PNG Haus Bung

In response to a request from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), the Western Provincial Health Authority (WPHA) has facilitated the delivery of essential medical supplies to the remote border outpost at Weam. The supplies were handed over today by WPHA representative Noah Tolasa to a team en route to Weam, ensuring personnel stationed in the isolated area receive urgently needed medical support. The request highlights the persistent logistical challenges faced by PNGDF officers at Weam, where the station’s remoteness often delays access to basic supplies. With most provisions dispatched from Port Moresby, delivery can take considerable time, increasing the risk of shortages in critical medicines and health supplies. WPHA says it hopes the initiative will pave the way for stronger collaboration with PNGDF, aimed at improving the consistent supply of medicines and strengthening overall health support for personnel deployed in remote locations. The effort also underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing service delivery challenges in isolated regions such as Weam, where both health workers and security forces operate under difficult conditions. Weam Station, located along the Papua New Guinea–Indonesia border in the South Fly District of Western Province, is among the most remote postings for PNGDF personnel. The area is characterized by vast savanna plains, floodplains, and seasonal swamps, where heavy rainfall can quickly render the terrain impassable, further isolating those stationed there. For PNGDF personnel, the posting carries both strategic significance and daily hardship. While the station plays a critical role in monitoring cross-border movement and safeguarding national sovereignty, its isolation presents ongoing challenges. There are no direct road links connecting Weam to Daru or other major centres, leaving air transport or long river and sea journeys as the only means of access for supplies, reinforcements, and personnel movement.

The Divine Word University Communication Arts (Journalism) Department marked World Media Freedom Day on Friday, 1st May 2026, by delivering a coordinated awareness program across seven schools in Madang town, focusing on the importance of press freedom, human rights, development, and security. Guided by this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” the department extended its outreach beyond the university campus, taking the message directly into primary and secondary schools to engage young students and raise awareness of the role of media in society. The initiative was a student-led activity, spearheaded by the third-year Communication Arts (Journalism) students, with all year levels participating in the program, supported by lecturers and tutors from the department. This outreach saw students visit seven schools in Madang’s urban area including Kusbau Primary School, Tusbab Secondary School, Madang Christian Academy, Mercy Learning Academy, Madang International School, Lutheran Day School, and Holy Spirit Primary School. The students had the opportunity to deliver sessions designed to simplify the concept of media freedom and its importance, encouraging participants to understand how responsible journalism supports peaceful and informed communities. The program’s core objective was to make media literacy accessible and engaging, through team-based activities, interactive games, and student-performed skits. These activities helped to translate complex ideas about press freedom into relatable scenarios. Morning sessions began at 9:30AM at the participating schools along with activities which included team icebreakers, an introduction to the theme, and discussions on the role of media in society. Students actively engaged in the program, while schools that opted for afternoon sessions concluded at 3:30PM.

The Board of the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has endorsed an Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) Policy Framework to strengthen its capacity to respond in the event of extreme short-term liquidity pressures in the banking system.The Bank stressed that this is part of normal contingency planning undertaken by central banks and is not related to any concerns about the current health of the financial system. It noted that, at present, its assessment is that the banking system remains well-capitalized, with high levels of liquid assets held across all institutions. The ELA Policy Framework formalizes the Bank’s approach to providing temporary liquidity support to eligible commercial banks facing severe but short-term funding constraints, in line with its role under the Central Banking Act as lender of last resort. The framework is designed to support financial system stability while ensuring that assistance is provided in a prudent, controlled, and transparent manner. It will only apply to institutions that are solvent and viable, with emphasis placed on the stability of the financial system as a whole rather than the survival of any individual institution. It also outlines the eligibility criteria, governance arrangements, and operational conditions under which ELA may be provided. Access to such assistance will be subject to strict requirements, including solvency checks, acceptable collateral, and credible recovery measures from the recipient institution. The ELA Policy Framework complements the Bank’s broader financial stability and prudential oversight functions and strengthens its ability to respond to emerging liquidity pressures within the financial system. The Bank said it will continue engaging with stakeholders and develop supporting guidelines to ensure proper implementation and consistent understanding of the framework. It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a stable and resilient financial system that supports sustainable economic development in Papua New Guinea.

BSP Financial Group has made its Wantok Wallet more accessible, allowing new users to register using only their mobile phones, even without a bank account or formal identification.The move is aimed at opening the door to digital banking for more Papua New Guineans. Now with the new feature, customers can simply dial *131# on their mobile phone to create a Wantok Wallet account within minutes. The process removes the need to visit a BSP branch or agent, making it easier for people in rural and remote areas to get started. BSP Retail Bank Financial Inclusion Manager, Penelope Aisi, said the initiative is part of the bank’s wider push to expand financial access across the country. “Self-registration through *131# is a major step in making banking more accessible, especially for those in remote communities. It allows more people to safely join the digital economy using just a mobile phone,” she said. The registration process is simple. Users enter their first and last name, set up a secure PIN, and gain instant access to their wallet. New users can receive up to K500 and carry out up to 20 transactions before upgrading their account for higher limits and additional features. To unlock full services, customers can later visit a BSP branch or agent with valid identification. This allows them to increase transaction limits and access more advanced banking features. BSP is also expanding how the Wantok Wallet can be used. Customers in Port Moresby can now make payments at Waterfront Foodworld using BSP EFTPoS by generating a six-digit code on their phone. This allows for card less payments, offering more convenience for everyday shopping, with plans to roll out the service to more locations. Since its launch a year ago, more than 230,400 Wantok Wallet accounts have been created, giving many Papua New Guineans access to affordable and simple banking services for the first time. Users can carry out a wide range of transactions, including card less ATM withdrawals, deposits through BSP agents, money transfers, mobile top ups, bill payments, school fee payments, and even ticket purchases. As BSP continues to expand the platform, the focus remains clear; break down barriers, reach more people, and make banking part of everyday life for all Papua New Guineans.

City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) has taken its first major step in a new partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) by launching a joint training workshop on Wednesday, April 29 in Port Moresby.The session follows an agreement signed in March and marks the beginning of a long-term plan to strengthen healthcare services across the country. The workshop brought together CPL’s senior leaders and teams from across the business, working alongside IFC’s international advisors. Staff from finance, human resources, IT, and project teams all took part, showing that improving healthcare will involve the entire organization. This partnership focuses on three key areas: expanding primary healthcare services, improving the quality of care in clinics and pharmacies, and introducing digital systems to make services more efficient and accessible. The goal is to build a healthcare model that can grow across Papua New Guinea while still working within local conditions. The first workshop focused on setting clear goals, sharing global best practices, and shaping ideas that can work on the ground in PNG.  Discussions centred on building systems that are practical, reliable, and able to meet the country’s growing healthcare needs. CPL Chief Operating Officer Pradeep Panda said the partnership is about learning and building together. “This workshop is about working closely with IFC to build a strong model for our clinics and pharmacies, and to improve healthcare outcomes for our communities,” he said. CPL Group Founder Sir Mahesh Patel also stressed the importance of making sure plans can be delivered in real conditions. “This collaboration is focused on solutions that can work here in PNG and create real impact,” he said. The partnership comes at a time when CPL is sharpening its focus on healthcare, following the sale of its Stop and Shop supermarket business. The company is now putting more effort into strengthening its clinics, pharmacies, and overall healthcare services. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, will continue to support CPL through advisory work throughout 2026. More workshops are planned to help improve systems, guide expansion, and support digital transformation across the business. As both organizations move forward, the aim is clear. Improve patient care, strengthen local capability, and build a healthcare system that can grow with the needs of Papua New Guinea.

Kina Bank has donated K7,000 to support the Salvation Army’s Houses of Hope program during the PNG Solomon Islands Red Shield Appeal Charity Golf Day, held on Friday, April 17 at the Port Moresby Golf Club.The event brought together more than 30 teams, including two from Kina Bank, turning a day on the course into a collective effort to support vulnerable communities across the country. Funds raised from the charity drive will go directly to the Houses of Hope, safe homes that provide shelter, counselling, gender-based violence support, food assistance, and accommodation. These services operate in key locations including Ela Beach, Kainantu, and Lae, and rely on ongoing support to cover essential boarding and staffing costs. Kina Bank’s General Manager Treasury Sales – Treasury and Wholesale Banking, Simon Kepui, said the bank remains committed to initiatives that create real impact. “Kina Bank is humbled to support such initiatives, which directly benefit vulnerable communities. These funds contribute to essential services that provide safety, dignity and hope,” he said. The Salvation Army PNG and Solomon Islands also acknowledged the contribution, with Lieutenant Colonel Suzanne Stevenson highlighting the importance of the support. “The generosity shown through this charity golf event will make a real difference to the lives of people who rely on our Houses of Hope,” she said. As the day wrapped up, the purpose behind it remained clear beyond the fairways and scorecards, the focus was on standing with those in need and helping keep vital services running.

Two unexploded World War II bombs in Bougainville have been safely destroyed by the New Zealand Defence Force after a request from the Autonomous Bougainville Government.Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists were deployed to handle a 1,000lb bomb found at Aropa Airfield and a 500lb device discovered at Kieta Primary School. Due to the high risk, both bombs were destroyed on site after assessments confirmed they were too dangerous to move. Safety measures, including sandbagging and large exclusion zones, were put in place before the operation. The six-member EOD team, along with equipment and aid supplies, was transported by a Royal New Zealand Air Force C-130J Hercules and later moved to Aropa via an NH90 helicopter from No. 3 Squadron. The aircraft and crew were already in Papua New Guinea supporting relief efforts in areas impacted by Tropical Cyclone Maila. Special Operations Component Commander Grant Scobie said the team’s expertise ensured the operation was carried out safely. “Disposal of explosive remnants of war is something we do regularly, including recent operations across Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Nauru,” he said, acknowledging the cooperation of local communities and Bougainville authorities. As part of their visit, the EOD team will also conduct community awareness sessions on how to safely identify and report unexploded ordnance. The operation forms part of a broader two-week mission in Papua New Guinea, where the NZDF has been working alongside the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, Australian Defence Force, International Organization for Migration and Mission Aviation Fellowship under the coordination of the National Disaster Centre to deliver aid following Cyclone Maila. Two NH90 helicopters arrived aboard HMNZS Canterbury in Port Moresby on April 15 for joint training with the PNGDF but were redirected to support humanitarian operations after a request from the PNG Government. Additional aid supplies were later delivered by a C-130J aircraft from New Zealand, with training activities set to resume. The deployment also reflects New Zealand’s long-standing support for Bougainville’s peace and development over the past 25 years, including policing assistance through capacity-building programmes. NZDF Air Component Commander Andy Scott said No. 3 Squadron shares a deep historical connection with Bougainville, dating back to peace efforts in the 1990s. “We value our long-standing friendship with Bougainville and are pleased to return to provide support and strengthen that relationship,” he said.

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum continues to support rural communities through his Community Enrichment Support Program where recently he presented a new outboard motor to the Pandi Community in Inland Pomio LLG.The handover ceremony took place on Wednesday 29th April 2026 at Tropicanna Beachfront, where the new outboard motor was officially presented to community representatives from Pandi. Relief supplies were also loaded onto the vessel for immediate transport to Pandi, ensuring essential assistance reaches the community in a timely manner. The event was attended by Acting Deputy PA Alkan Mararang, Disaster Coordinator Donald Tokunai, members of the media team, officers from the Disaster Office, and representatives from the Pandi community. Ward Councillor Ereman, who received the outboard motor and relief supplies on behalf of the community, thanked Governor Marum for his continued support and commitment to improving the lives of people in the Pandi area. Governor Marum’s Community Enrichment Support Program continues to empower communities, groups, and associations across East New Britain Province.

Sixteen trade policy professionals from Papua New Guinea’s public and private sectors are set to travel to Australia for a four-week intensive training program under the Australia–PNG International Training Program.Delivered by the University of Adelaide Institute for International Trade, the program is supported by the Papua New Guinea–Australia Partnership and is aimed at strengthening the country’s trade policy capacity. The training focuses on building practical skills in key areas such as the legal and regulatory frameworks of international trade, tariff negotiation and implementation, and effective participation in global trade forums. It also covers trade facilitation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and explores how trade can support women’s economic empowerment. Mary Mistil Jerry, a Government Business Liaison Officer with the Business Council of Papua New Guinea, said the program has already broadened her understanding. “The preparatory training so far has been insightful and is strengthening my understanding of international trade processes and policy engagement,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the Adelaide component to gain practical exposure and build networks that will support my role in facilitating government-to-business dialogue. I hope to apply these learnings to contribute to more effective trade participation and economic growth in Papua New Guinea.” The program combines international expertise with regional best practice, offering participants hands-on learning through workshops, mentoring sessions, and site visits. Participants will also engage with government agencies and trade industry bodies in Adelaide and Brisbane. Bartholomew Na’ata, another participant from the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, said he hopes to better understand trade challenges facing the agriculture sector. “Coming from the agriculture sector, I want to gain a clearer understanding of current trade barriers and how to overcome them so our rural SMEs can access international markets,” he said. “When rural communities are able to reach global markets, the benefits flow through the economy — creating more income, driving growth, and strengthening the nation.” International trade remains a key driver of Papua New Guinea’s economic development, with Australia continuing to play a central role in supporting trade growth and economic cooperation through its long-standing partnership with the country.

Madang United Football Club is making its return to the PNG’s 2026 National Premier Soccer League after a six-year hiatus.The club, now listed among the ten teams participating this season, is both thrilling and demanding as it embarks on a new phase. Its comeback marks a new beginning for the provincial team, which has been away from the competition for several years. Head coach Amos Romo expressed his delight to see the team register and ready for participation. He also expressed his appreciation towards the province’s leaders for their support. “I want to thank Governor Ramsey Pariwa and his board members – their commitment is the reason why this team is back in the competition.” He acknowledged that being out of the competition for so long was a setback especially for newer participants but after consistent training and assistance from experienced players, he is now confident of the team’s abilities to perform. “I believe we are ready for our first challenge.”

Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with China, telling top investors the country is ready to expand trade, investment and long-term partnerships.Speaking at the PNG–China Roundtable in Guangdong Province, Marape highlighted the strong and enduring relationship between the two nations and encouraged Chinese businesses to explore opportunities across key sectors of PNG’s economy. Addressing government officials and business leaders, he described Guangdong as a model of economic success, representing the strength of China’s commercial and industrial development. Reflecting on a past meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Marape said he was once told China would “give Papua New Guinea Guangdong” a statement he now interprets as a symbolic gesture of offering the very best of China’s economic expertise and innovation. He acknowledged the longstanding contribution of Chinese communities to Papua New Guinea’s development since independence in 1975, paying tribute to leaders of Chinese heritage, including former Prime Minister Julius Chan. “As we mark 50 years of independence, we recognize and thank our Chinese partners and investors who have helped shape modern Papua New Guinea,” Marape said. Marape stressed that PNG remains open to investment across a wide range of sectors, including resources, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, tourism, manufacturing and retail. He said the government is rolling out reforms to improve the business environment, particularly through the Investment Promotion Authority. These include streamlined processes such as one-stop investor services, faster registrations, 24/7 online systems, and improved regulatory transparency. “We want investors to have confidence and certainty when choosing Papua New Guinea,” he said. The Prime Minister noted that PNG’s economy is stabilizing following the global impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the budget deficit significantly reduced and a balanced budget in sight. “We are managing the economy responsibly to ensure a stable environment for investors,” he said, adding that PNG continues to offer competitive returns compared to other emerging markets. Marape assured investors that PNG’s democratic system and independent judiciary provide strong protection for lawful investments. “We are governed by the rule of law and all legitimate contracts will be upheld,” he said, citing long-term projects like the Ramu Nickel Mine as examples of investment continuity. The Prime Minister reaffirmed PNG’s support for the One China Policy, first adopted under founding Prime Minister Michael Somare. “Our position remains unchanged, we respect China’s sovereignty just as China respects ours,” he said, thanking Beijing for its continued support, including land allocated for PNG’s embassy. Marape described Guangdong as a vital link for PNG’s engagement with China, while positioning Papua New Guinea as a gateway for Chinese access to Pacific markets. “Guangdong is our bridge into China, and PNG will be China’s bridge into the Pacific,” he said. He encouraged investors to work through PNG’s diplomatic and trade offices to accelerate genuine investment opportunities. The Prime Minister also announced incentives for investors willing to establish value-adding industries in PNG, including tax holidays of up to 10 to 15 years for sectors such as timber, fisheries, mineral processing and petroleum-based manufacturing. “We want to move beyond exporting raw materials and instead build industries that create jobs and add value locally,” he said. He added that PNG’s access to major markets including APEC, ASEAN-linked economies, Pacific nations and the European Union provide a strong platform for export growth. Closing his address, Marape called for stronger global cooperation and partnership. “In a divided world, we need more collaboration, understanding, and leadership to achieve shared prosperity,” he said. “Let Guangdong remain a bridge into Papua New Guinea, and Papua New Guinea a bridge into China and the Pacific.”

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) will install two new X-ray screening machines at Mt Hagen and Goroka Airports by the end of May 2026 to improve airport security and safety compliance.Valued at K3.5 million, the machines were purchased in late 2025 and arrived at Lae Port on 26th April 2026. Installation is expected to begin soon. Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Mt Hagen Airport Asphalt Overlay Project, Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi expressed delight in seeing the new equipment “I am pleased to see these important machines finally arrive in the country. They will significantly improve security screening at both airports and ensure compliance with civil aviation rules and regulations.” The machines will replace aging systems currently in use at both airports. NAC said it is working closely with contractors to complete customs clearance, transportation, and installation on schedule. The National Airports Corporation says the upgrade is part of its ongoing commitment to improving safety and security standards across Papua New Guinea’s airports.