The Secretary of Foreign Affairs Mr. Elias Wohengu, is strongly advising Papua New Guinea citizens to exercise cation and avoid travelling to the Middle East due to outbreak of war in the Gulf and Arab regions.He said many governments are unable to carry out any evacuation exercise at this point as all land borders and air spaces are closed and evacuation itself would be a security risk under the present war scenario. “Given the situation, governments of the region have issued humanitarian instruction to service providers to accommodate third country nationals who are stranded, including PNG citizens,” stated Secretary Wohengu. Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko announced the temporary closure of the PNG Embassy in Jerusalem and all staff called to adhere to host country instructions to hunker down in bomb shelter following the State of Israel being at war with Iran and its proxies. “As soon as we are able to extradite or evacuate our diplomatic personnel when border and airspace open, PNG will relocate the operations of its embassy to the capital, Port Moresby,” said the Minister. In the meantime, relatives and friends of PNG citizens who are stranded in the Middle East are encouraged to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs through its State Protocol and Consular Division on telephone: 301 4115 or email: consular.affairs@dfa.gov.pg.

The Rookes Marine Preseason competition successfully concluded over the weekend at Laiwaden Oval, marking the end of weeks of competitive football action in Madang.The preseason tournament, which began on 14th February, featured a total of 29 men’s teams and nine women’s teams, highlighting the growing interest in football across Madang province.Among the participating sides were Panu 1 and Panu 2, teams made up of selected players who took part in the Governor’s LLG Cup hosted across the six districts of Madang Province. Following a three-day Madang FC trial at Laiwaden Oval, the management divided the selected players into two teams — Panu 1 and Panu 2 — to allow further screening and selection for the final Madang FC squad.Both teams were eliminated during the knockout stage of the competition.The men’s grand final saw Tusbab Blue Kumuls face Centers in a tightly contested match that ended in a penalty shootout. Tusbab Blue Kumuls secured victory with a 4–3 win on penalties after an intense battle on the field.In the women’s division, Nabasa defeated Tusbab Blue Kumuls 2–0 to claim first place in the Rookes Marine Preseason tournament.Madang Soccer Association President Siegfried Beschel thanked partners and sponsors for their continued support in developing football in the province and ensuring the success of the preseason competition.“Thank you to all partners and sponsors. Your support has helped us run a successful competition,” he said.He also extended his appreciation to club management, teams, referees, and members of the public for their contribution and support throughout the tournament.Captain of Tusbab Blue Kumuls, Ritchie Apisa, while receiving the first prize, thanked the Madang Soccer Association and Rookes Marine for their commitment to supporting football development in Madang.The Rookes Marine proper season is expected to commence later this month.

Redscar High School (RHS) in Porebada village in the Hiri Koiari District of Central province, has launched its 2026–2028 School Learning Improvement Plan (SLIP), outlining a three-year strategy aimed at strengthening academic performance and upgrading key infrastructure.The plan is a renewed commitment to improving learning outcomes for a school that has served communities along the Hiri West coastline for more than 40 years since its establishment in the 1970s.School Principal Mr. Paul Mitna said the SLIP is designed to drive meaningful change rather than serve as a routine policy document.  “This is more than just a document; it is a road map – our strategy to transform student learning in our school environment from 2026 to 2028.” The three-year plan focuses on seven priority areas, including staff professional development and major infrastructure upgrades to accommodate a growing student population. Implementation of the SLIP is expected to cost K4.4 million. Representing Central Governor Rufina Peter at the launch was the Acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Bala Kapa, who reaffirmed that education is a central pillar of the provincial government’s development agenda. Mr. Kapa said Governor Peter has aligned her focus on Integral Human Development with the National Government’s Vision 2050, stressing that progress depends on collective support.  “Our good Governor, in her wisdom, has linked her priority of Integral Human Development to the National Government’s Vision 2050.” “But that vision cannot be realized without proper support, from the national and provincial governments, from teachers, from parents, and from the churches who continue to work hard in changing mindsets.” On behalf of Governor Peter, Kapa announced a K3 million commitment towards the implementation of Redscar High School’s SLIP program. “The funding has already been allocated in the 2026 budget, and the budget has been presented to the Minister for Treasury and once endorsed, drawdown will be made for the schools infrastructure development needs in line with their Three (3) Years SLIP program.” Acting Provincial Education Advisor Marybrenda Kasokason challenged the school community to take full ownership of the plan, emphasizing accountability and shared responsibility. “Once we launch this SLIP today, it becomes ours — and ours for good for the next three years.”The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation of the three-year development plan to Mr. Kapa. The document was handed over by the school’s Head Boy and Head Girl in the presence of Mrs. Kasokason, symbolizing student leadership and a shared commitment to the future of Redscar High School

Madang Province has successfully completed its Under-16 trials and is now preparing to participate in the upcoming OFC Under-16 tournament in April.The province concluded its trials and final matches over the weekend at Laiwaden Oval, selecting players who will advance to the next stage of preparations for the regional competition.Susan Watpore, PNGFA Women’s Development Officer and U16 Women’s National Team Coach, confirmed that 10 players from Madang have been selected to attend further trials in Lae to finalize the Under-16 squad.“So far, 10 players have been selected to go for further trials in Lae,” she said.Watpore explained that Lae had already completed its trials, selecting 12 players, while Port Moresby and Madang wrapped up theirs yesterday.She said the Under-16 girls' team will compete in the OFC National Tournament in Port Moresby in April, which Papua New Guinea will host. The tournament is significant, as it will determine qualification for the second leg of the competition to be held in the Solomon Islands in September.Watpore expressed satisfaction with the strong turnout of players, parents, and teachers who showed their support during the trials. She encouraged parents and teachers to continue supporting their children’s involvement in sports.She also urged parents to ensure their children’s personal documents, including NID cards and passports, are prepared in advance.Watpore further emphasized that players who do not make the final selection should remain committed to training and development. She highlighted the need for Madang to establish a Centre of Excellence to nurture young talent and strengthen future selections.“This is about building the future of women’s football in the province,” she said.

A K1 million funding from the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) specifically designated for landowners’ mobilization and conducting of the socio-economic survey in the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone project in Madang province has not been used and is still kept at the Madang Provincial Treasury Office.The Provincial Fisheries and Marine Resource Division of the Madang Administration has come out to clear the air and brushed aside allegations on the misappropriation of the K1 million NFA funds since it went viral on social media last weekend.Assistant Director of the Provincial Fisheries and Marine Resources Division in the Madang Provincial Administration, Greg Serar has formally come out to set the record correctly following false and misleading information being circulated on social media.Mr. Serar clarified that the expenditure report which was published on social media is the recurrent expenditure of the Division of Fisheries and Marine Resources and has the consent of the Provincial Administrator as Section 32 Officer, since the division is administering the PMIZ Project and it is not NFA funds.“As the Assistant Director of the Fisheries and Marine Division I have the visibility of all the recurrent expenditure” he explained.Mr. Serar has set the record straight in stating that a K1 million was allocated by the Madang Provincial Government as a recurrent for the general administration of the PMIZ Project. These funds are correctly managed under 28320001 92227 account with the Madang Provincial Treasury.He further stated that the NFA Funding of K1 million specifically designed for Landowners Mobilization and Conducting Socio-economic survey in the five PMIZ impact communities is still there at Treasury and managed under 28320001 03 227.“As of this date the NFA funds have not been misused or misappropriated,” Mr. Serar stated.He also clarified that the NFA representative Mr. Presley Kokweiye, who is a member of the Task Force Team for the PMIZ Project Steering Committee is fully aware that funds are secure and yet to be spent.He further stated that official verification by NFA and the PMIZ Project Steering Committee on NFA’s K1 million funding has guaranteed that the fund is safe and had not been used. Furthermore, the Task Force Team has engaged an independent auditor to monitor and manage the NFA funds and other grants for the PMIZ project.Mr. Serar clarified that the K1 million counterpart funding from the Madang Provincial Government for the PMIZ awareness and socio-economic survey follows the launching by the Provincial Member and Governor for Madang, Hon. Ramsey Pariwa on December 7, 2025, to ensure legitimate landowners participate in the PMIZ project.Mr. Serar stated strongly that the spreading of false allegation is a serious matter that disrupts a vital national project. It is recommended that an official investigation be launched to identify the individuals responsible for creating and sharing this misinformation.He further stated that legal action would be taken pursuant to the Cybercrime Code Act 2016 on individuals spreading false and defamatory information online. These alleged can face penalties including fines of up to K25,000 or imprisonment for up to 15 years.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) will host its 4th Annual Charity Golf Challenge on Friday, 6th March at the Lae Golf Club, reaffirming its commitment to supporting cancer treatment services in Papua New Guinea.Held in recognition of World Cancer Day, observed in February, the event aims to raise funds for the purchase of essential chemotherapy drugs for the National Cancer Services Unit at ANGAU Memorial Hospital in Lae city. Acting Managing Director, Dr Luke Liria, said the annual tournament continues to provide meaningful support to patients and families affected by cancer. “Cancer touches every family in some way. Many of us have witnessed loved ones and friends face this illness — some overcoming it, while others have sadly lost their battle,” Dr Liria said. “This charity challenge provides an avenue for organizations that may not be able to directly assist the Cancer Unit to contribute to a cause that impacts so many lives.” Chairman of the Morobe Provincial Health Authority, Mr. David Wissink, acknowledged KPHL’s ongoing partnership and the tangible difference it makes to patient care. “Chemotherapy treatment is expensive, and the Cancer Unit relies heavily on external funding to secure essential medications,” Mr. Wissink said. “KPHL’s continued support ensures a steady and reliable supply of chemotherapy drugs, enabling us to deliver urgently needed treatment to our patients.” Mr. Wissink also expressed appreciation to participating teams and sponsors who return each year to support the initiative. In addition to the annual golf challenge, KPHL recently funded the installation of radiation therapy equipment at the National Cancer Services Unit at ANGAU Memorial Hospital, including a brachytherapy unit commissioned in 2024, further strengthening cancer treatment capacity in the country.

Community Rugby League (CRL) officers from the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) have completed an intensive coaching education workshop delivered in partnership with the National Rugby League (NRL), reinforcing efforts to build stronger grassroots rugby league programs across the country.The session was conducted at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city and facilitated by NRL Community Lead – Education Development Manager, Ross Antoniolli. Unlike traditional coaching clinics that focus primarily on drills and techniques, this workshop centred on improving facilitation skills and coaching approach. Participants examined practical strategies for delivering structured, inclusive, and engaging sessions that can be adapted to both school and community environments. Mr. Antoniolli said the initiative is aimed at ensuring development officers are equipped not only to run programs, but also to mentor and guide volunteer coaches. “Strong community rugby league programs depend on confident and capable coaches,” he said. “By strengthening how coaching courses are delivered, we create better learning environments for volunteers and ultimately better experiences for players.” He encouraged the CRL team to reflect on their current methods and explore innovative ways to incorporate the new strategies into upcoming clinics and outreach activities. PNGRFL CRL National Game Development Manager Mr. Nigel Hukula said the workshop provided valuable insights into improving consistency and quality across all development programs. “Our officers were reminded that effective sessions require planning, adaptability, and a clear focus on participant needs,” Mr. Hukula said. “Whether working with young students or community groups, sessions must remain safe, enjoyable, and purposeful.” He added that CRL officers continue to work closely with registered associate schools, delivering fundamental rugby league skills programs and pathways for students who wish to further their participation. This season, PNGRFL is broadening its reach to include schools not currently involved in the formal schools’ league competition but interested in structured development programs. Schools across the Northern, Southern, New Guinea Islands, and Highlands regions are encouraged to connect with their regional Game Development Officers for further information.

The Government of Papua New Guinea is actively tracking developments surrounding tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States, with close attention to how the situation may affect international fuel markets and the domestic cost of living.Prime Minister James Marape said, Papua New Guinea remains vigilant as volatility in global oil supply chains has the potential to trigger imported inflation, particularly in fuel and essential goods sourced from overseas. “We are monitoring global developments carefully and responsibly,” the Prime Minister said. “Should fuel prices exceed sustainable levels, or if imported food costs begin placing pressure on families and businesses, the Government stands ready to step in.” He noted that a significant portion of the world’s oil supply moves through critical international shipping routes, and any disruption could quickly drive prices upward across global markets. “Fuel underpins every sector of our economy — from transportation to electricity generation and food distribution,” he said. “If prices rise to extreme levels, we are prepared to introduce targeted subsidies to shield households, businesses and essential services from destabilizing impacts.” Prime Minister Marape emphasised that Papua New Guinea has previously demonstrated its ability to respond decisively to external economic shocks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government implemented temporary support measures to stabilise supply chains and maintain food distribution between key centres, including Lae and Port Moresby. He confirmed that similar targeted interventions — particularly on fuel — would be considered if verified inflationary pressures threaten affordability or broader economic stability. The Prime Minister also reiterated that subsidies on 13 essential household items remain in place to help cushion families from rising living costs. At the same time, he underscored that long-term resilience depends on strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on imports. “In uncertain global conditions, buying local is one of the strongest actions we can take as a country,” he said. “Papua New Guinea has the capacity to feed itself.” He encouraged greater consumption of locally grown staples such as sweet potato, taro, yam, banana, cassava and sago, highlighting their affordability and nutritional value. He also pointed to emerging local rice production in areas including Rigo as a positive step toward reducing import dependence. The Prime Minister added that ongoing improvements in road connectivity between agricultural regions and urban markets are enhancing food distribution and reinforcing national food security. “Our land is fertile and productive,” he said. “Supporting our farmers keeps money within our economy, strengthens rural communities, and protects our nation during global uncertainty.” Prime Minister Marape assured citizens that should global tensions intensify and economic pressures mount, the Government will implement additional measures to safeguard stability and help the country navigate what may become a challenging international economic environment.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has officially reopened Wewak (Boram) Airport following a comprehensive safety and security risk assessment.The temporary closure, which was imposed to address identified risks, was lifted at 4:00 PM on Sunday, 1st March 2026. NAC in a statement confirmed that the decision to resume operations was made after management was satisfied that all safety and security risks had been appropriately addressed. The airport has met all necessary aviation security and aerodrome certification requirements. Recent incidents that led to the airport’s closure have prompted investigations by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). The law enforcement agencies have apprehended suspects in connection with the unlawful activities. Police and PNGDF personnel will continue to patrol the airport perimeter and surrounding areas to ensure the safety of the airport and its operations. The Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), issued on Saturday, 28th February 2026, which had announced the temporary closure, was officially rescinded following the completion of security measures. "Airlines have been informed of the reopening and will conduct their own operational and safety assessments before resuming flights into Wewak," the NAC stated. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines directly for confirmation of flight schedules. NAC has expressed its gratitude to the police, PNGDF, local authorities, airline partners, and the Wewak community for their cooperation and support during the closure.

The situation in Papua New Guinea regarding the transmission of HIV to infants is a profound public health emergency that demands immediate, unified action.Archbishop His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, stated that with seven babies born with HIV every day, the nation faces a direct threat to the core pillars of Vision 2050. Addressing this crisis requires a shift from silence to proactive community engagement and clinical intervention. The statistics surrounding Parent-To-Child Transmission (PTCT) are sobering. “Without treatment, 30 – 45% of exposed infants become infected, and most die within two years.” This loss of life is entirely preventable in the modern medical era. When pregnant mothers have access to proper care, the outlook changes drastically, as effective, early intervention using antiretroviral therapy (ART) can reduce the risk to less than 1%. This disparity highlights that the crisis is not a lack of medicine, but a lack of access, awareness, and the persistence of social stigma. He stated that several systemic and social factors are currently driving the increase in infant infections. Meanwhile, the National Department of Health (NDoH) and its partners have identified that low HIV testing rates at Antenatal clinics in all districts and limited access to antiretroviral therapy are primary hurdles. The high-risk behaviours of the adult population, including multiple sexual partners and unsafe sexual practices, continue to fuel the spread. “To counteract this, there must be a national movement to ensure that pregnant mothers should always consider early compulsory HIV counselling and testing through available district clinics.” Papua New Guinea has a history of successfully managing these risks through collaborative efforts. Between 2003 and 2013, church-led clinical care programs demonstrated that an HIV-free generation is possible. Cardinal Ribat said that Mingende Rural Hospital in Chimbu Province was a success story of Preventing the Parent-To-Child transmission through dedicated community outreach and clinical excellence. “These historical successes provide a roadmap for the current crisis, emphasizing that when churches and government facilities are well-funded and maintained, they become the strongest line of defense for the unborn.” Furthermore, Cardinal Ribat stressed that the government must prioritize the allocation of resources to organizations with the deepest community reach. “A critical step involves a commitment to PNG Christian Leaders Alliance on HIV & AIDS Secretariat to ensure churches HIV services and facilities are improved.” “By investing in these networks, the country can foster consistent community awareness and education on STI’s and HIV that penetrates even the most remote districts.” “We must collectively ensure that fear and shame do not prevent citizens from accessing life-saving treatments that are both free and available.”

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has announced temporary runway restrictions at Kiunga Airport as major upgrade works progress under the Method of Working Plan (MOWP) Stages 5 to 8.NAC said the airside and landside components of the project are about 35 percent complete, with construction activities set to intensify starting today, 1 March 2026. Stages 1 to 4 are expected to be completed soon. As of today, the airport’s 1, 200-metre runway will be reduced to 490 metres during the next phases of works, which are scheduled to run until June 2026. As a result, Regular Public Transport (RPT) services, including Dash 8-100 series aircraft operations, will be suspended for at least four months. Despite the temporary shortening, the aerodrome will remain open to smaller general aviation aircraft. NAC acknowledged the disruption the restrictions will cause to passenger travel and cargo movement in and out of Kiunga but said the upgrade is essential to maintain aviation safety standards and ensure the airport’s long-term reliability. The corporation advised the travelling public, airline operators and the business community to note the key dates and make alternative arrangements where necessary. Work schedules remain subject to weather conditions, and any changes will be communicated. NAC said the runway upgrade represents a critical investment in strengthening aviation infrastructure in Western Province and supporting regional connectivity into the future. The corporation apologized for the inconvenience and thanked stakeholders and the people of Western Province and Papua New Guinea for their patience and cooperation.

The official opening of a new classroom at Ramandu Elementary School in Inland Baining, East New Britain, has marked a historic turning point for a community that has spent over 16 years teaching its children under makeshift shelters.The event, held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Ramandu Zone 1, brought together the Ragaga community alongside representatives from the Rabaul and Gazelle districts to celebrate a new era of safe and conducive learning. Ragaga Ward Member Samson George, highlighted the weight of the achievement, noting that students have long been exposed to harsh weather and illness due to the lack of proper facilities. “For 16 years, our students were taught under temporary shelters exposed to wind and rain. Many children became sick from sitting in dust.” “Today, we finally have a proper classroom that will provide a better teaching and learning environment.” With the infrastructure now in place, Mr. George emphasized that the responsibility shifts to the adults in the community to ensure the building’s purpose is fulfilled. He issued a clear call to action for educators to maintain strict attendance from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. He also issued a stern warning that the Ward Development Committee would monitor families to ensure children are in class rather than working in gardens or cocoa blocks. “Under the Lukautim Pikinini Act, we will ensure our children go to school. Education must come first.” The project was a collaborative effort, driven by the Ramandu Youth Association and supported by K20, 000 in materials from the Rabaul District Administration. This partnership is unique as the school sits within the Rabaul-owned Ramandu Plantation but serves the Gazelle District. Meanwhile, Rabaul Deputy District Administrator for Operations, Petrus Maninga, reinforced the district’s commitment to early childhood development, noting, “Investing in early learning is investing in the future of our communities.” “This partnership shows what can be achieved when districts and communities work together.” Inland Baining Local Level Government (LLG) President Misiel Waliria, also praised the cross-district cooperation and the hands-on involvement of the locals. “We thank Rabaul District for coming right out to Gazelle and supporting this project with K20, 000.” “This support has helped deliver important school infrastructure for our children,” he remarked. The day also served as the launch for the Ramandu Youth Association’s three-year Development Plan. By identifying the classroom as a flagship project, the association intends to use community development as a tool to engage young people positively and steer them away from social challenges.