Kina Bank has reinforced its commitment to staff development, celebrating the graduation of three employees, an initiative aimed at building essential skills for the evolving banking industry. The staff graduated on March 6 from Divine Word University, marking a key milestone in their professional and academic journeys. Chief of Staff Mackhenly Kaiok, completed a Master of Business Administration, while Senior Manager for ATM and Cards Operations Siloe Romiel, and Senior Funds Administrator Bentis Ari, both earned Bachelor of Management degrees. Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Kina Bank Ivan Vidovich, noted that these achievements reflect the bank’s primary focus on developing its people to meet modern industry demands. Mr. Kaiok, who also received the Academic Excellence Award for the highest GPA in his cohort, highlighted the challenges behind his success. “It was challenging juggling work, school, and family priorities. I am where I am today because of the support I received from my family, Kina Bank, and God,” he said. The bank’s role in fostering this growth was further acknowledged by Mr. Romiel, who credited the institution for its flexibility during residential classes. “I am very grateful to Kina Bank for supporting me with tuition fees. My team at work and my family gave me the support I needed to focus on my studies,” he said. Kina Bank continues to invest in employee growth through training and leadership programs, including initiatives aimed at strengthening skills, leadership, and customer service.

Morobe Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent Samson Siguyaru, has called on all residents to celebrate Easter peacefully and responsibly, urging communities to avoid violence and anti-social behaviour during the festive period. In a media statement released on Thursday, April 2, PPC Siguyaru stressed the importance of maintaining law and order, especially during celebrations often linked to alcohol-related incidents. “We ask everyone to celebrate Easter in a respectful and peaceful way,” he said. “Avoid alcohol-related violence and any behaviour that may disturb the peace in our communities.” He also reminded the public to take care on the roads, respect one another, and settle disputes calmly without turning to conflict. Police operations will be active across Morobe Province throughout the Easter period, with officers conducting patrols to ensure public safety. “Police presence will be maintained across the province,” Siguyaru said. “Our officers will continue to carry out their duties diligently, but public cooperation remains essential in maintaining peace and order.” He added that safety is a shared responsibility, calling on communities to work together with police to create a secure environment for everyone. Siguyaru also praised police officers and the Northern Mobile Group for their efforts during the recent visit of Chief Justice Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika, who officiated the opening of the Finschhafen National Court House. He commended the people of Finschhafen for their strong support, which helped ensure the event was conducted peacefully. “We expect the same level of cooperation from all communities during this Easter period.” Siguyaru reminded residents that Easter is an important time in the Christian calendar, symbolizing sacrifice, renewal, hope, and unity. He encouraged families and communities to use the occasion to come together in peace and reflection. “Let this Easter be marked by peace, respect, and unity throughout the province,” he said while extending his Easter greetings to all residents and police officers in Morobe.

The National Weather Service has expanded tropical cyclone warning areas to include Bougainville. Tropical Low 37U, currently located 200 km Northeast of Rossel Island, has intensified and slowed its movement to 8 km/h. Because slow-moving storms remain over specific areas for longer durations, the risk of severe damage is significantly increased. All coastal communities are now exposed to imminent strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding, with gale-force winds expected to arrive within the next 18–24 hours. By order of the Secretary for Community Government and District Affairs, all Managers are directed to execute immediate early actions to safeguard lives and property: • Public Notification: Ensure this advisory reaches all wards, particularly remote inland and coastal settlements. • Small Craft Ban: Strictly enforce the suspension of all small craft vessel operations and open sea travel. • Inland Monitoring: Activate high-alert protocols for mainland and inland communities vulnerable to landslides and flash flooding. • Reporting Channels: Establish a 24-hour monitoring presence at District offices. Ensure all local disaster events are reported immediately to the Directorate of Disaster and Emergency Services. The general public is urged to take the following precautionary measures: • Secure Property: Reinforce dwellings and secure loose items that may become projectiles in high winds. • Stay Informed: Monitor updates provided by the Directorate and National Weather Service. • Report Incidents: Contact your nearest Community Government or District office to report disaster situations. Emergency Contact Information: • To report emergencies or disaster events, contact the Director – Julius Nohu, Disaster & Emergency: Phone: 7075 1596, 7251 3068 or 7455 1001 • Location: Visit your nearest District or Community Government station

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PNG Power Limited (PPL), Mr. Paul Bayly, has provided an update on the ongoing restoration of the Easipay system and confirmed that PNG Power is transitioning access of the system, and data under local control, by using a PNG data centre. Mr. Bayly said that while the Easipay outage caused disruption across the country, substantial progress has been made in restoring services, with most systems now back online and remaining connections expected to be fully restored in the coming days. “At this point in time the system is stable, and our technical teams continue to monitor performance closely, with further background remediation works ongoing,” Mr Bayly confirmed. “The bulk of the system is operational, and we expect full restoration shortly.” He stated that the disruption has highlighted the risks associated with offshore control of critical national infrastructure and confirmed that PNG Power has taken decisive action to transition Easipay to a PNG-based data centre. “This transition marks an important step in strengthening the control, reliability, and accountability of one of our most critical customer service systems.” “Kumul Consolidated Holdings has already invested K1.4 million for the installation of the PPL Oracle ERP System and Recovery Program.” He added that hosting the system in the country is essential to ensure that sensitive customer data is retained within the country and managed under appropriate national safeguards. “This is a matter of national importance. Critical systems of this nature must be managed within Papua New Guinea to ensure security, responsiveness, and long-term sustainability.” “There will always be sensitivities of a sovereignty nature when engaging with overseas vendors and the personal data of PNG customers.” This is an issue that must we worked through carefully in consideration of the requirements of the State and the responsibilities of the vendors. He further noted that the transition will deliver broader benefits for PNG Power and the country. “This move is expected to improve system stability and responsiveness, while also delivering cost efficiencies by retaining more value within Papua New Guinea to support ongoing electricity services and infrastructure.” Moreover, he acknowledged the inconvenience caused to customers and thanked the public for their patience. “We recognise the disruption this has caused to our customers and sincerely thank the public for their understanding.” “This is necessary to ensure a more stable, secure and reliable Easipay service going forward.” He confirmed that PNG Power is taking control of the Easipay system and will continue strengthening its infrastructure to prevent similar issues in the future. Since Tuesday, PNG Power’s Information Systems teams have successfully restored operations across most of the network, with remaining sites being progressively brought back online. To further improve customer service and transparency, PNG Power has also introduced a new customer portal, allowing customers to register claims and track the progress of their cases. The portal can be accessed online at: https://relief.pngpower.com.pg relief.pngpower.com.pg

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has completed a three-day integrated community engagement program with Panguna landowner communities, that was aimed at strengthening dialogue, addressing concerns, and ensuring communities are fully informed and involved in the Panguna mine redevelopment process.The awareness program provided a platform for the ABG leadership, led by President and Minister for Mining, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, to engage directly with landowners, clarify misconceptions surrounding the redevelopment of Panguna, and provide updates on key issues including partnering arrangements, access, and shareholding. Throughout the engagement, President Toroama reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that landowners are active participants in the redevelopment process and that their voices remain central to decision-making. He also reiterated a strong call for all Panguna landowners to stand united in the redevelopment of the mine and to ensure that the divisions and mistakes of the past are not repeated. “The government has not isolated itself, and it has not made its own decisions, but it was through the various consultations that we have had that has taken us to where we are today,” he said. President Toroama also assured communities that discussions on shareholding will be conducted openly to ensure landowners become partners in the development project, emphasizing that these discussions will take place following the completion of the required pre-feasibility and feasibility studies under the exploration stage. President Toroama further highlighted that the Government’s progress is guided by the Tununu Resolutions jointly agreed to in 2022 by the five major Panguna clans, which provided the mandate for the reopening of the mine. Based on these resolutions, he stated that the Government has fulfilled its responsibilities in progressing the redevelopment process to its current stage. Over the three days, communities were given the opportunity to raise concerns relating to land access, equity participation, and overall project benefits, with ABG President and senior officials providing responses and clarifications. Vice President and Minister for Independence and Justice, Hon. Ezekiel Masatt, also addressed communities during the engagement, emphasizing the importance of unity and linking Panguna to Bougainville’s broader political independence. Vice President Masatt further stressed the importance of economic strength in supporting Bougainville’s independence and called on communities to work together with the Government. “I challenge you all here today, this is an integrated government activity where President, ABG Ministers, Chief Secretary and Heads of Departments are present, it is an indication of this government’s commitment of making sure that we provide the right condition for that economic challenge that we face,” he said. In response, landowner representatives collectively expressed their support for the Government’s direction and acknowledged the importance of the engagement process, committing to work with the ABG in progressing the redevelopment of Panguna. The program commenced in Ioro and continued in Panguna, with the final day of engagement focusing on landowner groups in the Arawa and Rorovana areas. The ABG has reaffirmed that such integrated engagement will continue as part of its commitment to inclusive development, ensuring that all stakeholders remain informed, consulted, and actively involved in shaping the future of Panguna and Bougainville.

Cricket Papua New Guinea (CPNG) has officially launched a newly developed Cricket App, that will further contribute to development of junior cricket across the country.The app was launched on Wednesday 1 April at Amini Park. This app has been developed in Papua New Guinea and is the brainchild of Cricket PNG’s Cricket Data System Development Coordinator, Helai Willie, in collaboration with Melbourne-based developer Mr. Brendan Liddicoat. It is designed to strengthen grassroots cricket; the platform introduces a modern approach to scoring and player development. The app enables coaches and officials to use tablets during matches to score games, capture detailed player data, and identify individual skill sets—key components in nurturing young talent. Cricket PNG’s Special Projects & Development Officer, Mr. Anthony Healy, described the innovation as a major step forward for the sport in PNG. “We are promoting our cricket app that we’ve developed here in Papua New Guinea with assistance from Brendan Liddicoat in Australia." "This cricket app is a game changer because it allows us to score junior matches digitally, collate important data on each player, and better understand their individual skills,” said Healy. He added that the system will play a vital role in supporting inclusive junior formats such as CriiO Cricket, which focuses on participation, confidence-building, and safety through the use of modified equipment like softballs. “It is an exciting step for junior cricket." "The app supports a format that encourages inclusion and helps young players build confidence, while ensuring safety remains our top priority,” he said. The initiative falls under Cricket PNG’s Cricket Data System Development program and reinforces the organization's commitment to innovation and long-term player development nationwide. Cricket PNG believes the app is unique to PNG and will significantly enhance coaching, talent identification, and overall cricket management at the junior level.

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) on Thursday, 02nd of April 2025 marked a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s inland aquaculture with the official launch of the Sirinumu Commercial Tilapia Harvest Program. The initiative highlights the successful transition of smallholder fish farmers into semi-commercial and commercial production, demonstrating the growing potential of inland fisheries to contribute to food security, income generation, and rural economic development. Speaking at the launch, NFA Managing Director Justin Ilakini said the program represents a major step forward in strengthening aquaculture value chains in the country. “Today’s launch is a clear demonstration of how targeted support and partnerships can empower our local farmers to move from subsistence to commercial production,” Mr Ilakini said. “The Sirinumu initiative shows that inland aquaculture has the potential to significantly contribute to food security while creating sustainable livelihoods for our communities.” Mr Ilakini emphasized that NFA remains committed to supporting farmers through technical assistance, capacity building, and market access. “Our focus is to ensure that farmers are equipped not only to produce, but to participate effectively in the market system. This includes improving farming practices, strengthening supply chains, and creating reliable market opportunities,” he said. The launch event included farm visits, a symbolic harvest demonstration, and engagement with local farmers who have been directly involved in the program. Mr Ilakini further acknowledged the role of local communities and stakeholders in driving the success of the project. “This achievement belongs to the farmers and communities of Sirinumu. Their commitment and willingness to adopt improved practices is what makes programs like this successful,” he added. The Sirinumu Commercial Tilapia Harvest Program forms part of NFA’s broader strategy to develop inland aquaculture as a key pillar of Papua New Guinea’s fisheries sector.

Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) disaster preparedness and response capacity is set to be strengthened following the launch of a new USD 4.5 million joint programme funded by the Australian Government through the United Nations (UN) Country Fund II and implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The launch followed the first Programme Steering Committee meeting for the initiative: Strengthening Humanitarian Preparedness and Response to Disaster-Induced Displacement in Papua New Guinea.In 2024, more than 214,000 people were affected by disasters and nearly 31,000 were displaced, highlighting the urgent need for stronger systems to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to crises. The programme aims to strengthen disaster management through a data‑driven, systems‑focused and community‑resilience‑oriented, and health‑sensitive approach. It will improve access to displacement data, bolster preparedness and response capabilities, and enhance coordination among the National Disaster Centre, the National Department of Health and provincial authorities. UN Resident Coordinator Richard Howard underscored the programme’s importance: “The integration of health and emergency management is crucial in a country as hazard-prone and geographically challenging as Papua New Guinea." "This Joint Programme represents exactly the kind of coordinated, multisectoral approach that saves lives.” Deputy Secretary for Health, Ken Wai, highlighted the central role of health in emergencies: “Health is cross-cutting across all sectors, especially during disasters. It is very important that programmes like this strengthen the health system as part of national preparedness and response.” Representing the Australian Government, Claudia Cooney reaffirmed Australia’s commitment: “The Australian Government is very pleased to support this initiative and to continue working together to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s resilience.” Speaking on behalf of the Secretary for the PNG Defense Force, Deputy Secretary Doreen Joel emphasized the importance of preparedness: “When disasters strike, our forces support evacuations, deliver relief, and restore essential services. This Joint Programme strengthens the systems that make those operations possible.” The programme was officially launched on 27 March 2026 in Port Moresby, with participation from more than 50 representatives from government agencies, development parters, the UN, disaster management stakeholders, and provincial authorities. While national in scope, the programme will prioritise seven high risk provinces: East New Britain, West New Britain, Western, Southern Highlands, East Sepik, Madang, and Jiwaka. As climate-related and geological hazards intensify, the programme represents a major investment in strengthening PNG’s ability to protect communities when disasters occur.

As we enter this sacred Easter season, I extend my warm greetings to all our people across Bougainville — our public servants, political leaders, churches, community leaders, business owners, transport operators, youth, mothers, fathers, and families in every constituency and village.Easter is a time for reflection, renewal, and recommitment. "It reminds us to pause from the pressures of daily life and refocus on our physical and spiritual wellbeing, our families, and our faith". "As a people on an important political and economic journey, it is essential that each of us invests in our health, maintains a balanced life, and strengthens the bonds within our homes. Nation-building begins with strong families, and strong families are built through love, discipline, respect, and faith in God." To our hardworking public servants: Toroama thanks you for your service, urging all to use this period to rest, reflect, and return renewed for the important responsibilities that lie ahead. To our public transport owners and drivers: Your service carries lives every day. 'I urge you to ensure your vehicles are properly maintained and roadworthy, too many accidents have occurred on our highways, and these tragedies are preventable." "The lives of our people are in your hands — drive responsibly and honor the trust placed in you." To our youth: You are the leaders of tomorrow." "invest in your education, your character, and your future, your choices today will shape the Bougainville we will hand to the next generation". This holy week is not only a time of religious observance, but also a moment for personal awareness, where each one must ask, how will they contribute positively to Bougainville’s political and economic development? What role can each family play in building this new nation? Every positive change must begin first in our homes, says Toroama. When families are strong, communities are strong — and our nation becomes stronger. "As we observe Easter, may we do so with gratitude, humility, and renewed purpose. May God guide and bless our people, protect our children, and give us the wisdom to lead Bougainville forward." I wish everyone a peaceful, safe, and blessed Easter.

The people of Central Province have been reminded to embrace spiritual renewal, reflection, and transformation as part of the “Reset 50” milestone this Easter long weekend.Central Province Governor, Rufina Peter delivered her Easter message, encouraging individuals and communities to take time to silence their minds, search their hearts, and renew their spirit while commemorating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. She defines Easter as more than a celebration, describing it as a profound call to rediscover one’s identity in Christ through faith with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The message states that true transformation begins within, drawing inspiration from the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a source of hope, strength, and perseverance in the face of life’s challenges. Governor Peter urged all to adopt an attitude of gratitude and peace while navigating both blessings and hardships. The message also stresses the importance of strong foundations in society, identifying families as the starting point of character development, churches as places where faith is nurtured, and communities as spaces where faith is put into action. “Let this Easter be a turning point – a time to reset by not conforming to this world but by being transformed by the renewing of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." The call aligns with a broader vision of rebuilding Central Province into a stronger, united community for future generations.

Cricket Papua New Guinea (CPNG) has officially unveiled a newly developed cricket app aimed at supporting the growth of junior cricket across the country.Launched on Wednesday, April 1st at Amini Park in Port Moresby city, the app was developed locally in Papua New Guinea through the initiative of Cricket PNG’s Cricket Data System Development Coordinator, Helai Willie, in collaboration with Melbourne-based developer Brendan Liddicoat.The platform is designed to strengthen grassroots cricket by introducing a modern system for scoring and player development. It allows coaches and officials to use tablets during matches to record scores, gather detailed player statistics, and assess individual skill sets, key factors in nurturing emerging talent.Cricket PNG’s Special Projects & Development Officer, Anthony Healy, described the app as a significant advancement for the sport in the country. He said the tool, developed locally with support from Liddicoat, enables digital scoring of junior matches while collecting valuable data to better understand each player’s abilities.Healy also noted that the system will support inclusive junior formats such as CriiO Cricket, which promotes participation, builds confidence, and prioritizes safety through modified equipment like softballs.He said the innovation marks an exciting development for junior cricket, helping create an inclusive environment that encourages young players while maintaining safety as a top priority.The initiative forms part of Cricket PNG’s Cricket Data System Development program and reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to innovation and the long-term development of players nationwide. Cricket PNG believes the app is unique to Papua New Guinea and will greatly improve coaching, talent identification and overall management of junior cricket.

Prime Minister James Marape has called for an immediate slowdown of the eviction exercises in Port Moresby city, urging all parties to act with compassion while the Government works on long-term solutions.He appealed to those with court orders to show restraint, saying authorities need time to develop proper and humane responses for affected communities. “I respectfully ask all those in possession of court orders for eviction to slow down the process. Let us allow both the National Government and the NCD authorities the time and space to find proper, humane, and lasting solutions for our people,” the Prime Minister said. Marape acknowledged that while many settlers lack legal land titles, their situation reflects broader issues like rural-urban migration and the search for better opportunities. “Many of our people have come into the city in pursuit of a better life. While some settlements may have been established outside formal legal processes, we must approach this issue from a humanitarian perspective,” he said. He stressed the need for a coordinated approach, allowing Government to assess and plan resettlement with dignity. Concerns were also raised about past evictions where land remained undeveloped. “We need a structured and coordinated approach. Government must be given the opportunity to intervene, assess, and facilitate proper settlement arrangements, including relocation where necessary, with dignity and planning,” he said. The Prime Minister also said landowners may be required to present development plans, while reaffirming that Government aims to balance legal rights with the welfare of citizens. “Those holding land titles will be asked to present their development plans as soon as possible. Government is prepared to work with landowners to ensure that development proceeds responsibly, while also ensuring that affected communities are properly relocated,” he said. Prime Minister Marape stressed that the Government’s priority is to balance lawful land ownership with the welfare of citizens.