church leaders and health workers participated in a training session in Port Moresby city, intended to strengthen responses to Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV), and promoting good governance in community health systems. At the 9-Mile clinic in Port Moresby, Sr. Maria Runane thanked the Australian Government for the grant support highlighting that “Every one of us, including youths, need to be trained so that we can bring change to our community.” The training focused on nurturing good governance and anti-corruption practices within faith-based health services. The workshop, delivered by Christian Health Services (CHS) was supported though the Community Justice Fund under the Australia-Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ). Its goal is creating more awareness and prevention practices around prevailing community issues such as GBV and SARV as well as raising the standards of care and support for survivors, and improving referral pathways between health providers, churches, and justice institutions. CHS Deputy Charmain, Hector Morries, said “The purpose of the training is to strengthen the ability of CHS’s extensive network of churches and health centers across PNG to provide a proactive and integrated approach to addressing GBV and SARV.” Through the PNG–Aus Partnership, Australia continues to support the church health services to strengthen safe, inclusive communities and improve access to justice and essential services across Papua New Guinea.

The Kakondo community, in the Simbu province, now has access to lighting following the successful installation of a solar lighting project.The project, which was funded by Puma Energy Foundation, is managed by Kakondo Solar Energy Life (KaSEL) and benefits 50 households. As part of the project, a total of 60 streetlights along the community highway were installed along with a renewable solar power station, were installed at a newly built community resource center (CRC). Also included in the project are new communal areas. The community resource centre will be used as a hub for training, meetings, youth engagement, digital access, and community coordination. The installations of the solar lights along the streets and at the resource center address the community’s immediate need for adequate lighting in key areas and services locations. This is a common issue across many rural communities in Papua New Guinea and is accessible only to 20% of the population. “This initiative now provides reliable and clean energy, not only powering the facility but also extending electricity supply within a 100-meter radius to over 50 households -demonstrating a replicable model for rural solar electrification,” said KaSEL Chairman Mauro Okrupa. “Additionally, the funding enabled the installation of 60 solar streetlights strategically placed across 36 traditional houses, schools, aid posts, and public marketplaces throughout the Kakondo tribal communities. “These developments have greatly enhanced safety, improved livelihoods, strengthened community resilience and provide job creation opportunities.” Port Moresby Charity Committee representative, Olivia Lam, said: “The Puma Energy Foundation partners with organizations that provide clean and reliable energy to rural households.  “Without energy, communities cannot tackle issues like high energy cost, public safety concerns, poverty and public health. This is why the Foundation invests in providing clean energy and eco-friendly infrastructure to address these challenges.” To foster sustainable livelihood opportunities, stronger local capacity and access to clean energy, the Puma Energy Foundation has been working with partners over the last three years to empower entrepreneurs and young people. The first community funded project saw the successful construction of a 4-in-1 classroom on Pirtop Island in East New Britain Province. This classroom is now providing a clean and secure learning environment for more than 100 students. This is the second Puma Foundation community funded project in PNG.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has formally welcomed Türkiye’s plans to establish a permanent embassy in the country, during a courtesy call at the Melanesian House in Port Moresby yesterday.Marape described the meeting as a historic milestone in bilateral relations. He added that Türkiye plans to establish its regional base in Port Moresby for engagement with other Pacific countries. The Ambassador held a bilateral discussion with the Prime Minister on fostering stronger diplomatic, economic, and development cooperation. In supporting Türkiye’s diplomatic establishment, including facilitating land for an embassy site, Marape highlighted PNG’s intention to establish a mission in Türkiye in the future. He said that this new diplomatic relationship would promote a stronger trade, investment, and people-to-people ties. Climate change, environmental protection, and sustainable development are other areas PNG is interested in expanding, Marape noted. Due to PNG's strategic location, leadership, and development potential, it was selected as Türkiye's first diplomatic base, according to Ambassador Bilgin Ozkan. She reaffirmed that Port Moresby will serve as Türkiye’s regional hub for its engagement in the Pacific. Both sides agreed to explore further cooperation including trade, investment and possible visa facilitation to support closer ties. Diplomatic relations between Papua New Guinea and Türkiye were established in 1979, with Türkiye now officially opening its first resident embassy in Port Moresby.

Following the meeting with Charge d’Affaires Mr. Alex Berengberg of the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has welcomed continued cooperation with the United States.The meeting yesterday was aimed at strengthening bilateral relationship between the countries in key areas including fuel security, disaster response, and long-term infrastructure development. Prime Minister, Marape, acknowledged the United States’ continued support during the current global crisis. “The United States has indicated they are working closely with Fuel Importers to ensure supply into Papua New Guinea remains stable, and they stand ready to support us through this period,” Prime Minister Marape said. He further welcomed the U.S to working closely with regional and international partners in supporting the disaster relief and restoration efforts following the devastating impacts of Tropical Cyclone (TC), Malia. “They have conveyed that additional assistance will be made available as we provide further advice on priority areas for support,” he added. Marape highlighted the PNG government’s long-term priorities, including restoring affected coastal communities. “We are looking at long-term solutions to better connect our island communities through transport and digital infrastructure, while also building resilience against climate and weather-related challenges,” he said. Further on energy cooperation, Marape mentioned continued dialogue under the PNG-US Defense Cooperation Agreement including Fuel Storage and Supply capacity. He stressed Papua New Guinea’s strong partnership with the United States across development, security, and economic cooperation. Also covered in the meeting were cooperation efforts on Visa and Migration matters; with the U.S. stating it remains ready to assist Papua New Guineans, subject to their internal processes. The PNG Government will soon formally engage development partners alongside the United States, Marape said. These collaborations would provide target support for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts to ensure affected families and communities across the country are better protected and are more resilient to future disasters.

Women in Rai Coast District have received K10,000 to support community projects. The Rai Coast District Development Authority (RDDA) gave the money to women representatives from Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government. Acting District Administrator Hans Tanguri handed over the funds on behalf of Rai Coast MP Kessy Sawang. "The support is part of the new District Women’s Council, which is now fully operating in the district," he said. The council will bring women together and support small projects in rural communities. It will also help coordinate development activities led by women. Women leaders in Astrolabe Bay welcomed the funding. They said it will help them continue work that supports families and villages. One representative said the council gives women a stronger voice and better access to support. MP Kessy Sawang said women play an important role in local development. She said more support will be given to other Local Level Governments in the district. RDDA plans to roll out more funding to women groups across Rai Coast later this year.

A new house with solar power has been completed in Kulel village in the Rai Coast District, a first for the district in Madang province. The house was built for a community health worker and funded by the Rai Coast District Development Authority at a cost of K75,000. It was completed in March. For many years, health workers in remote areas of Papua New Guinea have faced poor housing and lack of electricity. This has made it hard to stay and work in rural communities. The new house aims to change that. It provides proper accommodation and solar lighting, allowing health services to continue even at night. Rai Coast MP Kessy Sawang said the project is part of an effort to improve basic services in rural areas. “We want our health workers to stay in the community and serve our people,” she said. People in Kulel say the house will improve access to health care. They say having a health worker nearby means faster treatment and better response to emergencies. The project is small but important for the village. Sawang said more development is planned, including a new aid post for Kulel this year. For now, the solar-powered house is a simple but important step for better health care in the community.