PNG Haus Bung

After the successful completion of stages 1-3 on the Kagamuga Airport, the National Airports Corporation (NAC) is advising the traveling public, airlines and stakeholders that runway works at the Mt Hagen (Kagamuga) Airport will now proceed to Stage 4 of works on Tuesday 4th August 2026. After successful completion of stages 1 to 3 this week, the stage 4 work will take approximately 15 days to complete, dependending on the weather mostly.NAC also advises that the available runway length during stage 4, will be 1380 meters, therefore it will not be able to accommodate jet aircraft such as the Fokker 100 and Fokker 70. However, it will be available for Q400, ATR, and smaller aircraft.These essential works are necessary to ensure that this important national project is progressing as planned, to enable the A220 / B737 operations into Mt. Hagen (Kagamuga) Airport by December 2026.The upgrade of the Mt Hagen Airport runway to asphalt concrete overlay, is among the top priorities driven by the NAC Board to create sustainable airports that meet the growing demand for air travel in the highlands region and the country while supporting economic growth.NAC Acting Managing Director and CEO, Dominic Kaumu said that the works will be implemented in accordance with the required standards whilst ensuring that the safety and security of operations at the airport during the period of works, are maintained.The asphalt overlay and associated works at the Mt Hagen Airport are currently being carried out in 13 stages, under an approved Method of Work Plan (MOWP).The general public and stakeholders are advised to take note of the schedule of works and plan your travel accordingly as the runway length will be further shortened in the coming weeks between August and October 2026 leading to further downsizing of aircrafts operating into Kagamuga Airport.NAC apologizes for any inconvenience that will be caused during this period, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work with all key stakeholders to complete this important project at Mt. Hagen (Kagamuga) airport.The Mount Hagen Asphalt overlay, and associated works project valued at K39.4 million was launched in April 2026 and is funded by the NAC and fully supported by the Government of PNG.

Mariners Women wrapped up their campaign in the Boroko Motors ISUZU Women's 50-Over Tournament with a convincing six-wicket win over Black Bass Women at Amini Park on Friday 31 July 2026.After winning the toss and electing field, Mariners produced a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Black Bass for 65 runs in 23.3 overs.Duna Alex led the bowling attack with 2 wickets for 16 runs from three overs, while captain Henao Jean Thomas claimed 2 for 20. Pauke Siaka also bowled economically, conceding just nine runs from four overs.Chasing a modest target of 66, Mariners recovered from an early wobble at 13 for 4 to comfortably reach 66 for 4 in 14 overs, securing victory with six wickets in hand.Player of the Match, Konio Oala anchored the successful chase with an unbeaten 33 off 32 deliveries, striking three fours and three sixes.Brenda Elly provided valuable support, remaining unbeaten on 9, as the pair guided Mariners to the target.Black Bass captain Henao Jean Thomas fought hard with the ball, taking 2 wickets, but Mariners' middle order remained composed to seal the win.The result concludes Round one of the Boroko Motors ISUZU Women's 50-Over Tournament, which featured Black Bass, Mariners and Cassowaries in a three-match competition aimed at providing valuable match experience for Cricket PNG's female athletes as they continue preparations for upcoming international commitments, including the PNG Lewas' future campaigns.Cricket PNG congratulates all players, coaches, match officials, volunteers, Major Sponsors Boroko Motors, and supporters for contributing to another successful women's domestic tournament, highlighting the continued growth and development of women's cricket in PNG.

Police in Enga have launched a recapture operation for the Twenty-five remandees who escaped from the Wabag Police station cell this week. Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Steven Harris stated that 25 suspects were captured and locked up at Wabag Police Station and nine out of these twenty- five (25) were on no bail no fine, awaiting court appearance when all 25 remandees escaped from the cell in the early hours of Wednesday 29, July 2026. Chief Superintendent Harris said the priority is to recover the escapees, and to get to the bottom of the incident.“A coordinated recapture operation is underway across the districts,” the PPC stated.“The escape remandees have limited options to hide, as we know their villages and their associates, so it is just a matter of time, and when we bring them back, they will face additional charges.""I call upon the leaders of their tribes and villages to assist in the recapture.”PPC Harris further added that if the escapees voluntarily surrender, then they are more likely to face less penalties.“If the escapees surrender, they will be served lesser penalties compared to police recapturing them. Our priority is always the safety and security of the public."Communities are urged to assist police in recapturing these escapees.Chief Superintendent Harris also highlighted that in light of the event there was a related public disturbance on the premises of Wabag police station, the disturbance was on claims of police misconduct, one person was arrested and charged with refusal to leave police premises and obstruction of police.PPC Harris confirmed this was and assured the public that there will be thorough investigation into claims of police misconduct which was laid by the public.“If there was any misconduct by any Police officers they will be dealt with as the law requires, an independent investigation has been ordered, the matter is now being referred to the Internal Affairs Division.“I make it my commitment to the people of Enga, that we will do all in our power to re capture the escapees, without fear or favor, get to the bottom of those involved.”

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) this week presented its 2026 Second Quarter Budget Review Report to the National Government at the Treasury Building in Port Moresby, reaffirming its commitment to fiscal accountability, performance reporting and compliance. Led by Deputy Secretary for Planning Dr Steven Kolova and Caretaker Secretary for Finance and Treasury Petrina Hasunn, the ABG delegation met with representatives from the National Departments of Treasury, Finance, Planning and Monitoring, Personnel Management and Administrative Services, and the National Economic and Fiscal Commission (NEFC).Speaking at the opening of the review, Deputy Secretary Dr Kolova said the quarterly consultations reflected the principles of joint commitment and joint implementation under the Bougainville Peace Agreement. “This consultation reinforces our shared accountability. ABG must present evidence-based development priorities and account for the use of public resources, while the National Government must support the timely allocation and release of those resources,” Dr Kolova said. Dr Kolova also acknowledged the recently launched NEFC Cost of Services Study, describing it as an important framework for understanding the resources required to support Bougainville's redevelopment and service delivery. The national agencies welcomed ABG's consistent submission of quarterly reports and its strengthened reporting framework.Discussions also focused on several key fiscal and service delivery issues, including the slow release of grants to ABG, funding for nurses' award obligations, outstanding teachers' liabilities, underfunding of Buka General Hospital, and the need for clearer guidelines on Restoration and Development Grants and Prime Minister's Commitments.Caretaker Secretary for Finance and Treasury Petrina Hasunn said ABG continued to strengthen its financial management systems.“The ABG continues to strengthen its commitment to compliance and accountability by ensuring that public funds are properly accounted for and reported against their intended purposes. This process also allows us to identify implementation challenges early and engage the relevant national agencies on practical solutions,” Ms Hasunn said.The Second Quarter Budget Review will inform preparations for the 2027 Budget and the Third Quarter Budget Review. 

United Church mission in Kieta celebrated100 years of Gospel in Kieta, Bougainville this week and Autonomous Region of Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama joined the United Church members to commemorate the centenary of the arrival of the Gospel in Kieta during celebrations held at Roreinang on Sunday and Kongara One on Monday this week. The gospel was first introduced to the Mountains of Kongara (Moru Village) by a missionary who came from Rataiku in Siwai. The missionaries brought the word of God and also brought education and health services to the people of Kieta, as they did in other parts of Bougainville. The United Church is the first revived Church in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, formed by members of the Papuan London Missionary Society based in the Papuan Region, and the Methodist Church based in the New Guinea Islands Region. His Excellency, who is from Roreinang, a mission station of the United Church, encouraged the people on Sunday to look after the assets that the missionaries set up in the villages.“When you look at the buildings, the missionaries did not just build the church; they built it with schools. To the teachers who are teaching in church-run institutions, either United Church, Catholic, or Seventh Day Adventist, you will see that these are the institutions they set up to educate us, and our job is to protect them.” In Konngara One (1), Dunara Primary School, Honorable Thomas Pataaku, ABG Member for Ramu and Minister responsible for Education, and ABG Member for Kongara Constituency, Earnestly Peter Tedu, joined the community speech day and ground-breaking ceremony for a new Community Hall. “I want to thank every one of you for coming today, ending the first one hundred years of the church in Kongara and bridging it to the next one hundred years," said Minister Pataaku. "Leaders of Kongara, pastors of Kongara, and everyone, this is the bridge you are building into a prosperous Kongara. This journey will take time, but we will get there.”Education is one of the most important sectors that echoed through his speech, as he encouraged the younger generation to take their education seriously to be the human resources of Kongara and Bougainville.  “You must learn, do not leave school, and always act in your best interest because in the next 30 years you will be leaders of this place.”Minister Pataaku reinforced the President's message by committing to the construction of a four-in-one classroom at Dunara Primary School.He expressed his views on how education must be valued not only in the classroom but in each home. He said that children learn not only from reading and writing but also from seeing the actions of adults; therefore, the parents must put effort into being the best role models for their children. “We want the best for you (students); that is why everything that we are going to do in Bougainville is because we want this place to change,” Minister Pataaku said.With the vast evolving technologies slowly being introduced into the rural villages, like Artificial Intelligence, he encouraged the students to use their God-given brains and talents and not solely rely on technology. “I believe that we should not allow AI to take over the brains God has given us; we can use those facilities but let us not allow such technical facilities to override how we use our brains.” As the government continues to move towards self-governance and independence, the churches, chiefs and local NGOs continue to commit themselves to providing services to the people of Bougainville.

What began as a personal journey through loss has evolved into an internationally recognized effort to promote cleaner indoor air and environmental sustainability, with Papua New Guinean entrepreneur Budo Magaru-Ilaitia receiving global recognition for her work.Magaru-Ilaitia, founder and chief executive officer of Crusaders Air Solution, has been recognised internationally in 2026 after years of developing plant-based indoor air quality solutions inspired by her family's experiences and her commitment to improving public health.Her entrepreneurial journey began in 2009 when her late husband established her first business, Koro Landscape Company (KLC), just three months before his passing. The company, named after the values of being "Kind, Loving and Caring," reflected her passion for supporting her family and creating healthier living environments through plants and landscaping.Despite an encouraging start, the business faced significant setbacks and ceased operations in 2012 following financial difficulties linked to political interference and corruption. Rather than leaving the business sector, Magaru-Ilaitia redirected her focus toward researching the role of plants in improving indoor air quality and supporting human wellbeing.The business was later renamed Crusaders, a title she says reflects her Christian faith, resilience and determination to overcome adversity. She describes the name as representing courage, discipline, and a commitment to serving her community.A turning point came in 2023 when Magaru-Ilaitia completed the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) programme delivered through the United States Embassy in Port Moresby. The programme strengthened her business and leadership skills and prompted a strategic shift in the company's direction.By 2024, the business had been rebranded as Crusaders Air Solution, moving beyond indoor plant hire to focus on nature-based solutions designed to improve indoor air quality while supporting environmental sustainability.Over the following two years, the company refined its approach, developing plant-based systems intended to create healthier indoor environments and contribute to broader discussions on climate resilience and sustainable development.The work attracted international recognition in 2026. Magaru-Ilaitia was named a finalist in the Women in Sustainability category at the Women Changing the World Awards in Paris and was appointed a Women Changing the World Ambassador for 2026. She later received the Cluster of Achievers – Business Leader Award 2026 during a ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia.According to Magaru-Ilaitia, the awards highlight the potential for Papua New Guinea to contribute innovative solutions to global environmental challenges."I carry Papua New Guinea wherever I go," she said. "These recognitions prove that world-class ideas can come from our country and that we have something valuable to contribute to the global conversation on sustainability."Crusaders Air Solution is now preparing to launch a pilot project with the Papua New Guinea Government aimed at advancing indoor air quality initiatives and supporting the country's participation in global environmental monitoring and data collection. The company has also secured intellectual sustainability rights for its plant-based methods.Magaru-Ilaitia said she hopes her international recognition will encourage greater national investment in indoor air quality, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.Beyond her business achievements, she hopes her story will inspire women and aspiring entrepreneurs to persevere despite personal and professional challenges."As the world searches for innovative environmental solutions, Papua New Guinea has an opportunity to contribute through locally developed ideas that address global challenges," she said.From overcoming personal loss to receiving international recognition, Magaru-Ilaitia's journey reflects the growing role of Papua New Guinean entrepreneurs in advancing sustainable development and environmental innovation on the global stage.

More than 41,000 Grade 12 students across Papua New Guinea will soon sit the 2026 Written Expression Examination on Monday, August 3, with the Department of Education confirming it is fully prepared to administer the national assessment.A total of 41,149 students from 249 secondary schools and seven National Schools of Excellence will take part in the examination, one of the key assessments for Grade 12 students.The Department said all examination papers and related materials have been delivered to provinces and schools ahead of the exam through the Measurement Services Division.Students also received their Written Expression Examination resource booklets on Monday, July 27, giving them a week to study the reading materials, examine the prompts and prepare their essays before the examination.Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra commended the Measurement Services Division, provincial education authorities and school principals for ensuring the timely distribution of the examination materials."This examination is a critical milestone for our Grade 12 students as they prepare for their future academic journeys.”"With the resource booklets now in their hands, I urge all students to utilize this week wisely, focus on their reading, and prepare thoroughly for Monday's exam."He also wished all 41,149 candidates across the country success as they prepare to sit the national exam next week.

The East New Britain Provincial Government has demonstrated support for rural education with the delivery of a new school truck to Malasait Primary School and the opening of a new classroom at Kasaska Primary School in the Inland Baining area of Gazelle District.Governor Michael Marum, accompanied by officials from the Gazelle District Administration, attended both events alongside the District Administrator, Local Level Government President, ward members and community leaders.Governor Marum emphasized the cruciality of services reaching even the remote parts of the province.“Too many times our people in these rural areas have been referred to as the ‘back page people’.”“Today, we are sending a clear message that every child, every school and every community matters.”The school truck to Malasait Primary School is expected to assist with transport for school operations while also supporting neighbouring schools across the Inland Baining area.At Kasaska Primary School, Governor Marum officially opened a new classroom built through a community-led effort spearheaded by Ward Member Mark Kalas.He praised the community for taking ownership of education development and demonstrating the impact of strong local leadership and partnerships.The Governor also urged parents to make full use of the improved facilities by ensuring their children attended school regularly."There is little value in building classrooms and providing school facilities if our children are not in school.”“As parents, we all have a responsibility to ensure our children make full use of these investments so they can build a better future for themselves and for East New Britain.”Governor Marum thanked the people of Inland Baining for their patience and resilience, acknowledging their continued support for development despite facing challenges over the years.During the ceremony, the Gazelle District Administrator announced that construction of a new two-in-one classroom for Kasaska Primary School would begin soon, further expanding education infrastructure in the area.Governor Marum reaffirmed that education remains a key priority for the East New Britain Provincial Government.“The East New Britain Provincial Government will continue working with districts, local communities and development partners to ensure every child, regardless of where they live, has access to quality education and the opportunities they deserve.”

The Management of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) wishes to address recent security concerns following events reported on the night of Saturday, 25 July, and the early hours of Sunday, 26 July 2026.At approximately 10:27 PM on Saturday, Campus Security received an alert from the management of the University Adventist Residential College (UARC) regarding potential criminal activity in the area.In response, the Chief Security Officer immediately mobilized additional security teams to reinforce personnel stationed at both UARC and the Catholic Residential College.Responding officers noted a commotion in the neighbouring community outside the University's perimeter. There was no attempt to breach the perimeter fence, enter the campus, or damage University property.Following the earlier incident on 18 July 2026, heightened anxiety persisted across the student body, particularly among female residents.As news of the off-campus disturbance spread rapidly via messaging platforms and social media, a group of male students moved toward the female dormitories to offer support.The rapid movement of students and surrounding uncertainty caused brief confusion on campus.While no security breach was confirmed inside the University, several female students reported seeing unidentified individuals near their residential areas.PNGUoT takes all student safety reports seriously. Security teams immediately conducted thorough searches and inspections across female residential facilities and surrounding grounds; no unauthorized individuals were located within the dormitories.Following the 18 July incident, PNGUoT implemented heightened security protocols, which remain actively enforced:Increased security personnel around student residential areas;Enhanced overnight security patrols;Strengthened perimeter monitoring;Closer coordination with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary;Additional security presence around female residential colleges.The University continues to work closely with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and other relevant authorities in relation to both the 18 July incident and the events reported over the weekend.A comprehensive review of all campus security operations is currently underway to identify potential vulnerabilities and implement further protective measures.PNGUoT urges students, staff, parents, and the public to rely exclusively on official, verified communication channels.During the incident, unverified claims and unrelated media circulated widely online. Notably, a photo falsely claiming that a suspect tied to the PNGUoT incident had been apprehended is completely false and unrelated to the University.Misinformation during sensitive times creates unnecessary panic, and we urge everyone to exercise responsibility on social media.PNGUoT Management assures students, parents, guardians, staff, and the community that the safety and well-being of every campus resident remain its highest priority.The Management continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to maintain a secure learning and working environments for all.

Morobe police are investigating a wilful murder that occurred at Namasali Compound in Wau-Waria District, Morobe Province, during the early hours of Friday, July 24, 2026.Morobe Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Samson Siguyaru, confirmed that initial investigations indicate a group of unknown suspects allegedly entered the home of Mr. Aundre Eremas between midnight and 1:00 AM with the intention of robbing him.PPC Siguyaru said Mr. Eremas, who was believed to be a gold buyer, attempted to defend himself but was attacked with bush knives and later died from his injuries.Police attended the scene and conducted preliminary investigations before commencing a full murder investigation.The body of the deceased was transported to the Angau Memorial Hospital Morgue in Lae on Saturday, July 25, 2026.PPC Siguyaru confirmed that the police have identified the suspected individuals believed to be involved in the killing and are calling on them to surrender.“Police have identified the whereabouts of those suspects who were believed to be involved in the wilful murder.”“I appeal to the community leaders, relatives and members of the public to encourage the suspects to surrender themselves to the police.”“Anyone with the information that may assist the police investigation is urged to report it to the nearest police station.”He condemned the killing, saying violence and taking of human life must not become a norm within communities.“This act of senseless killing is deeply concerning. Violence and taking human life are not accepted as normal in our communities.”“Every life is valuable, and those responsible will be pursued and brought before the courts.”He urged residents to remain vigilant and take extra precautions while at home and travelling, adding that police have increased mobile patrols and visibility across the province.Meanwhile, PPC Siguyaru acknowledged that the Morobe Provincial Police Command continues to face major resource challenges.He stated that current police-to-population ratio in Morobe is approximately one police officer for every 8,000 people, making it difficult for police to maintain a presence in every community at all times.Therefore, he appealed for stronger cooperation from community leaders and residents to assist police in preventing crime and bringing offenders to justice.Public support remains critical in creating safer communities across Morobe Province.

Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality, Michelle O’Byrne, is visiting Papua New Guinea to strengthen bilateral partnerships focused on advancing women’s leadership, economic empowerment, gender equality, and efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.During her visit to Port Moresby, Lae, and Mt Hagen, Ambassador O’Byrne will meet with women leaders, civil society organisations, frontline service providers, business representatives, young people, and government officials working to improve opportunities and outcomes for women and girls across the country.The visit will provide the Ambassador with an opportunity to observe Australia’s support for initiatives that promote women’s leadership, economic participation, and community safety through the Australia–PNG Partnership.Her itinerary includes visits to the Bel isi Case Management Centre, the Women’s Business Resource Centre, women-led businesses, and community sporting initiatives. She will also meet with women’s rights advocates, frontline responders, and political leaders supporting gender equality and women’s empowerment.As part of the program, Ambassador O’Byrne will attend PNG Hunters fixtures and AFL PNG training sessions, where she will engage with athletes, coaches, and sporting organisations using sport to promote leadership opportunities for women and girls, positive social change, and greater gender equality.Speaking ahead of the visit, Ambassador O’Byrne acknowledged the contributions of Papua New Guinean women and organisations leading change in their communities."Papua New Guinea is home to extraordinary women and organisations driving change in their communities every day," she said.She added that the visit would provide an opportunity to hear directly from women leaders, political champions, frontline workers, and young people about the opportunities and challenges they face while reinforcing Australia's partnership with Papua New Guinea to advance gender equality.Australia says it recognises that lasting progress on gender equality is driven by Papua New Guinean leadership and collaboration. Through the Australia–PNG Partnership, it remains committed to working with government, civil society, communities, and the private sector to support a more inclusive, prosperous, and equitable future for all.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has given Cameron Munster his blessing to negotiate with the PNG Chiefs after the club granted the Queensland and Australian star permission to explore an opportunity with the NRL's newest franchise.Munster, a two-time NRL premiership winner and one of Melbourne's longest-serving players, has emerged as a potential marquee signing for the PNG Chiefs as the club continues building its inaugural squad ahead of its 2028 entry into the competition. The franchise recently announced Zac Lomax as Player No. 005.Speaking after Melbourne's 26-24 loss to the South Sydney Rabbitohs on Saturday night, Bellamy said he would fully support Munster if he decided to leave the club."I am happy to let him go. He has done a lot for our club. He has been a great servant and very loyal, so if he wants to go, then he goes with my blessing," Bellamy said.Munster's signing would represent one of the biggest recruitment coups in the club's short history. The three-time Dally M Five-eighth of the Year is among the NRL's highest-paid players and would likely command one of the richest contracts at the PNG Chiefs.If Munster joins the franchise, he would partner fellow elite playmaker Jerome Luai, who became the Chiefs' inaugural signing as Player No. 001. Together, the pair have won six NRL premierships, with Munster claiming two titles and Luai four.Munster has played more than 250 first grade matches across 12 seasons with Melbourne, won two premierships from four grand final appearances, captained Queensland and remains Australia's first-choice five-eighth.His experience, leadership and on-field success make him a strong candidate to captain the PNG Chiefs, although it remains unclear whether that role has already been earmarked for Luai.The PNG Chiefs have remained tight-lipped about their recruitment strategy and traditionally do not confirm negotiations until players are officially unveiled in Port Moresby.Source: 9 News Queensland