PNG Haus Bung

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL) have officially opened the Lloyds Apparel Training Centre in Arawa, marking a new step towards expanding economic opportunities and skills development in Bougainville.ABG President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, and LMEL Managing Director Balasubramanian Prabhakaran officially opened the facility this week in the presence of Central Bougainville parliamentarians, LMEL staff, community leaders, trainees and members of the public.The center is a joint initiative between the ABG and LMEL and will initially train 150 women and girls from across Bougainville in apparel manufacturing.President Toroama described the initiative as a tangible result of the peace process and a vital step toward the region's target of self-government by September 1st, 2027. "We must be mature, we must train our women, we must train our youth so that when the declaration by the President is being made for next year, you can see that empowerment," President Toroama announced.He also acknowledged LMEL’s investment in Bougainville and its efforts to support opportunities beyond the mineral sector. He emphasized that such initiatives are critical for raising the internal revenue necessary for a sovereign nation. "I told [LMEL] if you believe in the terms that Bougainville stood firm and fought to become an independent sovereign nation, then I will take you on board," Toroama recalled his first meeting with Prabhakaran.The President said partnerships such as the apparel initiative would be important in building Bougainville’s economic base and internal revenue as it prepares for self-government and its independence aspirations. He said the partnership was based on a shared interest in ensuring that economic opportunities benefit the people of Bougainville."The government will not be greedy" and "Lloyds Metal will not be greedy," President Toroama said.He said Bougainville’s aspirations for self-government and independence were now being supported by practical initiatives and are no longer ‘distant hopes. "We are not dreaming. It's no longer a dream. Your leaders have provided this opportunity for all our younger people here in Bougainville," he said. Mr. Prabhakaran described the opening as "a great painting of our dream into a reality" and said the centre was designed to enable Bougainvilleans to eventually own and manage the apparel businesses."You are not working; you own this unit. You are going to be the owner of this mission,” Prabhakaran said. He said the long-term plan was to establish smaller apparel manufacturing units in communities across Bougainville, allowing women to work closer to their homes and families. The initiative aims to eventually create opportunities for up to 2,000 people and produce uniforms and other garments for schools, hospitals, and the mining sector."We commit to see that we will make this as a global apparel manufacturing hub of the world," Prabhakaran said. The center will initially focus on meeting local demand and reducing the cost of garments in Bougainville, with the longer-term ambition of exporting locally produced garments to neighboring countries.The first 150 trainees will undertake a three-month training program with trainers already in place at the facility before full-scale commercial production begins

President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), His Excellency Ishmael Toroama says development in Bougainville is increasingly being translated into practical opportunities for the people.President Toroama made the remarks on Monday while officially opening the Lloyds Apparel Training Centre at the Arawa Country Club, alongside Managing Director of Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL), Balasubramanian Prabhakaran.The opening brought together Central Bougainville parliamentarians, community leaders, LMEL representatives, trainees and members of the public.President Toroama acknowledged the people and leaders of Bougainville for embracing the partnership between the ABG and LMEL and thanked the company for its confidence in Bougainville.“Thank you for embracing the government (ABG) and Lloyds Metals with this building. It is truly an honour for every one of us that we are always inspired to become fruitful in whatever we do and whatever we say. Managing Director for Lloyds, I would like to thank you on behalf of my government, the people of Central, South and North for believing in Bougainville,” President Toroama said. President Toroama said LMEL’s engagement was extending beyond the mineral sector, with the company also contributing to employment and socio-economic opportunities for young people in Bougainville.“It is only within a year, and you have established not only within the mineral sector but also improved the lives and well-being of the younger generation.”He said such developments were important as Bougainville works to strengthen its economic base and build the capacity needed to exercise greater self-government.President Toroama encouraged women and young people to take advantage of opportunities created through skills development, training and employment. He also urged the young people attending the opening to remain committed to their training and learn from the trainers and industry professionals supporting the initiative.As Bougainville prepares for the Self-Government Declaration on September 1, 2027, President Toroama said practical investments in people and the economy are essential to achieving the region’s aspirations.He said the developments taking place across Bougainville demonstrated that the aspirations of its people were increasingly being realised through practical action.“The development in Bougainville is no longer just a dream, but it is now a reality, provided by the government to the people of Bougainville.” 

South Pacific (SP) Brewery has appointed Noel Pepemik as the new Brewery Manager for its Moresby Brewery, marking a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to develop local talent and create opportunities for Papua New Guineans to take on senior leadership roles.Mr. Pepemik’s appointment follows 14 years of dedication and professional growth within SP Brewery, with the role now successfully localized under his leadership.Originally from Boikin in East Sepik Province, Mr. Pepemik’s rise to one of SP Brewery’s senior operational positions is a testament to perseverance, commitment and continuous professional development.Reflecting on his journey, he said his early life was shaped by challenges, including the loss of his father when he was just 10 years old.“I faced many challenges growing up, especially when my father passed away when I was 10 years old, leaving my mother to raise me and my siblings.”“I had to take on responsibilities at a young age, but I was fortunate to have the support of my elder brother and his wife to complete my education.”He began his education at Boikin Primary School on the west coast of Wewak before attending Brandi Secondary School.He later graduated from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry.His interest in science and chemistry was sparked by two secondary school teachers whose passion for the subjects inspired him to pursue a career in the field.“My teachers in high school made Chemistry and Science fun. Even after lunch, when most students were tired, I looked forward to their classes.”“Their passion inspired me to pursue science and eventually major in Chemistry.”After graduating in 2011, Mr. Pepemik faced the challenge of finding his first job. His opportunity came in 2012 when he joined SP Brewery through its Graduate Development Program.“It’s never easy finding your first job as a fresh graduate, and I was no different. SP Brewery gave me my first opportunity through its Graduate Development Program, and I remain grateful for that,” he said.Since joining the company, he has progressed through a range of roles, including Brewing Supervisor, Brewing Manager in Lae in 2020, Packaging Manager, and Acting Brewery Manager in 2025. His latest appointment sees him take charge of the Moresby Brewery.He said his career development had required significant personal commitment, including spending time outside normal working hours on training and professional development.“Many sacrifices were made along the way. Time was one of the biggest.”“I spent countless hours developing myself, often coming to work on weekends and days off to complete training and other development activities without expecting extra pay. That was my personal commitment to growth.”Mr. Pepemik credited SP Brewery’s training and development programs for helping him build his career.“SP Brewery has excellent training and development platforms that provide clear pathways for my career growth. This company has helped shape me into the professional I am today.”As he steps into his new role, Mr. Pepemik also acknowledged the mentors who supported him throughout his career, including the late Kuri Yuwai, Gia Vela, and Stella Ikasa.“This business has given me the opportunity to learn from the best professionals in the brewing industry.”“They created a supportive environment that felt like family and made coming to work something to look forward to every day.”For Mr. Pepemik, leadership is also about creating opportunities for others.He identified mentoring junior employees who have since progressed into management positions as one of his proudest achievements.“I believe that before you move up, you must prepare others to move up with you. Leadership is not only about your own success but about ensuring those around you are ready to take the next step.”He encouraged young Papua New Guineans seeking careers with SP Brewery to embrace opportunities for learning and professional development.“SP Brewery is a great place to work. Embrace every opportunity to learn, work hard and stay committed to your goals.”“The standards, systems and ways of working are second to none in Papua New Guinea.”“Commitment, discipline and a willingness to continuously develop yourself are the key to building a successful career here.”Mr. Pepemik’s appointment highlights SP Brewery’s continued investment in local talent and the development of Papua New Guinean professionals into leadership positions within the company.

The Rabaul District Administration has partnered with Devine Management Services (DMS) Limited, a local agri-company specializing in buying Galip nut (Canarium indicum). Supported by K50, 000 in funding from the district, DMS Ltd is rolling out a program across three Local Level Governments (LLGs) in the Rabaul District: Watom Island LLG, Balanataman LLG, and Kabiu LLG.The District District Primary Industry (DPI) sector and DMS Ltd have already completed initial galip tree stock surveys and awareness campaigns in Watom and Balanataman LLGs, with field operations scheduled to expand to Kabiu LLG in September.Participating Kabiu LLG origin wards include Baai, Nordup, Matalau, Rakunat, Rabuna, Korere 1, and Korere 2.During a galip nut training conducted today at the district headquarters in Kurakakaul for Kabiu LLG community leaders and farmers, DMS Ltd Project Manager Genevieve Luana said the goal of the program is to evaluate the existing galip tree stock in the district and encourage local communities to view the galip nut not just as a native delicacy, but as a high-value commercial product.“Once we completed all surveys on the bearing and non-bearing galip trees in the respective communities and have conducted awareness on the product then we can identify a central location for a galip nut buying point for Rabaul district,” Luana said.She added that at the moment there is only one DMS buying point located at Kokopo Market that is buying galip nuts at K15 per kilogram. Luana further stated that the awareness will cover topics such as identifying a good galip nut, preferred harvesting and processing techniques, packaging for buyers and their requirements, as well as safe handling and hygiene practices.DMS Ltd Enumerator and Field Officer Roboam Akai, who was also present at the training, encouraged ward members, ward recorders, and other community leaders to utilize the Galip Nut Manual distributed to them and learn more about the product.Meanwhile, District Administrator Freddy Lemeki has commended the initiative between the district and DMS Ltd, stressing that such public-private partnerships are crucial in assisting local farmers and the economy.

New Ireland Governor James Byron Chan has revived the province’s Old Age and Disability Pension, restoring a policy established under the leadership of his late father, former Governor and former Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Julius Chan.The pension scheme was temporarily shelved following the passing of Sir Julius Chan but has now been reinstated after Byron Chan won the New Ireland by-election earlier this year.The policy is aimed at supporting elderly and people living with disabilities across the province, providing financial assistance to those who have limited capacity to support themselves.Governor Chan said the pension was part of his commitment to New Irelanders who have spent their lives contributing to their families, communities and the development of New Ireland and Papua New Guinea.“It is only rightful that their perseverance that made us to be who we are today is compensated, given their limited abilities now that age is catching up.”He said elderly New Irelanders had contributed in many ways to the development of the province and the country, including raising families and supporting their communities.Governor Chan also acknowledged people living with disabilities, saying the pension would provide additional support while their families continue to assist them with their daily needs.The governor said the restoration of the pension was not about politics or demonstrating status, but about delivering services and supporting people in need.Old Age and Disability Pension payments are now being rolled out across the province following the launch at Muliama Village in the Matalai Local Level Government area of Namatanai District over the weekend.

Australia’s Team Up partners recently marked Safe Sports Day 2026 in Port Moresby, bringing together volunteer coaches, referees and young leaders to encourage safe, inclusive and respectful sporting environments for youngsters.The event was held at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre on August 7 under this year’s theme, “Stand up. Speak out. Play your part.”The day focused on helping children and young people recognise safe and unsafe behaviour, speak up about concerns, and seek support from trusted adults.Team Up partners, including Inclusive GymBad, PNG Football Association’s Just Play, PNG Hockey’s Hookin4Health, One Netball, AFL PNG’s Pilai Long Senis and League Bilong Laif, delivered interactive sports activities centred on respect, inclusion, teamwork and kindness.Pilai Long Senis Program Coordinator Jill Ravusiro said safeguarding must remain a key part of all sporting activities.“The impact of sport is measured not only by the skills we teach, but by the lives we protect.”She said every clinic, conversation, and interaction with children was an opportunity to contribute to a safer future.“Through Pilai Long Senis, safeguarding is part of everything we do, ensuring every child is protected, respected, included and empowered to thrive on and off the field.”Safeguarding efforts also extend to the Kicks for Kokoda program, which recently delivered child safeguarding and protection training with its implementing partner, the PNG Olympic Committee.The training covered child safeguarding principles, identifying signs of child harm, safe coaching practices, and reporting procedures.Kicks for Kokoda Program Coordinator Basil Jofari said equipping PNG Olympic Committee HERO athletes with safeguarding knowledge was important to ensure those working with young people understood their responsibilities.“Everyone involved in Kicks for Kokoda has a role to play in helping young people learn, play and grow in safe and inclusive environments.”

The U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea’s civil-military partners have launched a major four-day disaster management and humanitarian assistance field training exercise in Morobe Province.The exercise, which officially began yesterday, Tuesday, August 11th, will run across multiple locations in Lae city, all the way to Friday, August 14th. It is designed to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s provincial capacity to respond quickly and effectively to natural and maritime emergencies.The training is being led by the U.S. Pacific Command’s Center for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (CFE-DM), in coordination with the Wisconsin National Guard, Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), National Disaster Centre (NDC), and National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA).The exercise aims to establish stronger province-level disaster response coordination systems that can be rapidly activated during emergencies.“Disaster preparedness is the ultimate expression of our shared commitment to regional security, and this field training ensures that our forces work as a unified team to save lives and protect vulnerable communities,” said James Kenwolf, CFE-DM Training and Engagements Branch Chief.Morobe Province was selected as a key training location because of its exposure to a range of natural hazards, including riverine flooding, landslides and drought.Participants will take part in practical drills designed to test coordination between government agencies, security forces, humanitarian organizations and other emergency responders.Among the activities will be oil spill response operations at the Port of Lae, as well as search-and-rescue exercises, displaced population management and medical emergency response at the PNGDF Engineering Battalion’s Igam Barracks.The exercise brings together a broad network of local, national and international organizations.Participating organizations include the Morobe Provincial Government, Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society, International Organization for Migration (IOM), Spirit of America and World Vision.International participants include personnel and experts from the Wisconsin National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Army Pacific’s Oceania Engagement Team.U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Andy Covington said conducting the training at the provincial level would help strengthen PNG’s ability to lead its own disaster response operations.“By bringing practical training directly to the provincial level, we are reinforcing the sovereign capacity of Papua New Guinea’s first responders to lead disaster response efforts independently and efficiently,” Covington said.Beyond saving lives, organizers say stronger disaster preparedness can also protect economic development and reduce the long-term financial impact of natural disasters.Research cited by the organizers indicates that every dollar invested in disaster preparedness can prevent up to seven dollars in future losses.For communities vulnerable to disasters, effective preparation can help ensure that limited development resources remain available for essential services such as schools, healthcare and infrastructure rather than being redirected toward disaster recovery.The Lae exercise is intended to strengthen coordination and practical response capabilities while providing participants with experience working together during complex emergencies.The training also highlights the growing importance of cooperation between Papua New Guinea and the United States in strengthening disaster preparedness, humanitarian assistance and regional resilience.

The International Solar Alliance will establish a Solar Technology Application Resource Centre at Don Bosco Technological Institute in Port Moresby as Papua New Guinea strengthens its partnership with the global solar energy organisation.The STAR-C will train students and workers to install, operate and maintain solar power systems, supporting Papua New Guinea's plans to expand solar energy and build the technical skills needed to deploy the technology across the country.The announcement was made during a high-level and technical ISA mission to Papua New Guinea from Aug. 4 to 7, led by ISA Director General Ashish Khanna.During the mission, the ISA delegation met with government ministers, energy utilities, industrial energy users, academic institutions and development finance partners to advance projects under the Country Partnership Framework signed between ISA and Papua New Guinea in 2025.The delegation also visited Don Bosco Technological Institute, where it engaged with faculty and students on the skills, curricula and certification pathways that will be supported through the new centre.The STAR-C builds on training already provided by ISA to participants from Papua New Guinea and is intended to establish a larger and sustained technical capacity-building program.Prime Minister James Marape said the partnership provides a practical pathway for Papua New Guinea to strengthen energy security.“Energy security sits at the centre of Papua New Guinea's development ambitions, and our partnership with the International Solar Alliance gives us a practical route towards it. The Country Partnership Framework has moved from agreement to action, with project assessments underway and a training centre now announced in Port Moresby. My government will continue to work with ISA, our utilities, our industries, and our financing partners to turn this pipeline into power for our people.”Energy Minister Peter Namea Isoaimo said solar energy could help expand electricity access across the country's islands and remote communities while reducing dependence on imported fuel.“Papua New Guinea's people live across hundreds of islands and highland communities, and too many of them still wait for reliable power. Solar allows us to reach them faster and at lower cost than any other option, and it shields our households and industries from the price of imported fuel. Working with the International Solar Alliance, we are putting in place the regulation, the projects, and now the skills base that will carry this transition forward.”Khanna said Papua New Guinea has significant potential to use solar energy to improve electricity access and support economic development.“Papua New Guinea demonstrates the transformative potential of solar energy in addressing the unique challenges of island nations and remote communities as exemplified by ISA’s SIDS program for bringing together island countries for shared knowledge and project pipeline.”He said the partnership would support solar rooftops, mini-grids, larger solar projects and the development of a national solar energy roadmap, alongside the STAR-C at Don Bosco.The ISA delegation also visited a solar power plant with a Battery Energy Storage System at the Napa Napa refinery, where solar-plus-storage technology is being used to supply an industrial load.The visit highlighted the potential for solar and battery storage to support industrial users while reducing reliance on imported diesel and other fossil fuels.As part of the Country Partnership Framework, ISA has also assessed the feasibility of two proposed 50-megawatt solar projects and is supporting Papua New Guinea in developing the regulatory framework needed to expand solar technologies.The delegation held discussions with the World Bank Group and the Asian Development Bank on potential financing pathways for a pipeline of bankable solar projects.The mission also examined opportunities to expand solar deployment across Papua New Guinea, strengthen regulations for rooftop solar and develop solar and storage solutions for energy-intensive industries such as mining.ISA said the mission is expected to strengthen cooperation with the Papua New Guinea Government and establish a pipeline of priority projects and technical assistance under the Country Partnership Framework.The Papua New Guinea visit forms part of a wider ISA mission across the Pacific, including Fiji, Vanuatu and Kiribati.

Bel isi PNG Inc. has appointed a new Board of Directors following confirmation at its third Annual General Meeting on May 29, 2026, and the formalization of recent leadership transitions.The restructured board brings expertise in governance, compliance, security, business and development to support Bel isi PNG’s work in family violence prevention and workplace well-being.Executive Director Pansy Taueni-Sialis welcomed the appointments, saying the strengthened board would help guide the organization into its next phase.“I am delighted to introduce a strengthened and highly capable board as we enter an exciting new chapter for our organization,” Taueni-Sialis said.She said the board’s experience and diversity would support Bel isi PNG’s work across the country.Doreen Iga has been appointed Board Chair. She is the Executive Director of the Building Community Engagement Program, managed by DT Global, and has held senior roles with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, the Australian High Commission and CARE International.Former Board Chair Sir Robin Fleming, KBE CSM, has been elected an honorary board member. He has more than four decades of banking experience, including serving as Group CEO and Managing Director of BSP Financial Group Ltd., and previously led the Bel isi PNG board.Vandhna Narayan, Group Chief Compliance Officer at BSP Financial Group Ltd., has joined the board. She brings experience in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, risk management and human rights law, including previous work with the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement and Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre.G4S Secure Solutions (PNG) Ltd. General Manager Kevin Dauda has also joined the board as a business and partner representative. He brings experience in commercial operations, security risk management and workplace safety.Navara Kiene, Head of Programs and Partnerships at Santos Foundation, completes the new appointments. She has nearly two decades of development experience in gender equality, disability and social inclusion, and family and sexual violence prevention.Kiene is also supporting the management transition of the Bel isi program.

Australia has strengthened its support for disaster preparedness in Papua New Guinea with the handover of specialist earthquake monitoring equipment under the LaeShakeAware project.The equipment was transported from Australia aboard Australian Defence Vessel (ADV) Reliant and formally handed over at Lae Port on Saturday, 7 August, in a move aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea’s ability to monitor, understand and respond to earthquake hazards.The new equipment will support a community-based seismic monitoring network, providing more timely local information following earthquake events and helping disaster authorities better assess impacts and prioritise assistance.The initiative is particularly focused on Morobe Province, one of Papua New Guinea’s areas exposed to seismic activity, while also contributing to broader national disaster preparedness efforts.LaeShakeAware is funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and led by Geoscience Australia in partnership with the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT), the Mineral Resources Authority, the Morobe Provincial Disaster Office and local communities. The project aims to strengthen earthquake monitoring, disaster preparedness and community safety by connecting scientific data with local decision-making and community response. Australia’s Consul-General in Lae, Brenton Kanowski, said the equipment handover demonstrated Australia’s commitment to working alongside Papua New Guinea to strengthen resilience against natural hazards. “Papua New Guinea is one of the most seismically active countries in the world. Through LaeShakeAware, Australia is supporting PNG institutions and communities with the tools, knowledge and partnerships needed to better understand earthquake risk and respond effectively when disasters occur,” Kanowski said. The project is also expected to strengthen local technical and scientific capacity, including opportunities for PNG researchers and future scientists to develop expertise in earthquake monitoring and disaster risk reduction. Vice Chancellor of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, Professor Ora Rengai OL OBE, welcomed the handover and highlighted the importance of collaboration between universities, government agencies, communities and technical partners. “This LaeShakeAware initiative demonstrates what can be achieved when universities, government agencies, communities and technical partners work together,” Professor Rengai said. He said the equipment would strengthen the university’s research and monitoring capabilities while supporting the development of future PNG scientists.The initiative is part of Australia’s wider support for disaster risk management in Papua New Guinea through Geoscience Australia, which works with PNG institutions to improve technical capability and access to scientific information that can support safer and more resilient communities.The arrival of ADV Reliant in Lae also comes as Australia continues broader engagement with Papua New Guinea.HMAS Leeuwin recently arrived in Lae to support joint activities involving the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and Australian Defence Force (ADF).Together, the engagements highlight the breadth of cooperation between the two countries, extending from disaster preparedness and scientific capability to security and resilience.The LaeShakeAware project is expected to play an important role in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s ability to prepare for and respond to earthquakes by bringing together science, technology, government decision-making and community knowledge.For Morobe Province and communities vulnerable to seismic hazards, the improved monitoring capability could provide critical information when earthquakes occur, helping authorities make faster and better-informed decisions during emergencies.Australia and Papua New Guinea have maintained a long-standing partnership focused on strengthening institutions, supporting safer communities and building resilience to natural hazards.Through LaeShakeAware, that partnership is now being translated into practical tools and local expertise aimed at reducing earthquake risk and improving preparedness across Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea’s first narrative feature film, Tukana- Husat I Asua, made its return more than forty years after its initial release in 1982.Communities across Bougainville celebrated after the film returned in late July and early August with community screenings in Tinputz, Buka, Arawa, and Buin.Supported by the Autonomous Bougainville Government through the Bougainville Arts, Culture and Tourism Authority, and Australia, the screening tour brought communities together to revisit a film that remains an important part of Bougainville’s cultural history.The film was restored with the assistance of Australia’s National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) in partnership with Spectrum Films, with support from the Australian Government.Madeleine Moss, Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor said the restoration would help preserve an important piece of Bougainville’s heritage.“The restoration of Tukana safeguards a crucial part of Bougainville’s cultural history, allowing its story to continue educating, inspiring and connecting communities for future generations.”A tour was also held led by Head of the Australian Development Office in Buka, Ms. Greer Smith, which began in Tinputz, home of the late Albert Toro, the film’s writer, director, and lead actor.Family members, friends, and community members met at Bougainville Technical College to honour his legacy and celebrate his contribution to storytelling in Bougainville.Willie Oscar, one of the attendees to the film’s screenings, said the film’s message remains relevant in the present time.“After watching Tukana, the message for young people today is to respect and listen to our parents and elders, so we can learn from their experiences and build a better future.”He added that the film also taught the importance of education, respecting culture, and traditions, pursuing aspirations, and staying connected to one's roots.Tukana – husat i asua is generally recognized as one of the country’s first feature films and a milestone in the nation’s cinematic history.The restored version was gifted to Papua New Guinea’s National Film Institute as part of the country’s 50th Independence celebrations.

PNG will not assemble a national team for the 2026 Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s Cup unless outstanding financial obligations to players, officials and stakeholders are fully settled.PNGFA President John Kapi Natto said the association would not nominate or assemble a national team for the tournament, which is scheduled to be hosted by Fiji from September 17 to October 3, until outstanding player allowances, prize money, reimbursements and other financial commitments from previous competitions have been addressed.The outstanding obligations include payments arising from the 2024 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Solomon Islands, including allowances owed to players and team officials.They also include outstanding payments from the 2025 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup hosted in Papua New Guinea, where the PNG Bilums won the inaugural women’s title while the PNG Kapuls finished runners-up in the men’s competition.PNGFA said there are also outstanding reimbursements owed to the association and other stakeholders who contributed financially or in-kind to the successful staging of the 2025 tournament in Papua New Guinea.In addition, the association said all financial commitments associated with PNG’s participation in the 2026 competition must be secured before any national team departs for Fiji.Natto said the decision had not been taken lightly but was necessary to protect the welfare and interests of players and officials who had represented the country.“Our players and officials have represented Papua New Guinea with pride, discipline and commitment. They fulfilled their obligations to the country, and it is only fair that commitments made to them are honored in return,” Natto said.He said PNGFA could not ask players and officials to participate in another regional tournament while previous allowances, reimbursements and other agreed entitlements remained unpaid.The PNGFA president said the position was also consistent with the association’s responsibilities as Papua New Guinea’s national governing body for football.As a FIFA Member Association, PNGFA said it has a responsibility to safeguard football, protect the interests of players and administer the sport responsibly and transparently.Despite the decision, Natto stressed that PNGFA remained supportive of the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup and its role in promoting football development, regional cooperation and unity among Melanesian nations.“This decision should not be interpreted as opposition to the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup, the MSG Secretariat, OFC, FIFA, or our Melanesian neighbours,” he said.Natto also acknowledged the achievements of PNG’s national teams at the 2025 tournament, saying the Bilums’ historic championship victory and the Kapuls’ runners-up finish had brought pride to the country.He said PNGFA remained hopeful that discussions with the relevant authorities and stakeholders would result in a timely resolution.“We remain ready and willing to participate once all outstanding obligations have been resolved,” Natto said.The 2026 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup is scheduled to take place in Fiji from September 17 to October 3.PNGFA said it would continue advocating for the welfare of its national players and officials while working with stakeholders to resolve the outstanding financial matters.