Auckland FC continued their strong start to the OFC Pro League with a third consecutive victory, edging past Bula FC 1–0 at North Harbour Stadium on Thursday night.An early strike from midfielder Daniel Normann proved decisive, as the Black Knights were forced to defend resolutely for much of the second half after being reduced to ten men. Normann opened the scoring in the 12th minute, finishing confidently into the bottom-right corner after Reid Drake delivered a low corner into the box. The goal, the result of a well-worked set piece, was enough to secure all three points for Luke Casserly’s side. Auckland FC fielded the same starting eleven that defeated South Island United in their season opener, with Normann and Drake the only players to start all three matches of the Pro League’s opening round. Meanwhile, Bula FC made two changes following their opening draw with Vanuatu United FC, with Yuta Konagaya and Nabil Begg coming into the lineup. Bula FC had chances to level the match before halftime, most notably when Fergus Gillion volleyed over from close range after a strong run down the left by Kaile Auvray. Auckland thought they had doubled their lead shortly after, but Everton O’Leary’s finish was ruled out for offside following a VAR review. VAR also denied Bula FC early in the second half, with Begg’s apparent equalizer disallowed due to an offside in the build-up. Wet conditions returned after a week of heavy rain across Auckland, and the slippery surface played a role in a key turning point when O’Leary received a second yellow card for a sliding challenge on Auvray, leaving Auckland FC to play out the remainder of the match with ten men. Despite enjoying a numerical advantage, Bula FC struggled to break down Auckland’s defence. Auvray went close with a half-volley, while Roy Krishna was kept quiet by close attention from Auckland captain Tass Mourdoukoutas. Late substitutions from Bula FC coach Stéphane Auvray failed to shift the momentum, as Auckland FC held firm to secure a hard-fought win. Frustrations boiled over in the closing stages, with several cautions issued as tensions rose. The result leaves Auckland FC top of the OFC Pro League standings after the first round with a perfect nine points, while Bula FC sit on one point from their opening two matches. Auckland will now travel to Papua New Guinea for the second round of the competition.

The Papua LNG and Wafi- Golpu Gold and Copper projects are not abandoned, instead they are progressing toward their next critical development stages.That is the assurance from Prime Minister James Marape to the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG) of these two largest resource projects. “It is no secret that my government is working very hard to ensure Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu move into their next phases — agreements to be signed, licenses to be issued and FIDs to be announced,” Prime Minister Marape said. Prime Minister Marape confirmed he held discussions with Mr. Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies, who provided firm assurance that the Papua LNG project remains active. “The project is not abandoned,” Prime Minister Marape said. “I was pleased to receive Mr. Pouyanné’s full assurance that Papua LNG is continuing to move forward.” He explained that following the first round of Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) tenders, estimated project costs had increased to approximately US$18 billion, reflecting global inflation, supply-chain pressures and higher financing costs. However, he said TotalEnergies has since undertaken a comprehensive cost-reduction exercise. “They have worked extremely hard and managed to reduce close to US$4 billion in projected cost increases,” he said. The Prime Minister said the project remains economically viable at an estimated construction cost of around US$14 billion, ensuring acceptable investor returns while preserving national value. On the Wafi-Golpu Gold and Copper Project, Prime Minister Marape said he met with Mr. Patrice Motsepe, Chairman of Harmony Gold Mining Company. He confirmed that the independent peer review process addressing outstanding technical matters is nearing completion. On the Wafi-Golpu Gold and Copper Project, Prime Minister Marape said he met with Mr. Patrice Motsepe, Chairman of Harmony Gold Mining Company. He confirmed that the independent peer review process addressing outstanding technical matters is nearing completion. “The peer review team is expected to return its findings before the end of this month,” he said. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the State’s commitment to participate meaningfully in the project. “The State intends to participate at 30 per cent equity in Wafi-Golpu,” he said. “The State must not be questioned about its ability to finance its equity. The State does not go broke — it refinances over time.” He said the Government stands ready to bring Harmony Gold and Newmont Corporation together to conclude remaining issues and progress the project toward development approval. 

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Women’s National Football Team has begun preparations for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Fiji from 27th February to 7th March 2026.A 40-member provisional squad has assembled in Lae city and is currently training at the PNG Football Association (PNGFA) Academy at 11-Mile, as part of a structured national team program designed to ensure full readiness for the regional tournament. The squad is being guided by Head Coach Ericson Komeng, assisted by assistant coach Edna Thomas and goalkeeper coach David Kaura, who are overseeing technical preparation, performance standards, and player development throughout the camp. The national program commenced with medical assessments on 18th January 2026, followed by Training Camp One, which runs from 19th January to 14th February 2026 in Lae. This phase of preparation is focused on physical conditioning, tactical systems, and squad evaluation. PNGFA has also engaged PNG High Performance Sport to support the team through specialized high-performance training sessions. The final squad for the qualifiers will be announced on 14th February 2026, after which players will observe a short break from 14th to 17th February. The team will then reconvene in Port Moresby for final medical assessments on 18th February, followed by Training Camp Two from 19th to 23rd February 2026, which will serve as the final stage of preparations before departure. The PNG Women’s National Team is scheduled to depart for Fiji on 24th February 2026, ahead of the official tournament window. Papua New Guinea has been drawn in Group B, alongside Vanuatu, host nation Fiji, and New Caledonia, setting up a highly competitive group-stage campaign. The OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2026 form part of Oceania’s pathway to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™, with Papua New Guinea aiming to deliver a strong performance on the regional stage. PNGFA has reaffirmed its commitment to the continued growth of women’s football through elite training environments, consistent national team activity, and long-term development pathways. Further updates, including squad announcements and match schedules, will be released through PNGFA’s official communication channels.

The Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) is supporting students along the Kokoda Track with school fee assistance this year.KTA will meet 100 percent tuition fees for landowner students along the track whose parents cannot afford to meet their children's tuition fees, while 70 percent of the fees will be met by the KTA for working class parents that reside in Port Moresby city. KTA Chairman, Mr. Jack Deia says the school fee assistance program will cater for students attending various tertiary institutions and Universities in the country. He says it is a massive undertaking by the KTA to recognize communities and villages along the track through the school fee assistance program. He said the school fee assistance program was part of the package the new board of the KTA prioritized when it came into office in 2024. " KTA gets government funding of K5 million annually, that gives space for the tracking fees we collect around K1.2million annually. '' That money (tracking fees) was supposed to go back to the communities along the track. However, that has never eventuated since the establishment of KTA. "Last year, the board decided to use the government funding to run the affairs of the KTA and resolved to use the track fees to give back to the people, in the form of school fee assistance program,” Deia said. He said there are no economic benefits on the track and locals find it hard to generate revenues to cater for their children's education. " So, we are giving back to the communities through the school fee assistance program," he said. He said last year KTA rolled out over K200,000 for the school fee assistance program. He said this year, KTA is expected to rollout K300, 000 to K400, 000 with the influx of students coming in for assistance. Meanwhile, he said KTA will do away with overseas sponsorship that is too costly.

A police officer attached to the Northern Mobile Group is using football as a pathway to engage young people in the Wau–Waria district, aiming to reduce youth involvement in crime and encourage constructive lifestyles. Constable Hans Khapa, who is stationed at the Northern Mobile Group headquarters in Lae, is currently deployed in Wau–Waria and has taken the opportunity to join a local football competition to reconnect with young people from his home area. While his primary role in the district is operational, Khapa said participating in sport allows him to interact with youths in a more informal and meaningful way. “Being part of the tournament gives me a chance to engage with young people beyond police duties,” he said. “Sport is a powerful way to unite them and keep their attention on something positive.” Khapa explained that many youth-related challenges can be reduced when young people are occupied with organized activities that promote discipline and teamwork. “When youths are involved in sport, they are busy, focused, and learning to work together. This helps steer them away from negative influences,” he said. He said football also supports community policing by breaking down barriers between law enforcement and young people, creating space for dialogue and guidance. “On the field, we are players first,” Khapa said. “It opens the door to conversations, mentorship, and encouragement. Winning matters but shaping good attitudes matters more.” Khapa noted that across many districts, sport continues to play a key role in fostering unity, respect, and peaceful communities. “Keeping young people engaged in sport helps them stay on the right path and contributes to harmony within the community,” he said. Despite the difficulties involved in organizing sporting events, Khapa said the positive influence on youth behaviour makes the effort worthwhile, as football continues to inspire young people and strengthen community ties.

Improved weather conditions are expected to allow Friday’s round of OFC Pro League matches to proceed as scheduled at North Harbour Stadium, following a complete washout on Tuesday.South Island United will head into their afternoon clash refreshed, after their midweek fixture against Fiji’s Bula FC was postponed due to poor weather. They are set to face Vanuatu United FC at 3.00pm, with both sides looking to build momentum in the competition. Vanuatu United forward Jordy Tasip, who found the back of the net in his team’s 3–1 loss to Auckland FC on Tuesday night, will come up against several familiar faces. Tasip previously played alongside a number of South Island United players during his stint with Christchurch United in last season’s New Zealand National League. “They're good friends to me, so tomorrow is a special game for me,” Tasip said, as he prepares to reunite with Steven van Dijk, Ollie van Rijssel, Riley Grover, Charlie Beale, and injured forward Josh Rogerson. South Island United vice-captain Ollie van Rijssel welcomed the reunion, praising his former teammate. “He's a legend, isn’t he,” van Rijssel said. “I think he enjoyed his time with us, apart from the cold weather maybe. He’s a worker and he’ll just get stuck in.” Vanuatu United head coach Lars Hopp indicated he is likely to rotate his squad, with Friday’s match marking the team’s third game in six days. In the evening fixture, Auckland FC will aim to maintain their perfect start to the tournament when they take on Bula FC at 7.00pm. Luke Casserly’s side has recorded two wins from two matches so far. “We’re really looking forward to the game,” Casserly said. “We’re two from two, so there’s a good feeling within the group, and the players are excited to be running out again on Friday night. “Everyone wants to play, which is a great position to be in as a coach, but we also need to respect the situation. Bula FC will be well rested after their midweek match was called off, and they looked dangerous against Vanuatu.” Bula FC head coach Stephane Auvray said his team is ready for a strong contest. “We will have some good players with fresh legs, and hopefully the result will be ours,” Auvray said. Friday’s fixtures are expected to play a key role in shaping the early standings of the OFC Pro League as teams take advantage of improved conditions to resume competition.                         

The National Department of Health is closely observing an increase in the number of respiratory flu cases across the country. The virus has been identified as Influenza A, Subtype H3N2, (Flu A) according to the PNG Institute of Medical Research after testing at the Goroka Laboratory.Despite the virus being confirmed as seasonal, the NDoH is sending a word of caution to the public, advising them to take preventative measures such as, keeping away from large gatherings, washing hands, increasing ventilation and wearing a face mask when necessary. “This virus is seasonal influenza similar to Flu waves in the country.” “There is insufficient evidence to declare an outbreak, however, we are carefully monitoring case numbers and community members are advised to take this seriously to protect themselves and their families.” The Flu Strain (H3N2) is also affecting other countries globally and can have more severe effects than previous flu strains particularly towards communities with low prior immunity. According to the NDoH, people most at risk include: Elderly (50 years and above) and young children (infants under 5 years being the most vulnerable) Individuals living with other medical conditions that weaken their immune system (Diabetes, HIV, TB, Cancer and other Chronic illnesses) Pregnant women Updates will be provided as the NDoH closely monitors the situation.

The Nawaeb District Development Authority (DDA) has officially launched the Finongan–Gafang–Bungki–Wawin Ring Road Project, a major initiative to improve access and development in Upper Erap in the Morobe province.The launch took place at Finongan Village on 6th January 2026. Fully funded by the DDA and contracted under Port, the project aims to connect remote communities and boost socio-economic growth. Local villagers actively led the opening ceremony, showing strong community ownership and partnership. The project is led by Nawaeb Open MP Theo Pelgen, whose vision is to “reach and connect the unreached.” The Ring Road will improve access to markets, health services, schools, and government services, while creating new economic opportunities for rural households. Mr. Pelgen said, “This road is more than just infrastructure, it is a lifeline that will connect our people, reduce isolation, and open doors for development across Upper Erap.” The DDA will continue working with communities, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure the road benefits the people in the long term.

The unity shown by the political leaders of Enga province in the face of illegal guns fueling tribal conflicts has been applauded by the prime minister, calling it a united stand on peace and law and order.The issue of illegal guns up in the highlands of Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been continuous, but the counter movement has been equally continuous as well, and with a unifying front now pushing for changes in Enga, it could yield some positive results going forward. Responding to a media publication on one of the daily newspapers, Prime Minister James Marape said the image of Enga’s leaders standing together sent a powerful message not only to the province, but to the entire nation. “As I woke up this morning in Davos and read the Post-Courier headline, the smile and unity reflected on that front page brought me genuine warmth,” Prime Minister Marape said.“It reminded me that leadership, humility and unity remain the strongest weapons we have against violence.”The Prime Minister particularly commended Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, the new Police Minister Sir John Pundari, and former Kandep MP Don Polye for stepping forward together to place peace above political differences. “Greater is the man who makes submission to his fellow men,” Prime Minister Marape said. “God blesses humility. The Bible tells us, ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.’ What we are witnessing in Enga today is leadership guided by that spirit.”Prime Minister Marape also appealed strongly to the people of Enga — particularly those who operate anonymously or seek to stir division between leaders — to allow the current leadership to do its work.The prime minister is currently in Davos, Switzerland for the 2026 World Economic Forum.

The Child Nutrition and Social Protection (CNSP) Project has set an ambitious target to reach 30,000 beneficiaries in 2026 as it enters a new phase focused on growth and decentralization.As of the end of 2025, the project had registered 10,812 beneficiaries across four participating provinces—East New Britain, Simbu, Western, and Madang provinces. The update was announced during the 2026 CNSP Component Management Unit 2 (CMU 2) Plenary Workshop, which opened in Port Moresby on Monday. The week-long workshop, held under the theme “Scale Back and Scale Up,” brings together national and provincial teams to review progress and plan implementation strategies for the year ahead. To support the expanded target, the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR), as custodian of the CNSP Project’s CMU 2, signed a Service Level Agreement with MiBank. The agreement is aimed at strengthening decentralized project implementation at the sub-national level and improving the integration of Management Information System (MIS) data with MiBank beneficiary account records. DFCDR Secretary Jerry Ubase thanked MiBank for its continued support, saying the partnership would play a critical role in achieving the 2026 beneficiary target. He also acknowledged the efforts of provincial implementation teams and the national CMU 2 team for progress made to date. “From this year onwards, provincial teams will be scaled up, while the national team will focus on coordination to ensure effective implementation of the project,” Mr. Ubase said. Following a mid-term review conducted last year, the project expanded eligibility from children aged 0–2 years to 0–5 years. Quarterly cash grants were doubled from K30 to K60 per beneficiary, while the number of Community Development Workers (CDWs) increased to more than 140. Monthly allowances for CDWs were also raised from K400 to K600. CMU 2 Project Manager Joseph Klapat credited the Secretary’s leadership for the project’s achievements and outlined plans to progressively transfer responsibilities from the national level to provincial administrations. Workshop participants include Provincial Community Development Advisors, Provincial Project Coordinators, CDW Coordinators, Local-Level Government Managers, and national CMU 2 staff. Provincial coordinators presented reflections on 2025, highlighting achievements, challenges, and proposed strategies moving forward. The plenary workshop is expected to conclude on Friday with the finalization of national and provincial implementation plans and budgets for 2026.

Polling for the Dei Open by election in Western Highlands province began on Saturday, January 17th as scheduled with the election writs expected to be returned on February 20th.The Acting Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Margaret Vagi confirmed this while calling on voters and candidates to remain calm and respectful throughout the polling and counting period. She urged everyone involved to follow proper legal processes to ensure a smooth and fair election. She said officers from the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNGEC) operations branch, training section and awareness team have been deployed to the electorate. They are supporting officers on the ground and working closely with Returning Officers (ROs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) to ensure polling runs successfully. Mrs. Vagi also raised concern over reports of early campaigning for the 2027 National General Elections and warned candidates, political parties and supporters to stop the practice immediately. “Early campaigning for the NGE2027 is illegal and can cost a candidate or a party disqualification or fines under electoral and national laws,” Mrs. Vagi said. “Do not do early campaigning; this includes social media and online platforms as well. There are applicable laws that can be utilized and those defaulting candidates, parties and their supporters will be charged under relevant laws,” she said. Meanwhile, Mrs. Vagi said public awareness for the 2027 National General Elections has already started. Information messages will be shared through Facebook and the media, particularly on the National Broadcasting Corporation radio network. The Acting Electoral Commissioner is confident the government will fully fund PNGEC operations in 2026 as preparations continue for the 2027 National Elections.

Saltwater crocodiles lately have been seen along the Aroma Coast in the Central province where there have been instances of attacks, prompting action from locals as the area is fast becoming a regular hot spot for these extremely dangerous reptiles.According to a Community Leader Mr. Avis Vanua, several attacks by crocodiles cannot go unnoticed. “Yes, the crocodiles made several attacks; therefore, I came up with this initiative of placing the sign boards to warn people to stay out of danger zones,” he said. Mr. Vanua confirmed that he had approached several relevant government agencies to provide support in terms of funding the “Beach Crocodile Signage Warning Boards” initiative. “I am glad to have the support of the National Disaster Centre (NDC), the Disaster Risk Management (DRM) team, PNG Climate Change (PNGCC) and the Central Provincial Disaster and Emergency office. This support has made it possible for me to build and put up crocodile warning signage board,” he said. Mr. Vanua said the sign boards will stand to remind the Aroma people to take precaution when going to the beach. He also urged the good people of Aroma to look after the sign boards. The initiative is being supported by the Central Provincial Government through acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Bala Kapa and the East and West Aroma Local Level Government (LLG) in Abau District. Mr. Vanua said he would also consult PNG CCDA and CEPA to install VHF/UHF radios in Paramana to monitor and report any movements of crocodiles.