Three community sawmills have been delivered to Mata-Garaita, Weam, and Wando in the South Fly District under the PNG–Australia Partnership competitive grants program, aimed at boosting local livelihoods and infrastructure development.The sawmills will help communities produce timber for repairing schools, churches, and health facilities, while also creating income opportunities in remote parts of Western Province.The Western Provincial Administration contributed 7% of the required 10 per cent (%) community funding, with support from Morehead LLG.South Fly MP Sekie Agisa said the project is a long-term investment and encouraged communities to take full ownership and responsibility for its success.“This project is an important investment for the people of Wando, and I encourage the community to take full ownership of the sawmill and manage it well, so it continues to benefit everyone for years to come.”Australian High Commission acting Minister-Counsellor Craig Gillies said the initiative reflects strong collaboration between governments and local communities.“These sawmills are a great example of what happens when we work together, in this case in close collaboration with the Western Provincial Administration, the South Fly District Administration, and local communities.”Local operators will receive training in sawmill operation, maintenance, and safety, with management to be overseen by community committees and ward development officers.This is part of broader efforts to strengthen economic development and resilience in Western Province.

SP Brewery has reinforced its commitment to Morobe Province with the commissioning of a rooftop solar power system and the opening of a new warehouse at its Lae Brewery.The projects, officially launched on Friday, are expected to improve the company's operational efficiency while supporting its long-term sustainability goals and strengthening its presence in Papua New Guinea's industrial hub.Speaking at the event, SP Brewery Managing Director Ed Weggemans said Morobe Province continues to play a vital role in the company's operations."Morobe Province's strategic location has significantly benefited our business over the years," Mr. Weggemans said. "The province is home to our second and largest brewery, and we currently employ 119 staff, many of whom are from Morobe Province and surrounding communities."He said the company remains committed to investing in its workforce through training, skills development and career advancement opportunities to build a capable and empowered local workforce.The rooftop solar installation marks another step in SP Brewery's efforts to reduce its environmental impact as part of its net-zero emissions journey."At SP Brewery, we believe that we will only thrive if the people and the communities around us thrive. That is why we are on a mission to reduce our carbon footprint," Mr. Weggemans said.He said the company aims to progressively replace fossil fuel energy with renewable energy sources.SP Brewery also officially opened a new warehouse facility, which the company says will enhance storage, distribution and sales operations from its Lae brewery.According to Mr. Weggemans, the expanded facility is expected to benefit the wider local economy by improving the company's ability to serve customers across the region."By strengthening our distribution and sales capabilities, we are supporting businesses that rely on our products," he said. "This creates a ripple effect—from local suppliers and transport providers to small businesses and families who benefit from a more vibrant economy."The commissioning ceremony was attended by SP Brewery staff and customers, who witnessed the opening of both the solar power system and the new warehouse facility.

Twenty-one women from across Papua New Guinea have been selected as finalists in the 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women's Awards (WOW Awards), recognising their leadership, innovation and contributions to their communities and industries.The finalists were chosen across seven award categories, representing women whose work is creating positive change in business, the public sector, community organisations, sports, the arts and environmental sustainability.The announcement marks the next stage of the annual awards program ahead of the official awards ceremony, which will be held in Port Moresby on Saturday, July 25. Winners in each category will be announced during the event, along with the Overall 2026 Westpac Outstanding Woman of the Year.This year's finalists are:Entrepreneur: Judy Ejampi, Martha Raka, and Sylvia Pascoe.Private Sector: Orpah Peter, Rita Karaie and Stella Ipang.Not-for-Profit: Naomi Longa, Jacqueline Mary Boga Garoau and Sr. Bolena Azimo.Public Sector: Debra Sungi, Elizabeth Tandoa and Fiona Gesa.Sports and Arts: Edith Monagi, Susanne Sere and Wosi Kaeyo.Sustainability: Deborah Yassa Yulu, Emma Oliver, and Kiteni Kurika.Young Achiever: Getta Kambar, Naomi Dubabagi and Zimmah Neinaka.Westpac PNG Board Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley said the finalists reflect the strength, resilience and leadership of women who are making a difference across the country.She said the awards celebrate women who are helping shape stronger communities, workplaces and industries while inspiring others through their dedication and service.Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low said the awards demonstrate the bank's long-standing commitment to supporting communities throughout the Pacific.She said recognising outstanding women not only celebrates their achievements but also helps create opportunities for future generations.Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the finalists exemplify what can be achieved through determination, talent and a strong sense of purpose.He said their work is helping build stronger communities while contributing to a more inclusive future for Papua New Guinea.Each category winner will receive a K5,000 grant to further support their projects and community initiatives.In the lead-up to the awards night, Westpac PNG will feature profiles of each finalist across its communication platforms, highlighting their achievements and the impact they are making throughout Papua New Guinea.

Fourteen volunteers and their respective supervisors underwent a week-long Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) which was conducted by the National Volunteer Service (NVS) at Okari Campus in Lae, Morobe Province.The training, ran from June 22 to 26, was aimed to equip volunteers with the knowledge, skills, policies and procedures required to effectively serve their communities in the health and education sectors.The orientation serves as a critical induction process, preparing volunteers for deployment, and reinforcing the values of volunteerism, community service, and teamwork.Speaking at the opening of the training, NVS Executive Officer Poponu Wenda urged participants to fully embrace the program and understand the role and responsibilities of theNational Volunteer Service before returning to their respective communities.“Volunteerism is about commitment, sacrifice and service. Volunteers should not work in isolation but must work together as a team to achieve meaningful outcomes for thecommunities they serve,” Mr. Wenda said.He also emphasized the important role supervisors play in ensuring volunteers are effectively supported and monitored while carrying out their duties.“Supervisors are very important in the community. You are the leaders and support system forthese volunteers.""You have a significant responsibility to be present on the ground and monitor the work being carried out,” he said.One of the participants, Community Health Worker Cathy Jim from Malaman Community Health Post in Komba Village, Kabwum District, expressed her appreciation for the orientation.“I am happy to be part of this Pre-Service Orientation. There are many things I need to learn,and I am excited to better understand how NVS operates and what is expected of me as avolunteer,” she said.NVS Societal Responsibility and Partnerships Manager Rodney Uvovo, who is leading the NVS team in Morobe Province, said he was confident the orientation would adequately prepare volunteers for service in their communities.He said the training would ensure volunteers clearly understand their roles and responsibilities and are equipped to contribute effectively to community development initiatives.National Volunteer Service remains committed to supporting the Government’s efforts to improve service delivery in the health and education sectors, particularly in remote and underserved communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

Four female staff of Vanguard International graduated from a leadership program under PNG Tribal Foundation on Wednesday 24th June 2026, here in Port Moresby.A small but significant event for the organization, with the entire staff turning up in numbers to witness the staff attaining certificates for the completion of the 11-week program covering the 11 values through the Senisim PNG Program.Seven others will soon complete the program.They are now certified facilitators who can create their own tables with five to 10 members to facilitate transformation of tables either in their workplace, home, community, church, or anywhere.Mr. Michael Elton, Commercial Manager for Vanguard International, congratulated the staff for taking a step forward in leadership growth for themselves and urged them to be better versions of themselves.“Change starts within us before we go out to change others.”Mr. Elton emphasized the lack of ethical leadership at all levels in the country and said that to change the country in the next 50 years, it starts with individuals.Ms. Anzilla Miro, General Manager for Vanguard International, also stated that an employee with qualifications but without values will put you off the line.“You’re qualified for the office you hold, but if your values are misaligned, you will go off the radar, and that is the reality of life,” she said.She challenged the staff to live by the values of honesty, commitment, integrity, listening, purpose, among others.She said values cannot be borrowed from someone; they live within you.

The Watom Local Level Government (LLG) in the Rabaul District of East New Britain province, has officially commissioned its first-ever Junior High School on the island.This major educational milestone follows the opening of a new 3-in-1 classroom that will cater to grade nine students at the newly upgraded Billy Memorial Junior High School, located in the Rau-Taranata ward.As one of the oldest educational institutions on the island- originally established in the 1960s- the school boasts a long history of producing many successful professionals over the decades.Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony, Rabaul MP Dr. Allan Marat commended the Rabaul District Administration Infrastructure and Implementation Unit, alongside contractor Atlu Mas Construction, for successfully completing the vital project.“As human beings, we have basic needs and having access to quality education is one of them,” said Dr. Marat.“This new 3-in-1 classroom for Billy Memorial Junior High fulfils that crucial need for the people of Watom.”Dr. Marat further stressed that a child’s education ultimately begins at home.He noted that some parents fail to play their fundamental role as first teachers, only to later shift the blame to educators and law enforcers when issues arise.Headmaster for Billy Memorial Junior High School, Mision Warpin, expressed his profound gratitude toward the District Administration and the Rabaul District Development Authority (DDA) for providing the new classroom for the grade nine intakes.“Now our children on the island do not have to travel to the mainland to do grade nine. That has been brought closer to them, and it also lowers the risks of students commuting by boats,” said Mr. Warpin.Looking ahead, local authorities have confirmed that plans are already in place to establish a college and a vocational center in the future to cater to the growing student population on the island.

The National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has provided K300, 000 to the PNG Kickboxing Federation to stage its Last Man Standing Series, promoting youth participation in sport, healthy lifestyle, discipline, and talent development nationwide.The funding support reflects the National Government’s commitment to empowering young people through sport and creating structured pathways for aspiring athletes to pursue excellence at both national and international levels.Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the support, describing sport as an important platform for youth development and nation-building.“Sport has the power to transform lives, build character, and unite communities. It provides our young people with opportunities to develop discipline, leadership, resilience, and a sense of purpose,” Prime Minister Marape said.“The Government remains committed to supporting initiatives that create positive pathways for our youth and encourage them to pursue their talents and ambitions.”“The Last Man Standing Series is an excellent example of how sport can be used as a vehicle to inspire, empower, and develop future champions for Papua New Guinea.”“I commend the National Gaming Control Board for partnering with the PNG Kickboxing Federation to support this important initiative and for continuing to invest in programs that deliver meaningful benefits to our people.”Meanwhile, Minister for Bougainville Affairs and Minister responsible for the National Gaming Control Board Manasseh Makiba, said the funding aligns with the government’s vision of supporting community-based initiatives that contribute to youth empowerment and social development.“Our young people are our greatest asset, and investing in their development is investing in the future of Papua New Guinea,” Minister Makiba said.“The National Gaming Control Board’s Give Back Program continues to support initiatives that deliver tangible and lasting benefits to communities throughout the country.”“Through this support, we are not only promoting sport but also encouraging positive lifestyle, discipline, community engagement, and personal development among our youth.”Minister Makiba also stated that the Federation’s Last Man Standing Series would provide a valuable platform for young athletes to showcase their talents, gain competitive experience, and pursue opportunities in professional sport.NGCB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Registrar Ms. Imelda Agon reiterated that the Board is pleased to partner with the PNG Kickboxing Federation in advancing a program that aligns with the objectives of the Give Back Program.“Sport remains one of the most effective tools for youth empowerment and social development,” Ms. Agon said.“Through this support, we hope to encourage greater participation in sport while creating opportunities for young people to realize their full potential.”“The Last Man Standing Series provides a structured pathway for aspiring athletes to develop their skills, compete at a high level, and represent Papua New Guinea with pride.”“We are pleased to support an initiative that promotes excellence, discipline, and positive community engagement.”Expressing gratitude on behalf of the sport, the PNG Kickboxing Federation’s Founding President, Mr. Stanley Nandex, expressed gratitude to the National Government and the National Gaming Control Board for their support.“The funding will significantly assist the Federation in delivering the Last Man Standing Series and expanding opportunities for young athletes across the country,” said Mr. Nandex.“This support will help us identify, nurture, and develop talent while promoting kickboxing as a sport that instils discipline, respect, and determination.”The funding assistance was made through the NGCB’s Give Back Program, which continues to support projects and initiatives that improve the lives of individuals and communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

The Provincial Executive Council has officially appointed the new board of the Morobe Fisheries Management Authority, which includes the National Fisheries Authority and Provincial Fisheries Authority as Ex Officio Members.Leadership of the freshly constituted board is anchored by Chairman John Kasu and Deputy Chairman Fabian Chow, who represents the shipping sector.They are joined by Hilmar Wong, a naval architect and shipwright, alongside Glenn Mesias, the General Manager of Frabelle, who represents the Fishing Industry Association.Rounding out the board’s diverse expertise are a Fisika representative; Weti Zozingao, the Authority’s former Provincial Programme Adviser; Misech Abraham, representing Inland Fisheries and the Anga region; and Benson Nablu, the former Secretary of the Department of Morobe and representative for the Huon region.In light of these appointments, Governor Rainbo Paita acknowledged that the Morobe Fisheries Authority has legislative oversight and an existing Memorandum of Understanding with its national counterpart that urgently needs to be revisited.Governor Paita emphasized that the Memorandum of Understanding and legislation governing the Morobe Fisheries Management Authority “must now be reviewed in its entirety — for it reflects current realities and defines responsibilities with a clarity that has long been wanting.”Under this new direction, the provincial fisheries authority is expected to shift its focus toward creating local fish markets and providing poppers for small-scale fisherfolks.Additionally, the board is tasked with building strategic networks with the five major canneries and loining plants to boost employment and economic spinoffs, while placing a much heavier emphasis on training within local TVET and SME activities.Governor Paita will specifically task the incoming Kayanga board to resolve the long-standing management of fisheries assets and land without further delay, with a particular focus on the properties located at the Malahang Industrial Centre.Responding on behalf of the newly appointed board, Mr. Nablu firmly stated that the Authority is not a body of convenience but a statutory authority with legal weight and obligation.He assured the public that the board members are fully committed to executing the development vision laid out by Governor Paita and the Provincial Executive Council.Mr. Nablu spoke with evident confidence regarding the board’s composition, highlighting the deep industry knowledge, export expertise, international perspective, and rich local experience available around the table.“We have the right people in the right place,” Mr. Nablu said. “And now we have the roadmap. We are here to get things done, and we will bring home the result that the government expects.”In closing, he thanked Mr. Kayanga, Governor Rainbo Paita, and the Provincial Executive Council for their trust, pledging that it would be repaid with absolute integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Thirteen agriculture volunteers recently completed a week-long Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) designed to prepare them for deployment across the Local Level Governments (LLGs) of Central Province.This initiative follows a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the National Volunteer Service (NVS) and the Central Provincial government.The orientation program, launched at the Believe Community Hub Hall in Kupiano Station, Abau District, aims to equip the volunteers with the necessary knowledge and skills to support agricultural development initiatives, with a primary focus on cocoa production to stimulate economic growth and enhance rural livelihoods.The opening ceremony was officiated by Abau District Administrator Mr. Trevor Tararau, who welcomed the partnership and reaffirmed the district’s commitment to supporting the program.Mr. Tararau acknowledged Central Governor Rufina Peter for spearheading the collaboration with the National Volunteer Service and championing efforts to strengthen agricultural activities throughout the province.“We see economic development in the province as a priority. NVS coming in to assist us is a bonus,” Mr. Tararau said.He further assured stakeholders that the Abau District Administration stands ready to support the initiative through the provision of time, resources, and ongoing cooperation.During the launch, NVS Director for Volunteer Management Division Mr. Kelly Aisi, congratulated the volunteers and encouraged them as they embark on their service journey.“The journey of a volunteer is challenging. Thank you for your spirit of sacrifice and commitment,” Mr. Aisi said.Ms. Anna Aisa, Executive Officer to the Chairman for Community Development of the Provincial Executive Council, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the critical role agriculture continues to play in sustaining rural communities.“Agriculture remains the backbone of many of our communities,” said Ms. Aisa. “Through the dedication of volunteers, knowledge and practical skills can reach farmers at the grassroots level, helping them improve production, generate income, and build more resilient communities.”Intensive training sessions commenced immediately following the opening ceremony and continued throughout the week, wrapping up on Thursday.The volunteers then participated in a formal induction ceremony on Friday, 26 June, right before being officially deployed to their respective LLGs across Central Province.These volunteers are expected to play a vital role in supporting farmers, promoting agricultural best practices, and contributing to sustainable community development.Their deployment marks another important step in the ongoing partnership between NVS and the Central Provincial Government to strengthen rural economies and create lasting opportunities for communities throughout the province.

A collective number of health clinicians and frontline workers from the East New Britian Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA), Catholic Church Health Services, Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Health, and the United Church Health sector recently partnered with the Burnette Institute for an intensive, week-long adolescent health training program.The initiative is part of Burnet’s broader commitment to improving sexual and reproductive health for maternal and child health across the Asia- Pacific.In the province, twenty-five percent of the population is made up of adolescents (10-24 years of age) where there is minimal health care accessibility.Rising issues encountered as teenage pregnancy, Sexually Transmitted Infection/ Human Immunodeficiency Virus (STI/HIV), suicide, mental health disorders, drug and alcohol abuse, school dropout, and sexual violence, are becoming a barrier for responsive care that health staff need to cater for.ENB PHA Family Health Coordinator Gerarda Vinia said it is extremely important for health staff to understanding how to respond to sensitive adolescent concerns.“The focus of the training is on developing the understanding, communication skills and confidence to deal effectively with adolescent clients.”“Also, staff must know how they can empower young people with knowledge around puberty, pregnancy prevention, and reproductive rights.”She further stated that it is equally important that adolescents who suffer from mental health are fully assisted well.“There are a high number of young people tending to drug and alcohol abuse because they are mentally disturbed from problems and psychologically affected.”“It is a concern for us health to start addressing the emotional, social and psychological challenges.”As the province’s lead health provider, the ENBPHA faces a lot of challenges in implementing adolescent health care.Through this partnership with the Burnette Institute who actively conducts Adolescent training in PNG, a practical hands-on guide has been introduced to help clinicians seamlessly integrate adolescent care into daily operations.The new guide aligns with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and national policies to establish youth friendly health services focusing on:Privacy space to discuss issues with confidentiality.Health workers to be non judgemental when it comes to adolescent space.To set up a day at the facility. Currently we have only clinics for mother and children but not adolescence.To have enough stock available at all clinics for example condoms, pregnancy test kits and IBC materials.While this provides a clear path forward, challenges will also be face in terms of implementation such as:Putting the skills to work with a private space to accommodate adolescents.Referral pathway for adolescent to be strengthened.Proper documentation and data analysis pathways.Supervision- active supervision and mentoring from senior nurses to build confidence.The following recommendations have been put forward for the Provincial Health Authority to look into and action which includes:Making all clinics youth friendly.Ensure that trained staff are present to attend to them.Secure supplies or stock should be available at all times.Community and parent engagement involvement in adolescent activities.Data Accountability- for the National HIV Surveillance System (NHSS) does not capture all levels of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) data.The ENBPHA has expressed its gratitude to the Burnet Institute and church-run health facilities for their collaborative efforts in elevating adolescent healthcare to a top priority in the province.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has formally outlined its final position on Bougainville’s political future, proposing a clear and peaceful pathway towards self-government and eventual independence.  President Hon. Ishmael Toroama presented the position recently to the Independent Facilitator overseeing the Joint Technical consultations between ABG and the National Government, reaffirming that Bougainville’s aspirations are grounded in the Bougainville Peace Agreement, the Constitution of Papua New Guinea and the commitments that have guided the peace process over the past two decades. “Today, I stand before you to present the final position of the Autonomous Bougainville Government regarding Self-government and Independence for Bougainville,” President Toroama said. The final position proposes a three-stage pathway.Under the proposal, Bougainville will continue preparations for self-government until 1 September 2027, focusing on strengthening institutions, governance systems, peace and security, and economic readiness.From 1 September 2027, Bougainville would enter a period of self-government, exercising the fullest practical and constitutional authority available under the existing legal framework, including additional powers provided under Section 289 of the Constitution.The proposal further envisages Bougainville attaining independence in 2030 as defined during the referendum process as an independent nation-state recognized under international law and separate from the State of Papua New Guinea. President Toroama said the pathway provides certainty, preserves peace and honours the democratic choice expressed by the people of Bougainville.He said Bougainville has consistently honoured both the letter and spirit of the Peace Agreement through dialogue, consultation and constitutional processes.“This position is not founded on emotion or convenience. It is founded on the Bougainville Peace Agreement, on Part XIV of the Constitution of Papua New Guinea, and on the solemn commitments and agreements that have guided our journey and preserved peace to date.”The President noted that the 2019 Referendum delivered a clear mandate from the people of Bougainville in favour of independence and that subsequent consultations between the ABG and the National Government had produced several important agreements, including the Joint Communique of 11 January 2021, the Kokopo Joint Statement, Wabag Joint Statement, APEC Joint Statement, Era Kone Covenant and the Melanesian Agreement.The President emphasized that Bougainville remains committed to dialogue, consultation and constructive engagement with the Government of Papua New Guinea.“Our objective has never been confrontation. Our objective has always been reconciliation, partnership and a peaceful transition founded on law and mutual respect.”He reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a strong and cooperative relationship between Bougainville and Papua New Guinea regardless of future political arrangements.President Toroama also called on the people of Bougainville to remain united, patient and committed to protecting the peace achieved through years of reconciliation and dialogue.The ABG maintains that the proposed pathway represents a practical and peaceful framework for advancing Bougainville’s political future while safeguarding stability, democracy and the gains made through the peace process.  Following the presentation of the final position, President Toroama formally handed the Bougainville Final Position Paper to the Independent Facilitator and the Chief Secretary to the Government of Papua New Guinea, marking the formal submission of Bougainville’s final position. 

Acting President and Minister for Treasury and Finance, Hon. Albert Punghau, officially launched the Cost-of Services Report recently in Buka.The report, titled ‘From Here To There’, commissioned by the ABG in partnership with the NEFC, was initially conducted to determine the costs of government administration and service delivery as Bougainville moves towards independence.In his keynote address, Minister Punghau was highlighted the challenges ahead, noting that the 97.7% vote for independence must be matched by "fiscal readiness". He described the current understanding of government costs as an "iceberg" where many expenses have remained hidden within national agency allocations in Waigani.“The report we launch today, ‘From Here To There’ speaks directly to both governments; the National Government of PNG and the Autonomous Bougainville Government on the financial stewardship of our people’s resources, and the political responsibility of building Bougainville into nationhood, after the people of Bougainville voted 97.7% for Independence under Part XIV of the PNG Constitution,” he said."For too long, the true cost of governing Bougainville has been obscured: some costs visible in our ABG budget, others buried within national agency allocations in Waigani, and still more invisible entirely," Punghau stated. The report utilized Bougainville-specific data including GIS mapping and price surveys, to account for the unique costs of reaching scattered atolls and inaccessible mountain communities.Minister Punghau acknowledged the National Economic Fiscal Commission for their partnership, and particularly for bringing a Bougainville-specific methodology to this exercise.As the Autonomous Region of Bougainville progresses with its independence-readiness efforts, this report identifies the specific areas in which the ABG needs to improve in sectoral administration and service delivery.“Bougainville’s journey towards independence, which our people voted for, must be met by fiscal readiness. A sovereign people must be served by a government that can sustain itself.”“President Toroama’s vision is of a Bougainville built on peace, rooted in our identity, and capable of governing itself with competence and pride. The work we do today, the planning, the costing, the accountability, lays a foundation for that Bougainville,” Punghau said.Minister Punghau acknowledged that ABG still depends on the National Government grants and that its internal revenue remains low. “This report now gives us the evidence-based foundation to build a more credible budget architecture, to guide our drawdown of powers from Waigani, and to strengthen our engagement with development partners and the Government of Papua New Guinea on grants and the true cost of the responsibilities we are assuming.”