The prime minister is looking to make the Papua New Guinea (PNG) culture of polygamy illegal with potential jail time in an effort to protect the women folk in the country.Prime Minister (PM) James Marape announced his intention to pursue Legislation that will outlaw Polygamy in Papua New Guinea in the future, describing the move as part of a broader national effort to protect Women, strengthen families, and restore respect for Mothers and Daughters across the country.Marape emphasized that while Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural traditions must be respected, certain practices that undermine the dignity and security of Women must be addressed through National Reform. “Some good aspects of our culture must be preserved, but other practices that harm our families must be left behind,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Polygamy is one such issue that has contributed to many broken homes, children being left without proper support, and Women being treated unfairly.” PM Marape said he intends to present a Policy Paper to the National Executive Council (NEC) to begin the process of introducing Legislation that would outlaw Polygamy in the future, with the proposed Law expected to take effect from around 2030 onward. Under the proposed approach, existing arrangements would not be automatically invalidated, but the Law would prohibit new polygamous arrangements in the future. “This is a Reform that we must consider carefully, but it is necessary if we are to protect the mothers and daughters of our country,” he said. “The Law we propose will ensure that going forward, Polygamy will no longer be practiced in our country.” The Prime Minister said the proposal reflects the Government’s commitment to addressing deeper social causes of Gender-Based Violence and inequality. He emphasized that Women must no longer be viewed as property or commodities within society. Prime Minister Marape noted that the proposed Law would also reinforce protections for Women within families, particularly in ensuring that Wives and Children are not abandoned or left without proper support. 

Market Force a community empowerment initiative founded by Sylvia Pascoe under Pom City Markets and Pascoe Events & Marketing, earlier this month, donated cleaning supplies valued at K1,240.09 to the Paule Erima Youth group in the Northeast electorate aiming to support their youth led cleanup.This clean-up will not only benefit the environment but also encourage young people to take pride in their community. David Balbe, a resident of Paule Erima for over 20 years, received the supplies on behalf of the youths. After seeing the Market Force initiative on Facebook, he reached out with a plan to organize a youth clean-up program in Paule Erima. Market Force partnered with Mr. Balbe to gather the materials needed to launch the program. Sylvia Pascoe said the initiative echoes a leadership philosophy focused on empowering communities to lead their own solutions. “Across Port Moresby there are already incredible people in every neighbourhood trying to improve their communities.” “I like to recognize the leaders already stepping up and give them the support and visibility they deserve, we are a better community when we are better neighbours, helping each other where we can.” Pascoe said that Market Force was set up to spot, support, and celebrate local community champions, offering small yet impactful assistance to help their initiatives thrive. Market Force Project Coordinator Yvonne Morgan, who collaborates with communities through Pom City Markets, added that the program keeps discovering inspiring grassroots leaders.  “We see people like Mr. Balbe all over the city, individuals who care deeply about their neighbourhoods and want to make things better.” “Market Force exists to support those leaders and give them the tools to bring their communities together.” Market Force is part of the wider Pom City Markets network, which brings together SMEs, youth groups, and community leaders through regular market events across Port Moresby. Anyone interested in joining the initiative can connect with Yvonne Morgan and the Market Force team at upcoming Pom City Markets, held monthly at the Harbourside Night Market, New Chinatown Market, and the National Museum & Art Gallery. Community members are encouraged to share their own local projects and ideas with the team. For the latest updates on market dates and locations, follow the Pom City Markets Facebook page. Guided by the motto, “A Force of Good in Every Neighbourhood,” Market Force also welcomes supporters, donors, and sponsors who want to work through the network, because together, the impact is greater.

Bank South Pacific (BSP) has donated medical supplies valued at K120,000 to the Metoreia Urban Health Centre in the National Capital District as part of its 2025 community project program. The donation was made possible through the combined efforts of four BSP business units, each contributing K30,000 from their community project funds to procure essential medical items. The supplies include needles, disposable syringes, emergency pharmaceuticals, and specialized equipment for dental, optometry and maternity wards. The donation also includes labour ward kits and other medical consumables aimed at strengthening the clinic’s capacity to deliver essential healthcare services to the community. BSP Group General Manager for Corporate Affairs and Community, Ms. Hari Rabura, said the bank recognizes the challenges many people face in accessing reliable and affordable healthcare. “By strengthening the clinic’s inventory, BSP is helping to ensure that these vital services remain within reach for the many residents who depend on the Metoreia Clinic,” Ms. Rabura said. Clinic Manager for Metoreia Urban Health Centre, HEO Regina Wuri, also acknowledged the impact of the donation. “These supplies will greatly enhance our ability to serve patients more effectively, especially in critical areas such as maternity, dental, and emergency care. We are deeply grateful to BSP for recognizing our needs and supporting the clinic in its mission to provide quality healthcare to the community,” Ms. Wuri said. Chief Executive Officer of the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority, Dr Robin Oge, expressed appreciation for the support. “This generous donation from BSP comes at a critical time for the Metoreia Urban Health Centre. It not only replenishes essential supplies but also reinforces our shared commitment to ensuring that every resident has access to quality healthcare. On behalf of NCDPHA, I extend our sincere gratitude to BSP for standing with us in service to the people of Port Moresby,” Dr Oge said.

Maintenance work at Teptep Health Centre in Rai Coast District in Madang province has been completed. The upgrade improves health services for people in Teptep village and nearby communities. The work was funded by the Rai Coast District Development Authority and finished earlier this year.Health services remain limited in many parts of Rai Coast. Mountainous terrain and poor roads make it difficult for villagers to reach clinics. Many people travel long distances to seek treatment.Rai Coast MP Kessy Sawang said improving rural health facilities remains a priority.“People in remote communities deserve access to basic health services,” Sawang said.“The maintenance of Teptep Health Centre will help families receive treatment closer to home.”The health centre provides primary care for several surrounding villages. Health workers are expected to deliver services in a safer and more reliable facility following the upgrade.The district authority says it will continue supporting health infrastructure projects across Rai Coast.

PNG Tribal Foundation has clarified that it is not responsible for bringing renowned American neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson to Papua New Guinea. Foundation President GT Bustin made the clarification following media reports claiming that PNG Tribal Foundation was organizing Dr Carson’s visit to the country in July for a leadership summit. Mr. Bustin said the event will be organized by the PNG Leaders Seminar, which will host Dr . Carson during the leadership summit scheduled for July. “I made the announcement during one Live2Lead Conference using the platform to support the organizing committee that is preparing for the seminar,” Mr. Bustin said. He urged journalists to verify information with PNG Tribal Foundation before publishing such reports relating to the organization. Mr. Bustin added that those interested in attending the leadership seminar in July should contact the PNG Leaders Seminar team for further information.

A wanted suspect was shot and wounded during a police raid in Madang on Tuesday 10th March.Police targeted Marap settlement along North Coast Road after receiving reports of criminal activity. Units from the Tactical Crime Unit and National Criminal Intelligence Unit led the operation.Officers found five men gathered in the area. One of them was a wanted suspect linked to serious crimes in the province.The man resisted arrest and tried to flee. Police shot him during the confrontation. He was captured and taken to Madang Provincial Hospital for treatment.Madang provincial police commander Superintendent Robert Baim said the suspect will be taken into custody once released. “He will be taken to Jomba Police Station for questioning and further investigation,” he said.Police records show the suspect has been linked to armed robberies and a murder case in 2022, and another armed robbery last year.Baim said officers will continue operations in crime hotspots across the province. “We will keep working to stop criminals and keep the community safe,” he said.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher Landau, has met with Papua New Guinea Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko during the Pacific Agenda: Investment, Security and Shared Prosperity Summit to discuss strengthening economic ties and expanding U.S. support to PNG.The talks build on the Framework for Strategic Cooperation signed between the two countries in Port Moresby in September last year. Papua New Guinea already hosts several major American companies including ExxonMobil, Newmont, Coca-Cola and Hilton. These companies contribute to job creation, technical expertise and long-term investment in the country. Leaders at the summit also highlighted opportunities to increase U.S. investment in sectors such as critical minerals, infrastructure, health, telecommunications and security. During their bilateral meeting, discussions focused on strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two nations and identifying new areas for economic cooperation. U.S. assistance to PNG includes about $87 million (K378 million) in health programs since 2001. In addition, $4.25 million (K18.5 million) has been provided through the HALO Trust to clear unexploded ordnance, allowing land to be safely used for development, agriculture and tourism. The leaders also discussed ongoing defence cooperation under the Defence Cooperation Agreement and the Ship Rider Agreement, as well as the need to strengthen PNG’s ICT sector to attract further investment. Across the Pacific Islands, U.S. economic engagement has totaled more than $53 billion over the past 11 years, with more than 90 percent coming from private investment and trade. The three-day summit, held at the East-West Center in Honolulu, was co-led by Deputy Secretary Landau and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo. It brought together government leaders, investors, businesses and financial institutions from across the Pacific to explore new economic opportunities for the region.

Two new staff houses were recently opened at Alain de Boismenu Junior High School in Wama, Kairuku District, Central Province as as part of the Central Provincial Government’s ongoing efforts to improve living conditions for teachers serving in rural and remote communities.The new homes are expected to ease this problem and help attract and retain teachers at the school as the lack of proper accommodation has long been a major challenge, consequentially discouraging teachers from accepting or remaining in postings outside urban centres. Principal Henry Aupu stated that the new houses will make a difference to the morale and stability of teachers serving the Wama community. “This is a first of its kind here and a very important development for our school, we are thankful to Governor Rufina and her administration team and all stakeholders who continue to assist the school.” “Teachers who serve in rural areas face many challenges, and decent accommodation is one of the biggest needs. “With these houses, our teachers will be able to focus more on their work and on delivering quality education to our students.” According to Aupu, Alain De Boismenu Junior High School plays caters to children from surrounding villages, including students who travel from the remote rural Mekeo LLG, parts of Kuni LLG, and Veimauri. Central Governor Rufina Peter called the project a result of “prudent investment by the Provincial Executive Council (PEC)” An investment that has strengthened education infrastructure in rural communities. “I acknowledge all the stakeholders, the Japanese Government, the Kairuku MP and DDA, and other donors who have supported the school to reach where it is today.” “I call upon this Government, all stakeholders and donors to continue working together in unity. Education reforms require our collective responsibility.” “It requires coordination, accountability and sustained commitment, and when we align our efforts, we see real, tangible results for our children.” Additionally, a ground-breaking ceremony was held for two new dormitories for boys and girls, each built to accommodate 80 students.

To mark World Book Day on March 6th, Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP), in partnership with Fincorp, donated 1,000 high-quality library books to St Theresa Primary School in Port Moresby, National Capital District.The donation was made through BbP’s School Library Re-establishment Program, which provides structured School Library Kits designed to help schools rebuild or strengthen their library facilities. The kits are available in curated collections of 1,000, 500, and 250 books, allowing schools of different sizes and budgets to benefit. The books cover a wide range of education levels—from elementary and primary to secondary, technical and tertiary institutions—supporting diverse learning needs and curricula. The kits also include titles published by BbP. Fincorp’s Head of Unsecured Sales, Adriaan De La Rey, together with a representative from Buk bilong Pikinini, presented the books to Ako Alex, Head Teacher of St Therese Primary School. Mr. De La Rey said the donation represented far more than just books. “These are not just 1,000 books but 1,000 stories and adventures.” He encouraged students to read widely, adding that knowledge gained through reading is something that cannot be taken away and can empower them to pursue any future they choose. BbP PR and Marketing Team Lead Mary Sawa thanked Fincorp for supporting the initiative. “We are grateful to Fincorp for supporting St Therese Primary School with a 1,000-book Primary School Library Kit through our School Library Re-establishment Program.” “This support will also benefit three other schools, bringing a total of 4,000 books to students across Papua New Guinea.” “Investing in children’s education is a noble act, and we encourage more organizations to help schools gain access to the books and libraries they need.” Meanwhile, Deputy Head Teacher Jane Dukaduka said the donation was timely as the school had been in urgent need of reading materials. “The school currently runs a reading program every Monday where students read for 30 minutes after assembly to discourage excessive screen time. This generous book donation will definitely give a boost to this program.” Access to quality books strengthens vocabulary, comprehension, critical thinking and confidence among students, while improving academic performance and nurturing a lifelong love of learning. On World Book Day, BbP is calling on more corporate organizations to support the development of functional school libraries across the country.

Prime Minister James Marape has expressed deep concern over reports that Papua New Guinea’s Chief Justice has been referred to a Leadership Tribunal, describing the development as an unprecedented matter involving one of the nation’s highest constitutional offices.Speaking on the matter, Prime Minister Marape said the Office of the Chief Justice represents the rule of law and the administration of justice in Papua New Guinea. “Any development affecting that office must be treated with the utmost seriousness and care,” he said.“The last place in our country where we would want such matters to arise is from the Office of the Chief Justice,” he added. “That office embodies our laws and the integrity of our judicial system. Any issue concerning it must be handled with the highest level of responsibility and respect for our constitutional processes.”The Prime Minister said he was informed of the development while in Angoram, East Sepik Province, and was taken by surprise. “I was in Angoram when I received the news. Like many Papua New Guineans, I was surprised by this development,” he said.In response, Prime Minister Marape has instructed the Chief Secretary to Government to convene an urgent meeting on Friday with senior officials to review the matter and safeguard the integrity of the judiciary and constitutional processes. Attendees will include the Chief Secretary, the Secretary for Justice and Attorney-General, the State Solicitor and the Secretary for Judicial Services.“This is not a light matter. It is unprecedented territory for our country. The referral of the Chief Justice – the head of the judiciary – raises serious constitutional considerations,” the Prime Minister said.He stressed that the Executive Government respects the independence of constitutional offices, including the Ombudsman Commission and will not interfere with their lawful duties. “I have no authority to compel the Ombudsman Commission or any constitutional office holder to carry out their duties. They must perform their functions independently and we respect that.”At the same time, Prime Minister Marape highlighted the Government’s responsibility to understand the circumstances surrounding the referral and ensure the judiciary’s institutional integrity is protected. “Our judiciary has been the anchor of our democracy since Independence. It has upheld the rule of law and maintained stability within our constitutional system,” he said.Acknowledging the Chief Justice’s long-standing service, the Prime Minister added: “The Chief Justice has served our country for more than 40 years with distinction. From what I know of him, he has carried himself with integrity throughout his career.”Prime Minister Marape said the Government will seek a full briefing on the referral while continuing to respect the Constitution and the independence of the judiciary. “Our focus is to ensure the Office of the Chief Justice is not unnecessarily brought into disrepute, while fully respecting legal processes and the role of independent constitutional bodies,” he said.The Prime Minister confirmed that the Government will continue to monitor developments closely.

Michael Harrison, Board Chairman of Cricket Papua New Guinea (PNG), has commended the nation’s women cricketers for their achievements and resilience as the country marks International Women’s Day 2026.In a message to colleagues and cricket enthusiasts worldwide, Harrison reflected on the significance of the day, emphasizing that it is not just a date on the calendar, but a moment to honour the courage, determination, and brilliance of women everywhere.“Cricket in Papua New Guinea is more than a game – it is a bridge between communities, a classroom for skills, and a stage where dreams take flight,” Harrison said. He praised the PNG Lewas, the nation’s premier women’s cricket team, for their remarkable achievements on and off the field. “Our women’s teams have shown that determination knows no boundaries and talent knows no gender,” he said.Harrison highlighted that the pursuit of equality extends beyond borders. “Whether in Port Moresby, Mumbai, London, or Cape Town, the story is the same: when women are given the opportunity, they inspire generations,” he said. He noted that PNG’s women cricketers have broken records, motivated young girls in both urban and rural areas, and become role models in leadership, discipline and unity.The chairman also acknowledged that challenges remain. He called for continued investment in grassroots programs, equal access to cricket facilities and encouragement for every girl who picks up a bat or ball to feel included and empowered. Harrison stressed the importance of ensuring that the next generation of women cricketers has the support and resources needed to thrive.“Let us commit to a future where women in cricket – and at every level across all countries – are celebrated not just for overcoming barriers, but for thriving,” he said. Harrison concluded with a rallying message: “When women rise, cricket rises. And when cricket rises, the world becomes a little brighter.”Cricket PNG joins the global community in celebrating women this International Women’s Day, reaffirming its commitment to equality, opportunity and respect within the sport.

The Governor of East New Britain Province has reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to improving education standards while calling for stronger accountability from all stakeholders during the recent official handover of a new school truck to Utmei Secondary School.The presentation ceremony brought together school leaders, teachers, parents, students and community members from the Inland Baining area. The Governor acknowledged the contributions of the School Board of Governors, school administration, teachers, parents, citizens, students, the Inland Baining President, community leaders and Baining cultural performers for their warm welcome and continued support for education in the community. In a notable moment during the ceremony, the Governor allowed a Grade 12 student to deliver his official keynote address. Chris Sokip, the Vice Head Boy of Utmei Secondary School, addressed the gathering on behalf of the provincial leadership. The Governor said the gesture was meant to encourage young leaders and give students a voice in important community occasions. During his remarks, the Governor emphasized that the newly donated truck must be used strictly for its intended purpose of supporting student transportation and school development activities. “In light of recent reports from members of the public regarding misuse of previous school vehicles, the Provincial Transport Division is considering placing all school trucks under ‘P’ plate registration to ensure proper monitoring and accountability. “Government assets must be respected and used responsibly.” The Governor also addressed the broader performance of the education sector in East New Britain Province, noting a concerning decline in results in recent years. “While we acknowledge the challenges facing our schools, these challenges can no longer be used as excuses. We must change the way we have been operating.” He challenged teachers to maintain professionalism and punctuality, warning that absenteeism and lateness will not be tolerated. Parents were also urged to prioritise their children’s education by ensuring regular school attendance and proper discipline at home. Provincial authorities, school boards and administrators were encouraged to strengthen oversight and raise education standards across the province. Beyond education, the Governor urged communities to actively engage in agriculture as a pathway to economic growth. He highlighted key income-generating crops such as cocoa, coconut, oil palm, and balsa. He confirmed that the East New Britain Provincial Government has allocated funding under its 2026 Budget Economic Development Programs to support agricultural initiatives across the province’s four districts. “Our people must work their land. Agriculture remains the backbone of our provincial economy, and we are committed to supporting programs that increase production and household income.”