The Wapenamanda tribal violence between the Yakuman and Yangakuni tribes in Enga province remains ongoing despite the signing of Peace Agreement in Port Moresby Last week.The longstanding violence between the two rival tribes has prolonged from August to now November forcing Law Enforcement authorities to pursue and eliminate further conflicts and protect the innocent lives affected. Although the Upper Highlands provinces of Southern Highlands and Hela remain relatively quiet for the past few weeks, Wapenamada still remains intense despite the presence of Police and Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) efforts to eliminate further violence. Heading into Wapenamanda yesterday Sunday 23rd November, reinforcements from both the Special Operations Contingent-Mobile Squad (MS) 2 and Wapenamanda-based PNGDF personnel were led by Commander of the Special Operations in the Upper Highlands, Anthony Wagambi Jnr. Despite the signing of the peace agreement with the Yakuman tribe who are from Wapenamanda station, the Yangukim tribesmen launched a surprise attack a day after on Saturday 22nd November 2025. Moreover, personnel from the security force, including police and soldiers based at Wapenamanda acted swiftly to protect government facilities and brought the situation under control. Tribesmen fired shots at the security forces who returned with warning shots to bring the situation under control. Reinforcements of security forces led by Commander Wagambi converged into Wapenamanda early Sunday morning and assisted to quell the situation between the two warring tribes. Commander Wagambi’s reinforcement team from the Special Operations remain the whole day at Wapenamanda and returned to their Command Base in Mendi last night.

The 2026 National Budget will be presented in Parliament tomorrow, but the prime minister has already hinted a budget mark that is more than K30 billion, and one that will maintain the government’s fiscal and service delivery focus. Prime Minister (PM) James Marape in a press statement said the 2026 National Budget, to be delivered on Tuesday by Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey, will maintain the Government’s steady fiscal direction, strengthen essential services, and reinforce the long-term development priorities under MTDP IV and the national Reset PNG@50 programme. For the first time, the National Budget will pass the K30 billion mark, with over 88% of it funded from domestic revenue — achieved without raising taxes. The Prime Minister said the government’s fiscal position reflects the success of its disciplined long-term planning.“This Budget is fully aligned with the Government’s 13-Year Budget Repair Plan, which lays out a clear pathway to reduce debt, strengthen revenue, and restore long-term fiscal stability. We remain firmly committed to this plan. Our debt-reduction programme is tracking on target, and in 2026 we will record one of the smallest deficits in our nation’s recent history — bringing us much closer to a balanced budget by 2027.“Our domestic revenue performance continues to improve, not because we are introducing new taxes, but because the size and activity of the local economy are expanding. The increased volume of collections reflects real economic growth and stronger compliance across the system.”Prime Minister Marape emphasized that this year’s Budget is not aimed at dramatic shifts or surprises, but rather consolidating gains made over the past five years while responsibly managing inflation and supporting frontline services.“The 2026 Budget will present no surprises. It maintains stability, consistency, and disciplined planning. We are staying the course to ensure effective services and responsible growth,” he said.Prime Minister Marape also said the recurrent expenditures will be prioritized towards core services in 2026 ensuring salaries, goods, and services are fully supported for key priority areas. He noted that the Government is committed to protecting core public services so that schools, hospitals, police, and frontline agencies continue to function without disruption.He also confirmed that the GST relief on essential household items, introduced last year to great success, will continue to the end of 2026.“This measure remains in place because easing the cost of living for families is a priority, and we have already accounted for it in the Budget,” he said.

Papua New Guinea's trades sector is undergoing a transformation; from construction sites to shipping vessels and factory floors, women are increasingly taking on roles that were once inaccessible to them.Recently, the Meri Save Trades program celebrated its two-year milestone, highlighting these changes and demonstrating how inclusive workplaces are contributing to both business growth and national development. The program, run by the Business Coalition for Women (BCFW) in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation, part of the World Bank Group, and supported by the governments of Australia and New Zealand, works with businesses to create respectful work environments and open up new career opportunities for women in industries that have traditionally been male dominated. Since its launch, Meri Save Trades has partnered with 19 companies collectively employing more than 15,000 people, including Steamships, Brian Bell Group, Paradise Foods Limited, Pacific Industries, TWM, Rhodes PNG, National Capital District Commission, Air Niugini, Swire Shipping, Hebou Constructions, and Ruswin Integrated Solutions. These companies have introduced policies such as paid maternity leave and stronger grievance systems, helping women succeed in technical roles. Evonne Kennedy, Executive Director of BCFW, stated that creating respectful workplaces is beneficial to women, businesses and the country. “Through Meri Save Trades, we’ve seen companies take real steps to make that happen.” Providing women with equal opportunities in trades and technical fields can boost Papua New Guinea's economy and foster safer, more efficient workplaces. By investing in women's skills, businesses not only bridge gender gaps but also unlock significant growth potential. Currently, women represent just 31 percent of PNG’s employed population, and increasing access to trades and technical roles can help close this gap, strengthen businesses, and enhance national productivity. The event also featured the Meri Save Trades Photo Exhibition, which highlighted the inspiring stories of women excelling in construction, shipping, and manufacturing

A significant milestone was recently achieved in Take Anda, Wabag, with the official swearing-in of the long-awaited Mulitaka Resettlement Authority (MRA) Management Board.The event, organized by the Department of Provincial and Local Government Affairs (DPLGA), signals the start of coordinated restoration and development efforts for the Maip-Mulitaka community. The ceremony began with a prayer, followed by speeches from senior government officials. Representing the National Government, Philip Leo, Secretary for DPLGA, highlighted the importance of peace, unity, and community responsibility in guiding Mulitaka toward a positive future. He urged local communities to take ownership of reconciliation efforts and to abandon ongoing law-and-order issues, ensuring that the Government’s restoration interventions effectively reach the people. “We must put aside our differences and work together in collaboration so that National Government services reach Maip-Mulitaka without hindrance. Real change begins with the people.” Secretary Leo further urged the 19 elected Council Ward Members to take a proactive role in promoting peace and stability, ensuring that the Mulitaka resettlement program moves forward smoothly. He stressed the importance of the Mulitaka community supporting the Authority and collaborating with the Board Members to help resettle displaced families and rebuild key infrastructure. Enga Provincial Administrator Sandis Tsaka echoed these sentiments, calling on all groups to prioritize peace and stability in order to facilitate the rebuilding of Mulitaka. Secretary Leo further challenged the 19 Council Ward Members-elect to take a leading role in restoring peace and stability so that the Mulitaka resettlement program can progress without disruption. He highlighted the need for the people of Mulitaka to embrace the Authority and work together with its Board Members to resettle displaced families and rebuild essential infrastructure. Enga Provincial Administrator Sandis Tsaka echoed similar sentiments, calling on all factions to restore peace and stability for the sake of rebuilding Mulitaka. “Let us leave behind law-and-order problems and embrace the Government’s restoration initiative. The future of Mulitaka depends on unity.” Afterwards, the newly appointed members of the Mulitaka Resettlement Authority Management Board were officially sworn in and signed their Oath of Office. They were sworn by Senior Provincial Magistrate Aple’e Michael in pack crowd, witnessed by 19 newly elected Ward Members, Enga Provincial Administration officials, security forces (police and Defence), stakeholders and development partners. Those sworn in include: · Mr. Saki Ipata – Chairman, Mulitaka Resettlement Authority · Mr. Sandis Tsaka – Provincial Administrator, Enga Province / Delegate · Mr. Leo Philip – Secretary, DPLGA / Delegate · Mr. Lusete Mann – Director, National Disaster Centre (Ex Officio) · Mr. Jerry Maku – District Administrator, Porgera-Paiela (Ex Officio) The swearing-in represents a significant step in establishing a functional leadership structure to guide and coordinate resettlement and restoration programs for affected communities in Maip-Mulitaka.

Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Soroi Marepo Eoe, CMG, MP, has commended most provincial governments for adhering to reporting requirements and submitting their 2024 Annual Provincial Performance Reports (APPR) to the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA). Under Section 119 of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments (OLPLLG), all provincial governments, excluding the National Capital District (NCD) and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) are required to submit their APPRs for the preceding year by June 30. Minister Eoe explained that each year, the National Government allocates funding to provincial governments to support service delivery across six Minimum Priority Areas (MPAs) including: 1. Governance, 2. Education, 3. Health, 4. Works and Transport, 5. Law and Justice, and 6. Primary Production He stressed that compliance reporting on the MPAs strengthens, accountability and builds trust between provincial governments and the people. “This enhances relationships and instils confidence in service delivery.” Meanwhile, Secretary of the Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Philip Leo, confirmed that seventeen provinces have submitted their reports, with only Central, Western and Morobe provinces yet to submit. “Once these remaining reports are received, the Minister will table the consolidated outcomes in Parliament next year,” Secretary Leo stated. On 27 May 2025, Minister Eoe presented the Annual Provincial Performance Reports for the years 2018–2022 in Parliament. This was the third presentation of its kind since the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments was enacted in 1995. “Over the past decade (2014-2023), only ten provinces have consistently submitted their APPRs.” “In the last five years, only seven provinces met the June 30 deadline, while thirteen submitted late or failed to submit altogether.” Moreover, Minister Eoe also clarified the implications of the Supreme Court’s ruling which invalidated Sections 51-53 of the OLPLLG relating to the withdrawal of powers, functions and finances. “The ruling does not prevent the government from holding individual leaders and bureaucrats accountable following investigations.” “The National Government maintains the authority to conduct audits on provincial governments, district development authorities, and local level governments.”

The PNG Tribal Foundation and the Central Provincial Government have entered into discussions to restore essential education opportunities and medical services to the children in remote Dorobisoro Village in Mt. Koiari area of Central province. The village, which has been without government services and accessible only by small planes for decades, recently gained attention following the official opening of the Ghost Mountain Expedition; a trek led by American and Australian trekkers, supported by the PNG Tribal Foundation. This revealed a severe lack of resources and a profound hunger for education among the children. As a direct result of the expedition, PNG Tribal Foundation President GT Bustin met with Mrs. Marybrenda Kasokason, the Central Provincial Government’s acting Education Division Advisor, on November 12, 2025. Mrs. Kasokason confirmed the provincial government’s full support under Governor Rufina Peter's leadership. “We are definitely in support of the efforts Tribal Foundation is putting to have come onboard in partnership with us and we will make sure education opportunities are given to the children who have potential.” Meanwhile, Mr. Bustin emphasized that the Tribal Foundation's involvement is not for business, but for the people to benefit and to make a difference along the trail. The teams have agreed to visit the non-operational school along the trek route next month for an assessment of the school and local clinic. In addition, the discussions also involve the Education Department with a focus on how the government can best support the return of essential services to the villages along the trail. The Dorobisoro Village is situated along the track used by American soldiers during World War II in 1942 and has long struggled with access to basic services. With these ongoing talks, there is hope for a brighter future for the children and community of Dorobisoro.

Seven female final-year students from the University of Technology (Unitech) were among those recently certified as facilitators of a leadership program run by the PNG Tribal Foundation in Lae, Morobe province. All female final year students who are studying Mathematics and Computer Science, Geographical and Information Science, and Science and Food Technology, completed an 11-week journey focused on values and servant leadership through the Senisim PNG transformation table sessions. Ten women from the Nganalaka Catholic Community in Bitkapuk, Gazelle, also received certificates. Lead facilitator Jenitha Wale described the program as very impactful, noting it prompted deep reflection on character, attitude, and purpose among participants. “Many of us became more positive, confident, and mindful in how we interact with others,” said Ms. Wale, adding that her own experience as a first-time facilitator taught her to lead with patience, empathy, and confidence. She said the students have expressed interest in starting the tables and bring in more students and youths on teaching values and transforming minds of the future generation. “Since I am completing my final year at Unitech, I hope to facilitate another group wherever I move next hopefully at my future workplace.” About ten tables are currently underway in Port Moresby, Lae and Kokopo who are also facilitating their tables. The Foundation urges interested organizations, groups, association, families, schools to come onboard and be an agent of change for this country by joining the program.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially launched the Papua New Guinea National Tourism Policy (NTP) 2025-2045 on November 18 at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby. The launch signifies the culmination of more than a year of extensive nationwide consultations across the public and private sectors, academia, non-governmental organizations, and community representatives. Developed with the support from Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI), an Asian Development Bank (ADB) technical assistance program undertaken in partnership with the governments of Australia and New Zealand, the review of the NTP 1995 was conducted in December 2022, followed by Key Informant Interviews and regional consultations in 2023. An Issues Paper was developed to guide the policy drafting, and a National Tourism Policy Stakeholder Validation workshop was facilitated in December the same year. Following the validation, the draft NTP 2025-2045 was put through numerous rounds of technical vetting before obtaining endorsement from the National Executive Council in August 2025. The NTP 2025-2045 serves as a guide for whole-of-government efforts to achieve multi stakeholder shared tourism vision. It will be implemented through the Tourism Sector Development Plans (TSDP) convened by the Authority every five years, outlining specific agreed medium-term strategic actions for all public, private and community stakeholders. The NTP 2025- 2045 is framed around fifteen Policy Areas comprising five cross-cutting themes and ten tourism enabling functions. 1. Policy Areas by Cross-cutting Themes Environmental Sustainability Cultural Heritage Preservation and Promotion Empowerment of Resource Custodians Inclusive Economic Growth Resilience Building 2. Policy Areas by Tourism-enabling Functions Tourism Sector Governance Air Connectivity Hub-based Destination Development Niche-based Visitor Experience Development Investment in Tourism Supply Public Infrastructure and ServicesTourism Industry StandardsWorkforce DevelopmentDestination Marketing Visitor Entry and Safety TPA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Eric Mossman Uvovo, described the policy as a transformative roadmap for tourism in Papua New Guinea (PNG). “The launch of the National Tourism Policy marks a new chapter in our tourism journey as a nation.” “This policy provides the strategic direction needed to position PNG as a leading nation in tourism, a country that celebrates its rich cultural diversity, pristine natural environment, and authentic adventure experiences.” In addition, he emphasized that the policy’s implementation will focus on strengthening partnerships between government agencies, provincial authorities, tourism operators, and local communities. He also highlighted the importance of building resilient tourism infrastructure, promoting investment, and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the tourism industry. The launch event was officiated by the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Belden Norman Namah, and attended by senior government officials, industry leaders, development partners, and representatives from across the country. The PNG National Tourism Policy 2025-2045 provides a long-term vision to ensure that tourism contributes meaningfully to national development, creates employment opportunities, supports cultural preservation, and enhances the well-being of communities throughout the country. For more details, contact the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority or visit their official website: www.papuanewguinea.travel  

Mrs. Gwebi Sasobi, a 64-year-old grandmother from Gasuke village in North Fly District in Western Province, had a touching moment when her eye bandage was removed after cataract surgery. For the first time in five years, she could see her husband’s face and her daughter’s smile. Over the past five years, Gwebi gradually lost her eyesight due to cataracts. “Everything looks so new. I feel as though God has shown me His favour once again,” Mrs. Sasobi said as she was overwhelmed with joy looking at her surroundings. Gwebi was among 109 patients identified by the Callan Connect project to receive life-changing cataract surgery in Kiunga, Western Province. With funding support from the Australian Government, Callan Connect Project offers mobility, vision, and hearing impairment screening services, along with assistive device distribution, referrals and surgery for communities in Bougainville, the Kokoda Track region, and Western Province, in partnership with the respective Provincial Health Authorities. The project demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting inclusive services in Papua New Guinea. Since April 2024, the Callan Connect project has provided 32,000 visuals, hearing and mobility screening services to over 10, 700 individuals from the remote areas of Bougainville, the Kokoda Track region and Western Province. The Callan Connect project, implemented by the Callan Services National Unit, offers more than just disability diagnosis and treatment. In partnership with Inclusive Education Resource Centers (IERC), it also provides inclusive education training to teachers in the Kokoda Track region. Meanwhile, Kokoda Primary School teacher Ms. Stella Nave, was among the fourteen primary school teachers from the Track region to receive inclusive education training. An educator for the past 26 years, Stella says that it is heartbreaking to see children with learning impairments often progress to the next year without the support they need. Through the skills gained from the IERC training, Stella has been able to identify and apply practical learning strategies for two students with visual and hearing impairments. “This training has truly empowered me.” “After the workshop, I took the lead in conducting an in-service session on signing the alphabet and numbers for nine other teachers, including those from the Junior high school.”

The Department of Prime Minister has officially launched an ambitious national initiative to plant 30, 000 mangroves by the year 2030, in partnership with the Office of Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). This activity, held in Tahira, is part of the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, underpinning the importance of protecting the natural systems that sustain our people and our future. In a ceremony at the breathtaking Bootless Bay, the Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu, acknowledged the traditional landowners and custodians of the area for their invaluable stewardship and customary knowledge essential to conservation efforts. “Mangroves are crucial to the ecological and economic health of our coastal zones, they protect our shorelines, act as nursery grounds for vital marine life, and serve as significant carbon sinks in our fight against climate change.” “By planting mangroves, we are taking practical steps towards enhancing resilience for coastal communities, strengthening biodiversity, and honouring the environment that underpins our way of life.” Furthermore, Mr. Pomaleu has highlighted that this initiative is more than an environmental exercise; it is a strategic investment in the nation's resilience and a commitment to international community goals. “Our presence here is a response to the promises we've made globally regarding climate action and biodiversity.” PNG has committed to several international agreements, including reducing carbon emissions and enhancing natural carbon sinks at the Climate COP and participating in the Kunming- Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and this mangrove rehabilitation initiative is a cornerstone of achieving these commitments. The Chief Secretary has called for collective action from all sectors including local communities, development partners, NGOs, and the private sector, to realize the target of 30, 000 mangroves by 2030. “Your knowledge, commitment, and contributions will be essential for the success of this initiative.” In a profound act of commitment, participants planted over 400 mangrove seedlings at Bootless Bay. The event underscored the significance of ongoing stewardship, with a call for continued engagement in monitoring and supporting local regeneration efforts. “Let the mangroves we plant today stand tall as living symbols of our nation’s resilience, unity, and commitment to a sustainable future.” The Chief Secretary also emphasized the importance of respecting customary rights, conducting environmental assessments, and prioritizing sustainability. Mr. Pomaleu concluded the address by reinforcing that the quality of the environment left for future generations is a measure of our nationhood. The event also included a signboard erected to mark the launch of the National Mangrove Rehabilitation Initiative and also discussions with Executive Dean of School of Natural and Physical Science, Professor Simon Saulei on the proposed UPNG Scientific Research Center on Motupore Island. This was once a historical site for the drafting of PNG’s constitution to be rehabilitated into a modern scientific facility to cater for scientific research work on the Motupore Island and around the Bootless Bay coastal area.

A 17-year-old grade-11 student from Kefamo Village has been arrested by Police for stirring violence through the use of social media in Goroka.Police informants identified the suspect from Kefamo Village, allegedly posted a video encouraging the pedestrians to attack students from the University of Goroka on November 9th which resulted in major injuries and destruction of property. The suspect was taken into custody on Thursday 20th November, charged under the section 22 subsection 1 paragraph (c), (i) of the PNG Cyber Crime Act, but later released on a K5,000 Bail. Meanwhile, Acting Police Commissioner Dr. Philip Mitna declared a special task force team setup to investigate the Goroka Violence, while Internal Investigations will be carried out to examine the lack of police response at the height of the violent incident. Furthermore, Dr. Mitna emphasized that calmness has been maintained and the Constabulary will stride to restore trust and confidence firstly to communities, in their hearts and minds, and above all deal with law breakers.

Four young athletes; Kondup Samson Wailo, Mark Sondo, Nelson Samson Wailo, and Clinton Hanku will be representing Papua New Guinea in Sydney, Australia on the 5th of December at the World Kickboxing Championships.Thanks to the assistance of The National Youth Development Authority in partnership with the PNG Kick Boxing Federation, these youngsters will be participating not just in the World Championships but also pre-championship fights leading to the main event starting on November 28th. Hanku will kick off the first international fight in the 67kg. Meanwhile his fellow athletes will partake later in the 88kg (Nelson Samson Wailo), 94kg (Kondup Samson Wailo) and 96kg (Mark Sondo). The Director General of the National Youth Development Authority, Mr. Joe Itaki, expressed his gratitude to PNG Kick Boxing Federation President, Mr. Stanley Nandex, for providing second-chance opportunities to youth through kickboxing. He emphasized that involving young people, particularly those at the grassroots level, in constructive activities like sports not only exposes them to new opportunities but also offers economic benefits, helping them sustain their livelihoods. This initiative aligns with the new National Youth Engagement Strategy, and the travel support provided by the NYDA highlights the positive impact of their ongoing partnership with the PNGKBF. It aims to create valuable opportunities for youth, promoting national pride, international exposure, and community leadership through sports.