Special Olympics Papua New Guinea recently concluded its first activity for 2026 with a three-day Volunteers Batch III Training beginning on Feb 14th at Sir John Guise Stadium, bringing together 42 participants to strengthen inclusive sports delivery nationwide.The capacity-building program engaged 28 youth volunteers and 22 athlete leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to support Special Olympics activities and promote inclusion through sport. Sessions covered athlete health and safety, inclusive communication, and practical tools such as basic sign language for engaging with Deaf or non-verbal athletes. Special Olympics PNG also acknowledged the ongoing support of parents, guardians, siblings and teachers, whose encouragement enables athletes to participate and thrive in inclusive sport programs.

The Governor of East New Britain, Michael Marum, handed over a new administration bus to Kerevat Rural Hospital in Gazelle District of late, strengthening transport capacity to support rural health service delivery.Governor Marum stated that reliable transport remains one of the greatest operational challenges facing rural health services, directly affecting outreach programs and access to care in remote communities. “Transport remains one of the biggest operational challenges in rural health services. When mobility is limited, outreach clinics are delayed and communities miss out on essential care.” “This bus will improve efficiency and ensure services reach our people.” He repeated that health remains a key priority of the East New Britain Provincial Government, emphasizing that sustained investment in frontline services is essential to building strong and productive communities. He also acknowledged the ongoing partnership with NGIP Agmark, commending the company for its continued support to health and development initiatives across the province. “Strong partnerships between government and the private sector are essential in delivering practical and meaningful outcomes for our people.” “We appreciate Agmark’s commitment to East New Britain.” The Governor urged hospital management to maintain the vehicle properly and ensure it is used strictly for health operations and outreach programs.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) wishes to clarify recent developments around Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL), its partnering process, and the redevelopment of the Panguna mine project. Firstly, the ABG formally announces that Bougainville now holds a confirmed 72.9% shareholding in BCL, comprising 36.45% shares held by the Autonomous Bougainville Government and 36.45% shares held by Bougainville Minerals Limited. This makes Bougainville the clear and controlling majority shareholder in BCL. Hon. Ishmael Toroama, MHR, President and Minister for Mining & Petroleum reiterated that as majority owner, the ABG is fully entitled under applicable corporate law to determine the strategic direction of the company in the best interests of the people of Bougainville. With regards to the BCL and Panguna process, the ABG operates in two distinct capacities: 1. As Regulator under the Bougainville Mining Act; and 2. As Majority Shareholder in BCL. President Toroama clarifies that the developments involving BCL, CMOC, and Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL) are occurring strictly at the shareholder level. There are no breaches of the Bougainville Mining Act 2015 and no regulatory issues. “These shareholder decisions do not alter the fact that BCL remains the lawful holder of Exploration Licence EL01 over Panguna.” “There are no two competing redevelopment arrangements. BCL, as EL01 license holder, remains responsible for implementing its approved work program and complying with all statutory obligations.” These include land access and compensation agreement implementation, landowner identification studies, social mapping studies, geological and engineering studies, environmental baseline studies, and other compliance requirements under the Mining Act. However, it must be acknowledged that BCL does not presently have the technical or financial capacity to advance EL01 activities independently. Toroama added that BCL has proposed the introduction of CMOC as a partner to provide funding and technical capability; that proposal would have resulted in approximately a 20% dilution of Bougainville’s majority shareholding. However, the President and the Bougainville Executive Council have rejected that proposal. Instead, the ABG has endorsed the engagement of LMEL as a partner to provide the necessary financial and technical resources to progress EL01 activities. This decision is lawful and consistent with the ABG’s authority as the confirmed majority shareholder of BCL. It is also important to clarify that recently referenced Panguna redevelopment timelines are not timelines for mine production. “Panguna remains at the Exploration Licence (EL01) stage, the President’s comments on timelines relate specifically to increasing Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) and Feasibility Study (FS) on-site activities under the EL01 exploration license.” The ABG remains committed to ensuring that the redevelopment of Panguna proceeds in a lawful, transparent, and orderly manner, delivering lasting benefits for the people of Bougainville.

The Road Traffic Authority (RTA) has stopped all cash payments for traffic offences, Acting Chief Executive Officer John Avira announced in a media statement on Monday, 16 February 2026.Mr. Avira said cash fines will no longer be collected by RTA or police at roadblocks, roadside checks or RTA offices. The directive takes effect immediately and applies to all Traffic Enforcement Officers nationwide, including both RTA and police traffic officers. “Any road user served a Traffic Infringement Notice (TIN) by an RTA or police Traffic Enforcement Officer must use the EFTPOS machines provided at the road-check,” Mr. Avira said. He clarified that if no EFTPOS machine is available at the roadblock, motorists must take the issued TIN to an RTA or police traffic office to make payment using an EFTPOS machine. “In either case, there must be no cash payments, and the road user must insist on a payment receipt showing the amount paid and when it was paid,” he emphasized. Mr. Avira said the directive follows social media allegations that some motorists were being fined in cash without being issued TINs or official receipts. “Road users must know their rights,” Mr. Avira stated. “Anyone whose rights are infringed by any RTA and police traffic officer through forced cash payments must note the name of the TEO and the time and report the matter to the Officer-in-Charge at the RTA office.” He further warned that any officer found soliciting money under the guise of enforcing traffic regulations will face serious disciplinary action, including possible termination of employment.

The Governor of East New Britain, Michael Marum, recently presented a 40-horsepower school boat to Kabilomo Junior High School in the Duke of York Islands of Kokopo District, assisting in transport access for the island school community.Governor Marum said the provision of the boat represents a major milestone for Kabilomo, where sea transport remains the primary means of travel for students and teachers. “For island schools like Kabilomo, transport is essential. This boat will ensure safer travel for students and teachers and improve access to education.” Governor Marum acknowledged and thanked the Agmark Group for its continued partnership and support to East New Britain Province, particularly in the education and health sectors. “Agmark continues to demonstrate strong corporate leadership and commitment to the development of our province.” “Their partnership in supporting education and health initiatives is greatly appreciated.” He also acknowledged the contributions of the Member for Kokopo, the President of Duke of York LLG, Ward Member for Kabilomo, Goliath Robin, School Board Chairman and Head Teacher Joe Robin, and the teaching staff for their leadership and collaboration in delivering the support to the school. Governor Marum reaffirmed that education remains a key pillar of the Provincial Government’s development agenda, noting that investments in school infrastructure and services directly improve attendance, academic performance and long-term outcomes for students. He encouraged students to make good use of the new boat and remain committed to their studies, describing them as the future leaders of the Duke of York Islands and East New Britain Province.

The recent visit by the Provincial Member and Governor for Madang Province, Ramsey Pariwa, to Lalok Primary School in ward seven of Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government (LLG) in Rai Coast District has somewhat open the flood gates for a number of significant financial assistance to the school. Governor Pariwa was at Lalok Primary School last Thurday, February 12 to deliver a K20,000 cheque following a commitment he made last year during a community gathering at Lalok Village.After delivering the cheque last Thursday to the head-teacher, Sand Robin, the Governor also pledged to assist with another K30,000 to the school this year.Upon the Governor's announcement, the newly elected President of Astrolabe Bay LLG, Garry Kulonga, wasted no time in announcing a commitment of K50,000 assistance to the school.Governor Pariwa at the occasion also told the people that he has appointed Mr. Kulonga as Chairman of Education Sector in the Provincial Executive Council. The significant part of the occasion was when the Provincial Education Director, Alphonse Igag, announced an undertaking to the head-teacher, Sand Robin, that Lalok Primary School would be included in the tuition fee free (TFF) subsidy this year.Mr. Igag assured that the TFF subsidy assistance would eventuate at the second quarter of this school year. The TFF subsidy assurance drew huge applause from the crowd who gathered to welcome the Governor. Mr. Pariwa also presented a K10,000 assistance to the Lalok Sports Association.He encouraged youths to turn away from drugs, homebrews and lawlessness and turn to sports to keep themselves occupied. He even urged the youths to continue playing soccer and select a side to participate in the Governor's Cup soccer tournament where scouts would be moving around to select players to the Madang Football Club.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) recently marked Valentine’s Day with a special appreciation event, “Cupcakes with BbP,” celebrating its long-standing partnership with Nasfund and recognizing the fund’s continued support through office space and governance facilities for the organization.The event highlighted Nasfund’s contribution, particularly in 2026, as BbP has recently relocated its head office to a new space at The Face Building in Downtown Port Moresby — a site that previously housed the organization. The visit also provided an opportunity for the Nasfund team to meet BbP’s head office staff and gain insights into the organization’s day-to-day work supporting early childhood literacy across the country. Nasfund has provided office space to BbP since 2010, alongside access to meeting and conference facilities for board engagements. BbP says this support has played a critical role in strengthening its operational capacity, enabling its head office team to oversee the delivery of early childhood education programs, manage administration, develop educational content and coordinate learning centres nationwide. BbP also acknowledged its Board Treasurer, Tamzin Wardley, who serves on the Nasfund Board, noting that her guidance has further strengthened the organisation’s governance and accountability. A stable and supportive working environment remains essential for BbP to deliver quality programs for children. The organization said Nasfund’s long-term support has allowed it to focus on improving literacy outcomes through early childhood education. Since its establishment in 2007, Buk bilong Pikinini has supported more than 15,000 children through its learning centres across the country. The provision of office space since 2010 has been a key enabler of this growth, allowing the organization to expand sustainably into communities in need. BbP expressed gratitude to Nasfund for the longevity of the partnership and its reaffirmed commitment in 2026. The Valentine’s Day event symbolized appreciation, shared values and the importance of long-term collaboration in achieving meaningful social outcomes in Papua New Guinea.

Health authorities in Morobe Province have reported a sharp rise in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases, starting at the end of 2025 and peaking in early January 2026.Weekly reports showed the highest number of cases in epidemic week #2, causing concern among healthcare workers and the public. Rumours circulated on WhatsApp and through word of mouth about deaths from cough and shortness of breath, but investigations found no confirmed cases. From 8–13 January 2026, samples collected from Buimo, Bulolo, Butibam, Malahang, Mutzing, Taraka and Situm Health Centres confirmed Influenza Type A with the H3N2 subtype. Out of 27 samples sent to the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research (PNGIMR), 12 tested positive, with two more cases from medivac patients from Siassi Island. Healthcare workers reported that this H3N2 strain seemed particularly strong, leading to higher demand for medical supplies. In January alone, 15 emergency supply orders were sent out, more than in previous years. Over the past three years, influenza strains in Morobe have varied. In 2023, Type B (Victoria lineage) was detected in Salamaua. No samples were submitted in 2024. In 2025, Type A (H1N1) was found in Erap and in 2026, Type A (H3N2) was confirmed in six health facilities and on Siassi Island. The Lutheran Church Synod gathering on Siassi Island from 13–23 January 2026 showed the impact of influenza at large events. Over 436 locals and 235 church delegates were diagnosed with ILI. Five delegates developed Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) but all survived after medical care. One person with influenza-like symptoms died from pre-existing conditions. Patients received timely care at Angau Hospital and were discharged for home management after stabilization. The surge was not caused by COVID-19. Health facilities had limited medical supplies and PPE and public awareness of the seasonal nature of influenza was low. The elderly, especially those over 50, were most affected. Influenza remains a serious public health concern in Morobe. Like COVID-19, it spreads through the air and can severely affect older adults and people with existing health conditions. Authorities recommend keeping patient records to track severe cases and deaths, testing samples during each influenza surge, running ongoing public awareness programs, ensuring PPE availability, following infection control procedures at public gatherings and maintaining weekly surveillance to track trends and prepare responses. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge communities to stay aware and take preventive measures to reduce the impact of seasonal influenza.

A sum of K214 million held in a trust account was recently successfully frozen by the police in light of suspicion of corruption and money laundering.The money believed to be rightfully belonging to the people of the Western province was about to be moved into subsidiary accounts when upon intelligence, police moved in to freeze the trust account. This move by police has been commended by Prime Minister James Marape, who described the action as a major step forward in the government’s ongoing fight against corruption. The Prime Minister confirmed that police obtained a court stay order under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) to prevent the transfer of the funds. “I want to commend the police for acting swiftly and decisively. From the reports I have received, this K214 million belongs to the people of Western Province, and police have successfully stopped it from being transferred or dissipated,” Prime Minister Marape said. He said the onus is now on those holding the account to explain the source and purpose of the funds. “Police have informed me that those involved have six months to account for the money — where it came from, why it is being held, and for what purpose. If the court is not satisfied, the funds will be recovered and returned to their rightful beneficiaries,” he said. The restraint order was secured under the Proceeds of Crime Act, Papua New Guinea’s principal legislation for freezing, seizing and forfeiting assets suspected to be derived from criminal activity, including corruption and money laundering. The POCA framework allows law enforcement agencies to act swiftly to preserve suspected proceeds while investigations and court processes are ongoing, preventing funds from being concealed, transferred offshore, or dissipated. Police investigations indicate that the restrained funds were held in a professional trust account and were at risk of imminent movement into subsidiary accounts, triggering urgent action to preserve the money pending further examination. Under POCA provisions, the restraint does not determine guilt, but ensures that funds remain secured while authorities establish whether the money constitutes proceeds of crime and whether forfeiture proceedings should follow. If the court ultimately determines that the funds are state monies or proceeds of unlawful activity, the legislation provides for recovery and forfeiture to the State, with potential prosecution of individuals involved— including professionals entrusted with managing such accounts — where breaches of the law are established. Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the fight against corruption is not a one-off event, but a sustained process that requires long-term investment in law enforcement capability.

The Rookes Marine Pre-Season Tournament will officially kick off this weekend following the official draws held today at Laiwaden Oval in Madang.The draw was conducted by the General Secretary of Madang Soccer Association, John Maripal, together with representatives of Rookes Marine. Mr. Paul Rookes, representing the major sponsor, picked team names to be placed into their respective pools for both the men’s and women’s divisions.A total of 29 men’s teams has confirmed their participant and have been drawn into four pools, while nine women’s teams have also confirmed participation in this year’s tournament.Rookes Marine, the major sponsor of the competition, has supported football in the province for the past 15 years. Mr. Maripal thanked the company for its long-standing commitment, describing this year’s competition as one of the biggest ever due to the increase in team participation.“Rookes Marine has been with us for 15 years now. Thank you, Rookes Marine,” he said.Mr. Maripal also acknowledged the support of the Madang Provincial Government and other partners, including BNBM and Sigma Construction, for their continued backing of football in the province.After conducting the draws, Mr. Paul Rookes thanked the President of Madang Soccer Association, Mr. Siefried Beschel, and wished all participating teams well.“Thank you to the President of Madang Soccer Association and the team. Good luck to all the participating teams,” he said.Meanwhile, the selected players from the recent Madang FC trials will also feature in the tournament under two teams, Panu 1 and Panu 2. Their participation will allow the scouting team to further assess and identify the best players to join the final Madang FC squad to represent the province in upcoming competitions.The tournament is expected to draw strong competition as teams prepare to battle it out when matches begin this weekend at Laiwaden Oval and end in two weeks' time.

Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa has challenged aspiring footballers to bring Madang FC back into the national spotlight following the conclusion of the Madang FC trials at Laiwaden Oval yesterday.Governor Pariwa visited the grounds to witness the final day of trials yesterday, where selected players from the recent Governor’s Cup LLG games showcased their skills and talent in hopes of earning a spot in the Madang FC squad.Addressing the players after the trials, the Governor described the Governor’s Cup as a vital platform for rural-based players to demonstrate their football abilities.“The Governor’s Cup is a great opportunity for our rural players to show their skills and talents in football,” he said. “It is my dream to see talented young men from Madang wear the Madang FC jersey and compete at the national level.”He assured players of his continued support in rebuilding the club.“I will support to make sure we rise from where we are — from our homes, from the LLGs to the national stage — and bring Madang FC back into the field,” he said.Governor Pariwa also officially announced that the Madang Provincial Events Committee (MPEC) will serve as the interim board of Madang FC until a formal board is appointed by the Provincial Executive Council (PEC).“I would like to officially make it known that I have appointed the Madang Provincial Events Committee to look after Madang FC,” he stated.The Governor thanked the Madang Soccer Association, coaches, technical officials, referees and players for their commitment during the two-day trials, encouraging selected players to prove they are capable of representing Madang Province with pride.Madang Soccer Association President Siegfried Beschel thanked the Governor for his initiative in creating pathways for raw rural talent to rise through structured competition.He challenged those who make the final squad to prove themselves worthy of competing at a higher level.“The National Premier League is a high-level competition. We cannot just put anyone on the field,” Beschel said. “Prove to us that you are capable of delivering results. We want to play and win. Take it as a challenge and show us you are the best.”One of the selected players, Gaston Kalam from Simbai, expressed gratitude to the Governor for the opportunity provided through the Governor’s Cup initiative.“Thank you, Governor, for the opportunity,” he said, describing his participation in the trials as a significant achievement.The event was attended by Governor Hon. Ramsey Pariwa, Madang Soccer Association President Siegfried Beschel, and Acting Town Manager Titus Futrepa.

The YWAM Medical Ship Ministry is playing a vital role in delivering integrated outreach health services to some of Madang Province’s most isolated communities, according to Madang Provincial Health Authority (PHA) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Martin Daimen.Dr. Daimen said the YWAM medical ship is specifically designed to reach remote coastal areas, islands and atolls, and at times even extend into inland communities where normal government health services often struggle to reach.He described the ministry’s work as more than just medical intervention, noting that it combines physical healthcare with mental health and spiritual support.“Our health system is largely designed to focus on the physical aspect of a person,” Dr. Daimen said. “But the human being is made up of the body, the soul and the spirit. To achieve true rehabilitation and restoration, we must consider the whole person.”Dr. Daimen explained that while the formal health system concentrates primarily on physical treatment, services such as mental health care and chaplaincy are essential components in delivering holistic or whole-person healthcare.He said the work of the YWAM Medical Ship should be viewed as an extended arm of the province’s health system, helping to fill service gaps in hard-to-reach areas.“The ownership is upon us as health authorities to reach out and invite them,” he said. “They can tell us what services they offer, and we can share our priority areas and challenges. From there, we can agree on priorities and work collaboratively to achieve results.”The Madang PHA is currently working closely with the YWAM team to deliver services to isolated coastal communities, islands and atolls across the province. One model of care that local health authorities can learn from, Dr. Daimen added, is the mobile clinic system used onboard the ship.He encouraged other districts and health facilities to engage with the YWAM team to better understand the services they provide and how they can complement existing government health programs.“Please invite them to your location or visit them and find out what services they can offer to help fill the gaps in our health system,” Dr. Daimen said.