Thousands gathered on Monday 18th May in Arawa, Central Bougainville to mark Remembrance Day to remember those who lost their lives during the Bougainville crisis.The President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, led the commemoration under the theme; “From Sacrifice to Sovereignty” “This day is of significance to the people of Bougainville, as it is the day that honours the lives of those that perished during Bougainville crisis.” In his remarks to the people, the President acknowledged the sacrifices of the veterans and the civilians. “Today, we remember those who lost their lives during the Bougainville crisis, the years of fear and suffering.” “We remember and honour the lives of nearly twenty thousand Bougainvilleans who perished.” The Bougainville Remembrance Day also marks and strengthens Bougainville’s aspiration for independence. “I would like to declare to you today that our second cry for Independence on May 17th, 36 years ago, will be answered with the declaration of our independence on September 1st, 2027.” “As we await ratification, let us live as if we are already independent, in our businesses in our social lives, our families and communities being self-reliant.” He encouraged the people of Bougainville to maintain peace by peaceful means and to stand united, and in the future. The event was attended by members of the Bougainville Government, Department heads, veterans, students and civilians.

The prime minister has departed the country once again on another official overseas trip to France where he is expected to hold high-level Bilateral Talks with French President His Excellency Emmanuel Macron and senior French Government leaders.The Visit reciprocates President Macron’s historic State Visit to Papua New Guinea in 2023 and marks a significant milestone as the two Nations celebrate 50 years of Diplomatic Relations. Speaking at a Press Conference today at Melanesian Haus today prior to his departure, Prime Minister Marape described France as one of Papua New Guinea’s most important Strategic Partners globally and a major Partner in the Pacific region. “France is an important Bilateral Partner with Papua New Guinea. France is the leading Economy in the European Union and a Resident Power in the Pacific,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This Visit reflects Papua New Guinea’s growing role and strategic relevance not only in the Pacific but globally.” Prime Minister Marape said discussions with President Macron and French officials would focus on strengthening Cooperation in trade, investment, climate change, renewable energy, maritime security, infrastructure financing, and economic development. The Prime Minister revealed that he would also address a distinguished audience of French Senate and leadership representatives on contemporary Global and Regional issues, including climate change, Pacific security, and Papua New Guinea’s increasing leadership role in the Region. “Papua New Guinea is strategically located between the Pacific and Asia, and our perspectives are increasingly being acknowledged globally,” he stated. “We recently hosted the historic Melanesian Ocean Summit, which brought together Pacific and ASEAN leaders, demonstrating Papua New Guinea’s growing Regional leadership.” Prime Minister Marape said one of the major priorities of the Visit would be advancing Economic Partnerships between Papua New Guinea and France, including Trade access into Europe for PNG products such as tuna, palm oil, and agricultural exports. “At the heart of all our Bilateral engagements is the Economic Growth of our country,” he said. “We want to grow our Trade relationship with France and the European Union and create greater opportunities for our Exports and Investments.” The Prime Minister also confirmed that among the discussions of projects, would be the Financing Support for the proposed Rabaul Port Redevelopment Project, which France has indicated support for through a Concessional Financing arrangement. “We are looking at securing support for the Rabaul Port Development Program, which will become a strategic Agro-Fisheries and Trade hub for the New Guinea Islands region,” Prime Minister Marape stated. PM announced that a lot more will be discussed during his visit.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) and the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) recently hosted a high-level planning session to drive the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Policy across management teams.The session focuses on embedding equity, diversity, and participation into leadership and healthcare delivery. Ms. Josephine Konjib (Director for Momase Region and Social Sector Division) stated, “The Department of Personnel Management is proud to partner with NCDPHA in this important journey. GESI implementation is about creating workplaces where every voice is valued, and where inclusive leadership drives sustainable change.” Dr. Robin Oge (CEO of NCDPHA) noted, “GESI is not just a policy; it is a commitment to fairness, respect, and empowerment. By integrating these principles into our systems, we strengthen our workforce and improve the quality of care for all communities we serve.” The session allowed managers to align strategies and map actionable steps to integrate GESI principles into daily operations, reinforcing a shared commitment to an inclusive and accountable health system.

The local small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in Papua New Guinea have been urged to take full advantage of the upcoming massive recourse projects coming up in the country by building up their own business capabilities.Speaking at the recent 41st Australia Papua New Guinea Business Forum Conference in Brisbane in Australia, BSP’s Head of Business Banking, Raymond Logona, said building capability was essential for PNG businesses to take full advantage of the coming super cycle of PNG resource projects. “We know that in the next decade, there will be major opportunities for PNG business as major projects are developed such as the Papua LNG Project, the Wafi-Golpu Project, the Frieda River Copper Gold Project and energy projects in Bougainville and Port Moresby. “Together, these projects present a super-cycle of opportunity for small and medium enterprises in PNG, but to take full advantage, businesses need to start work now on their business strategy and the capabilities they need to support these major investments. “BSP has recognised the opportunity to support our business customers. We launched our dedicated Business Bank last year and are investing K1.2 billion in a multi-year program to modernise the BSP Group for growth. This includes upgrading our technology and digital channels and creating world-class products and services to support the growth of small to medium-sized enterprises. “We are also investing through our partnership with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) to deliver the YES GROW program to build capability among our SME customers so they can use new digital tools, manage cash flow and make better use of finance to be ready for growth opportunities. Mr. Logona was joined by ABV’s CEO Liz Mackinlay, who spoke to the partnership’s achievements. “ABV is proud to be partnering with BSP to help SMEs transform their enterprises for sustainable growth, positively impacting the wider economy and supporting their families and communities into the future. We look forward to bringing the YES GROW Program to Bougainville later this year.” Since its inception in 2018, BSP’s partnership with Australian Business Volunteers has provided intensive, practical training and personalised mentoring to more than 600 small businesses in the South Pacific, including 400 in Papua New Guinea across 19 sectors.

A group of cocoa farmers in Bundi local level government in Madang province is hopeful to register their cooperative as they see an increase in the sale of cocoa.Lower Bundi Cocoa Cooperative (LBCC) is a proposed cocoa cooperative comprising of eight cocoa farmers in Brahman, particularly three ward areas in Bundi LLG. The group made their third sale of 48 bags of cocoa at the Kamapim Limited cocoa depot in Madang early last week. This is the third sale within the month of April and early May. LBCC chairman Sesi Morris said this new company Kamapim Limited has been assisting the group to register the cooperative. “We have been trying to register the group for quite a while but could not get the group register. This new company: Kamapim Limited is helping us now to register the cooperative and we have seen progress in a short time then all the years of trying to register the group,” Mr. Morris said. “The company is not only helping the group to register but have also made time to visit our remote cocoa growing village of Tauya, and it is the first time a cocoa buying company has visited such a rural place and we are grateful for the visit.” Vice chairman of the group Fidelis Tefe said that the company is also offering attractive incentives in price, freight subsidy, bonus, and premium offers which is something many cocoa farmers want and such attractive initiatives also encourages more people to work. Mr. Tefe said the group begun their first sales with 18 bags, the second sales with 22 bags and the third sales with 48 bags. “We hope that with the help of this new company we hope to get our cooperative registered and continue to sell. As a group we believe to achieve more benefits including the attractive initiatives that the company is offering including other services that would help us as farmers,” Mr. Tefe said.

Lae Biscuit Company has donated 90 cartons of biscuits and noodles to Buk Bilong Pikinini at Lae Showground to help replace stolen learning equipment.The donation was made by Lae Biscuit Managing Director Ian Chow after the school suffered a break- and- enter earlier this year. Items stolen included laptops, tablets, a speaker, and the school’s power meter, affecting digital learning activities for children. The donated food items will now be sold to help raise funds to buy new learning gadgets. Head librarian Ruth Malum thanked Lae Biscuit for supporting the school during a difficult time. She said the support has brought hope to teachers, parents and students as they work to rebuild the learning environment.

NCD/Central Commander Benjamin Turi has dismissed as false a viral social media message claiming that a State of Emergency (SOE) would be declared in the National Capital District due to a planned 14-day water outage.Commander Turi clarified that the message did not originate from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and was not authorized by police. He said the public should disregard the notice, describing it as fake news intended to mislead residents. “The police have not issued any directive regarding a State of Emergency, and there is no official declaration related to water shortages at this time,” Commander Turi stated. The fake message, which was circulated online and addressed to “All Officers,” alleged that a two-week water disruption was imminent and claimed the Police Commissioner would oversee SOE operations, including the deployment of water trucks. Commander Turi said police officers were sent to Sogeri, the main water source supplying Port Moresby, to verify the situation and liaise with relevant authorities. He urged residents to remain calm and to rely only on official and verified information. Commander Turi added that normal police operations are continuing, and police are working closely with stakeholders to maintain public order and ensure accurate information is shared with the public.

Madang Rugby League President has thanked the Enga Provincial Government and the Governor of Enga for gracing Ron Albert Oval with their presence to witness the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Round 6 clash between Madang Kandes and Enga Mioks.The Kandes emerged victorious with an impressive 18–8 win over the Mioks. After six rounds, Kandes has recorded 4 wins, 1 draw, and only 1 loss — a remarkable achievement for a new team competing in its first season in Papua New Guinea’s national semi-professional rugby league competition. Madang Rugby League Executives, under the leadership of PNGRFL-appointed Administrator Mr. Albert Tobe, are pleased to have Kande’s making Madang its home base. It is an exciting time for the development of rugby league in this part of PNG. Madang Rugby League has recently strengthened its compliance and governance requirements, resulting in four clubs being removed from the competition for failing to meet the minimum PNGRFL standards. The focus this year is to improve the technical capabilities and administrative competencies of local rugby league clubs in Madang. The presence of Kande’s in Madang, and the participation of Kande’s players in MRL competitions and club training sessions, has greatly lifted the standard of the competition. Kande’s presence has also created valuable opportunities for local rugby league talent in Madang to gain exposure at the national level. Meanwhile, in a grand final rematch, the Takara Hawks proved too strong for Ezy Freighters Royals, winning 22–14 in another thrilling encounter. Rugby league is not just a sport in Papua New Guinea — it is a source of national pride and unity. It is also a powerful development tool that can foster peace, harmony, and prosperous communities in Madang and throughout PNG. The President of Madang Rugby League is appealing to the business houses, the provincial government, and community leaders to continue supporting the growth and development of rugby league in Madang.

The Governor of the National Capital District (NCD), Powes Parkop, recently announced that the fuel supply will resume immediately across Port Moresby and nationwide, following a high-level meeting with major fuel importers ExxonMobil, Puma Energies, and Total Energies, alongside Prime Minister James Marape and Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey.The meeting, held at the Hilton Hotel on May 16, 2026, resulted in an agreement to supply and distribute fuel to all service stations and stakeholders at the subsidized April fuel price. This measure is intended to end the disruption experienced in Port Moresby and other parts of the country. Governor Parkop emphasized the government’s commitment to stabilizing the situation. “Tankers will immediately start supplying the service stations and other outlets now.” “I am confident that the temporary hitch which we experienced will be soon resolved.” This assurance follows confirmation from Prime Minister Marape and Treasurer Ling-Stuckey, in consultation with the Governor of the Central Bank, that the second trench of the fuel subsidy will be released before close of business today Monday, May 18, 2026. Governor Parkop further highlighted the importance of long-term solutions. “The government and industry partners have agreed to work together to ensure this situation does not happen again.”  “As Governor of NCD, I was fully briefed on the discussions and agreement reached, and I welcome this decisive action.”

A major agreement aimed at improving public safety and removing dangerous remnants of World War II has been signed between the East New Britain Provincial Government and The HALO Trust under a U.S.-supported initiative. The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), signed on Friday by Michael Marum and HALO Trust PNG Program Manager William Hunter, will guide the implementation of an $11.5 million (K47.2 million) United States-funded program focused on locating and disposing of unexploded ordnance (UXO) across East New Britain Province. The funding will also support ongoing UXO clearance activities in Oro Province and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. Under the agreement, The HALO Trust will conduct surveys and mapping of areas contaminated by wartime explosives before carrying out excavation and disposal operations. The project aims to reduce risks to communities, protect livelihoods, and prevent unexploded devices from being misused. Community awareness and education also form a key part of the initiative. Risk education programs will be delivered in schools and public facilities to improve understanding of UXO dangers and encourage safer behavior in affected communities. The agreement additionally includes training and employment opportunities for local residents in East New Britain. The HALO Trust will provide explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) training for members of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, while also assisting efforts to strengthen national systems for tracking and reporting unexploded ordnance. Governor Marum welcomed the partnership, highlighting the longstanding relationship between Papua New Guinea and the United States, particularly through efforts to recover American soldiers missing since World War II. He said the expanded support reflects a shared commitment to honoring historical ties while improving safety for local communities still affected by wartime remnants. William Hunter described the project as an important step toward protecting lives in areas heavily impacted during World War II, noting that unexploded ordnance remains a serious hazard in many communities. Meanwhile, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Alex Berenberg said the initiative demonstrates the United States’ commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea in addressing UXO threats, building local capacity, and creating safer environments for affected populations. The HALO Trust is an international humanitarian organization supported by both the United States and the United Kingdom, with a mission focused on protecting communities impacted by conflict and explosive remnants of war.

Papua New Guinea’s push to join the National Rugby League in 2028 continues to gather momentum, with Prime Minister James Marape welcoming Sydney Roosters and NRL representative player Connor Watson during his recent visit to Port Moresby.Watson was in the country touring facilities linked to the proposed PNG Chiefs franchise and exploring potential involvement ahead of the team’s planned entry into the NRL competition in 2028. Prime Minister Marape said the visit reflects growing international interest and confidence in the PNG Chiefs project, following the involvement of other high-profile players such as Jarome Luai and Alex Johnston. He noted that Watson’s presence in the country was a positive signal for the franchise’s development, saying the player’s decision-making would remain a personal matter between him, the club, and his representatives, but that Papua New Guinea welcomed his engagement with the project. Marape emphasized that the long-term goal of the PNG Chiefs is to build a highly competitive squad capable of matching established NRL teams from their debut season. He said the focus is not merely participation, but competitiveness and setting high performance standards from the outset. At the same time, he stressed that the initiative is intended to strengthen local pathways, ensuring Papua New Guinean players continue to progress through domestic systems into elite professional rugby league. He pointed to existing development structures as key foundations for future talent. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the leadership driving the expansion project, including Sports Minister Kinoka Feo, coach Willie Peters, CEO Lorna McPherson, General Manager Michael Chammas, and the wider PNG Chiefs board, commending their work in progressing the bid toward its target season. Marape also reassured NRL stakeholders that Papua New Guinea intends to strictly observe all recruitment rules and contractual obligations within the Australian competition framework. He said any player movement would be handled transparently and in accordance with established protocols. He added that the government is committed to ensuring international players and their families who relocate to Papua New Guinea are properly supported, highlighting the importance of community integration, safety, and lifestyle adjustment in Port Moresby. Beyond rugby league, Marape linked the Chiefs project to broader national development goals, describing it as part of a wider effort to position Port Moresby as a modern Pacific hub for sport, tourism, business, and international engagement. He referenced Papua New Guinea’s experience hosting major events such as APEC 2018 and its future ambitions for larger global gatherings. The Prime Minister concluded by wishing Watson success in his playing career and thanked him for taking the time to visit Papua New Guinea and engage with the Chiefs’ long-term vision.

From the number of challenges and issues encountered during the recent Tropical Cyclone Maila disaster, the East New Britain (ENB) Provincial Health Authority (PHA) has now revisited its rapid response action plan.Multi-tasking disciplines within the health authority in each respective district health facilities, were required to sit in a one-day surveillance training, to look at approaches when conducting rapid assessments to prioritise resources. Provincial Disease Control Officer, Joachim Kais who facilitated the training, said that more emphasis is in the district level to immediately respond should it be required at an instant. “Health workers at the district levels are targeted for the training and be the focal points of response and attend to emergencies.” “Identified senior medical officers, nurses, environment health officers, community health workers, laboratory officers and logistical support staff, all make up the rapid response, surveillance team, where they must be familiar with each other’s roles and responsibilities and execute accordingly.” The training also looked at the composite of the rapid response team, demarcating each member’s constitution to implement during an outbreak of diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, any airborne diseases and respiratory. Moreover, the rapid response action plan further focused on local capacity building and community-based health response.