In response to the resurgence of the deadly poliovirus in Papua New Guinea (PNG), UNICEF and the Government of PNG have launched a nationwide vaccination blitz to immunise nearly three million children against polio, measles, and other preventable diseases. Speaking at the launch ceremony at New Erima High School in Port Moresby, UNICEF PNG Representative Dr Veera Mendonca delivered an urgent message to parents and caregivers across the country. “The goal is urgent and clear: to vaccinate nearly three million children under the age of 10 before the virus can spread further and destroy their futures.” The campaign, led by the Ministry of Health with support from UNICEF and other partners, will run from the 11th to 26th August across seventeen mainland provinces. These include Morobe, Madang, West Sepik, East Sepik, the National Capital District, and others identified as high-risk due to low immunisation rates. “This campaign is about one thing and one thing only; reaching every single child, no matter where they live.” Health authorities launched the emergency effort after the poliovirus was detected in Lae City in Morobe Province, through surveillance of sewage samples and in three asymptomatic children, strong indicators of community transmission. PNG, which had previously been certified polio-free, is now confronting a dangerous decline in routine immunisation coverage. “Technical specialists in immunisation, cold chain, advocacy, and social and behaviour change are working alongside national and provincial authorities to ensure the campaign reaches every child, including those in hard-to-reach areas.” In addition, UNICEF is providing critical support, including oral polio vaccines, cold chain infrastructure, and technical guidance for planning and delivery. The campaign also integrates routine vaccinations to protect against other diseases, further strengthening PNG’s public health defences. “UNICEF is also supporting community engagement activities to raise awareness and encourage parents and caregivers to vaccinate their children.” Meanwhile, the Government has activated the National Emergency Operations Centre and committed resources to support the rapid rollout in which Dr Mendonca praised the swift and decisive action. “We commend the Government of PNG for responding with urgency, making the necessary funds available, and showing the leadership needed to protect every child.” “Polio can take away a child’s future in an instant, but we can stop it. We have the experience, we have the partnerships, and most importantly, we have the will.” Moreover, she emphasised that the success of the campaign will depend not only on policy and logistics, but on the collective effort of communities nationwide. “The heart of this battle is not in offices; it is in schools and in communities. It is with mothers, fathers, local leaders, health workers, pastors, teachers, and students.” With one of the youngest populations in the world, Papua New Guinea faces both a challenge and an opportunity. “PNG is blessed with one of the youngest populations on earth.” “To reap the fruits of this demographic dividend, children must grow up healthy.” While some provinces have shown strong performance in immunisation efforts, others are significantly lagging behind. Dr Mendonca expressed hope that this campaign would mark a turning point. “Some provinces are already doing reasonably well when it comes to immunisation, but some others are woefully behind. This campaign is going to change that once and for all.” “This is not just a campaign, let it be a turning point for the children of Papua New Guinea.”

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has officially announced that the second player transfer window for the 2025 Premier Soccer League season will open on Monday, 18 August 2025, and close on Monday, 1 September 2025. This window allows participating clubs to:         Register and de-register players          Facilitate player movements between clubs within the league          Recruit players from other federations, subject to FIFA’s International Transfer Management System (TMS)regulations Important Notes for Clubs:          Transfer Documentation: All transfers must be accompanied by a signed transfer          document, approved by both the releasing and receiving clubs.          Advance Preparation: Clubs are encouraged to prepare all transfer paperwork early          to avoid last-minute issues.          International Transfers: Incoming players from overseas federations must comply          with FIFA’s TMS transfer periods.          Squad Limit: The Master List remains capped at 30 registered players.          Transfer Limit: A maximum of five (5) transfers is allowed during this window,          including players not previously registered with another franchise club.          Transfer Fees: ·         Current Senior National Players: K1,000 per player ·         Other Players: K500 per player         Payments are to be made to the National Soccer League BSP Account.          Required Forms: All clubs must use the official Transfer Form provided by the Competitions Department, and attach: o   Letter of Release from the releasing club, or o   Letter of Request from the requesting club          Submission Deadline: Updated Master Lists must be emailed to the Competitions Department by Monday, 1 September 2025, before 11:59 PM. Competition Update:         First Round concludes after Round 11 on 23 August 2025.          The competition will then take a two-week break.          Second Round resumes with Round 12 on 13 September 2025. PNGFA urges all clubs to strictly adhere to the transfer window deadlines and requirements to ensure a smooth transition into the second half of the 2025 season.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and the PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNG NRLC) have announced that Round 18 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup will be named "Round for Ray" to support WNBPG Kimbe Cutter player Ray Amos. Amos sustained a serious neck injury in Round 5 of the competition while scoring a try just four minutes into the first half. He is currently at Port Moresby General Hospital receiving rehabilitation. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina and Performance and Pathway General Manager Tony Archer have visited Amos and his family to inform them of the decision. According to Hondina, PNGRFL and PNG NRLC have been providing support since the injury occurred, and Amos's condition has improved. "We would like to acknowledge the hard-working doctors and nurses at Port Moresby General Hospital for their expertise," Hondina said. The "Round for Ray" initiative will be held at all Digicel ExxonMobil venues in Minj, Rabaul, Lae, Goroka, and Port Moresby city. Fans will have the opportunity to make donations at these locations. A bank account has also been established to assist Amos with medical bills and related expenses. Donation details will be released on Friday, August 15th, 2025.

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has announced a revised match schedule for the ongoing PNGFA Futsal League 2025. Effective immediately, matches will now be played twice a week — every Monday and Thursday. This scheduling change follows consultation with the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Competitions Department and is necessary to conclude the league earlier than planned. The adjustment will allow PNGFA to identify the national champion and submit the final squad list for the OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League 2025 no later than 12 September 2025. The upcoming OFC tournament will mark a historic first, with PNGFA’s inaugural futsal champion club representing the country at the regional level. The league was initially scheduled to run through October. However, ending the competition earlier avoids a number of preparation challenges ahead of the OFC tournament in Fiji this November, including:  Finalizing and processing passports for players and officials Securing funding for travel, accommodation, meals, and insurance Managing leave arrangements for players and staff from work, school, and home Preparing full sets of team uniforms (including goalkeepers and bibs) in line with OFC requirements PNGFA thanks all clubs for their continued support, cooperation, and professionalism throughout this first-ever national futsal competition. Your participation has made history for the sport in Papua New Guinea. PNGFA also appreciates the encouragement and recognition from OFC, acknowledging this major step in the development of futsal in PNG.

The Papua New Guinea U16 Men’s National Football Team has departed Port Moresby today for Honiara, Solomon Islands, to compete in the OFC U16 Men’s Championship, the official qualifying tournament for the FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2026. Under the guidance of Head Coach Mathew Witu, the 23-man squad will proudly represent PNG on the regional stage. Their mission: to claim one of the two qualification spots available for next year’s World Cup, a feat that would mark a historic first for PNG’s men’s youth football. Coach Witu expressed his confidence in the team’s readiness and stated, “Our boys have put in the work and are ready to compete. This is an opportunity not just to represent the country, but to make history. We’ll give it everything we have.” PNG Football Association President John Kapi Natto, who officially farewelled the team on Friday, offered words of inspiration: “You can rewrite our history by creating your own history and qualify for the U17 Men’s World Cup in Qatar 2026.” In the lead-up to the tournament, the team has undergone a rigorous preparation program, including technical drills, tactical simulations, strength training, and team-building exercises. The PNGFA technical team and staff from PNG High-Performance Sport have worked closely with the players to ensure they are in peak condition for competition. The OFC U16 Men’s Championship begins this Friday at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara. PNG has been drawn into a competitive group alongside Melanesian rivals Fiji, as well as the Cook Islands and Tahiti. PNG U16 Fixtures – Group Stage Venue: Lawson Tama Stadium, Honiara Match 1: PNG vs Cook Islands | 17/08/25 | 12:00pm (11:00am PNG time) Match 2: PNG vs Tahiti | 20/08/25 | 12:00pm (11:00am PNG time) Match 3: PNG vs Fiji | 23/08/25 | 3:00pm (2:00pm PNG time)

As part of its ongoing commitment to support health and wellbeing within Papua New Guinea’s justice system, Pacific International Hospital (PIH) conducted free eye screenings for members of the judiciary during a retreat held at Loloata Island Resort on 5 August 2025. The screening was part of the Judicial Wellness Initiative, a collaborative effort between PIH and the Papua New Guinea Judiciary aimed at promoting long-term health among judiciary staff. A total of 24 Judges and their spouses benefited from the service, which focused on the early detection of vision issues and raising awareness about preventive eye care. PIH General Manager, Sales & Marketing, Mr. Shadab Anwar Siddiqui said, “We’re proud to continue supporting the PNG Judiciary through targeted wellness programs. Our collaboration ensures that staff working in vital sectors like the judiciary have access to preventive and quality healthcare services.” The initiative follows the success of International Judicial Well-being Day, held on 25 July 2025 at the Waigani Court Grounds. During that event, PIH provided free basic health checks to over 200 staff members from the National Judicial Staff Services (NJSS), including blood pressure, blood glucose, and BMI assessments. The Judicial Wellness Initiative highlights a growing recognition of the importance of preventive healthcare in sustaining an effective and resilient judiciary. Both PIH and the judiciary have pledged to continue working together to deliver accessible and high-quality health services for legal professionals across the country. “The Judicial Wellness Initiative reflects the shared commitment of PIH and the Papua New Guinea Judiciary to promote health and wellness among its workforce,” Mr. Siddiqui added.

In a powerful show of unity and commitment, the World Health Organization joined the Government of Papua New Guinea and partners at New Erima Primary School in Port Moresby to launch a nationwide campaign to protect children from the threat of polio. This vital initiative marks a bold step forward in safeguarding the health and future of the country’s youngest generation. Speaking at the launch, Dr Masahiro Zakoji, on behalf of the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Papua New Guinea, emphasized the significance of the campaign. “This moment represents more than just a public health initiative; it is a bold step forward in our shared mission to secure the health and future of Papua New Guinea’s youngest generation.” Since May 2025, PNG has been responding to an outbreak of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2), with over 31 detections confirmed through environmental and community surveillance. While no cases of paralysis have been reported, the risk of further transmission remains high due to low routine immunization coverage and the difficulty of reaching children in remote and underserved areas. The campaign is being rolled out across all provinces with a targeted approach: Mainland Provinces (17 high-risk areas): Two rounds of vaccination using both the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV2) and the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV). New Guinea Islands Provinces (5 lower-risk areas): A single round of IPV. To maximize impact, the campaign also integrates routine immunization and essential child health services, including vitamin A supplementation and deworming. WHO is working hand-in-hand with the Government of Papua New Guinea and partners to ensure the campaign’s success. Key contributions include: Supporting the development of the outbreak response plan, immunization guidelines, and tools. Training over 100 provincial trainers, who will cascade knowledge to more than 5,000 vaccinators, 3, 000 social mobilisers, and 900 supervisors. Deploying 20 consultants to provinces to support campaign implementation and strengthen polio surveillance. Enhancing surveillance systems and providing operational support to vaccination teams, especially in resource-limited areas. The campaign is made possible through the unwavering support of health development partners, including the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), UNICEF, Gavi, and the Governments of Australia and New Zealand. Their contributions are vital to achieving high immunization coverage and building resilient health systems across the country. Dr Zakoji concluded with heartfelt thanks to the health workers, community leaders, and partners whose tireless efforts are making this campaign possible. “Your dedication is the driving force behind our progress. Together, we can achieve a polio-free future for Papua New Guinea.”

South Pacific Brewery (SP Brewery) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting culture and community by partnering with the Enga Cultural Show Committee. The brewery donated K5,000 to support the 31st Enga Cultural Show, which commenced on Friday 8th and ending tomorrow, Sunday 10th August at John Siki Oval in Wabag. The annual show is one of Papua New Guinea’s most iconic cultural festivals, celebrating the unique heritage and traditions of the Enga Province. SP Brewery’s External Affairs Manager, Luke Beliga, expressed the company’s pride in supporting the event. "SP Brewery is happy to support the 31st Enga Cultural Show. We believe this event will continue to promote the culture of Enga, foster a safe and peaceful community, and boost tourism in the area. This show aligns with our core purpose of fostering the joy of true togetherness, and we are grateful for the opportunity to bring communities together and showcase the diverse culture of this country,” Beliga stated. Chairlady of the Enga Show Committee, Margaret Potane, thanked SP Brewery for its contribution. “We thank SP Brewery for supporting this show. It reflects their commitment to preserving our culture, and the embracing spirit of togetherness that this show represents,” Potane said. SP Brewery’s support for the Enga Cultural Show reflects its ongoing dedication to corporate social responsibility and its efforts to back local events that promote unity, diversity, and cultural pride across Papua New Guinea.

The United States Department of Defense’s Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency (DPAA) has launched new recovery missions across Papua New Guinea, running from July 12 through September 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to locate and repatriate American service members missing from World War II. The DPAA has been active in Papua New Guinea since 1978, seeking to account for the approximately 3,300 U.S. personnel who went missing in the country during the war. This year’s missions focus on areas within Madang, Morobe, East New Britain, and Oro provinces, where significant WWII battles occurred. DPAA teams are working closely with a wide range of partners including the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, the National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG), the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), and local and provincial leaders in the targeted regions. “DPAA is grateful for Papua New Guinea’s continued support in the search for our missing,” said Captain Cole Euverard, mission lead. “Every mission brings us closer to accounting for our nation’s heroes and bringing them home to be laid to rest by their families.” He added that without the ongoing assistance from PNG’s institutions and communities, the recovery efforts would not be possible. The DPAA's global mission is to provide the fullest possible accounting of U.S. personnel missing in action from past conflicts. Their investigation and recovery teams operate worldwide, including in the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and Europe, searching for those still unaccounted for. These latest missions reaffirm the longstanding partnership between the United States and Papua New Guinea, rooted in a shared history and mutual respect for the sacrifices made during World War II.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has announced the return of the Pawa Meri Round this weekend, in partnership with the SP PNG Hunters, Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos Cup. Now in its second year, the Pawa Meri Round honors the significant contributions of women to the game of rugby league in Papua New Guinea (PNG), both on and off the field. From players and coaches to team managers, trainers, and game day staff, the round highlights the essential roles women play in the rugby league ecosystem. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Hondina said the initiative is a direct outcome of the PNGRFL Wan Haus Policy, which promotes inclusion across all levels of the sport. Under this policy, all three national and international competitions which are the Hostplus Cup (SP PNG Hunters), Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos Cup, will participate in this weekend’s celebration. “All players, game day staff, and competition officials will wear bright pink socks as a show of recognition.” “The SP PNG Hunters will also take the field in their dedicated Pawa Meri jerseys for Round 20 of the Hostplus Cup.” He also extended an open call to businesses and organizations to support the round in future editions. “We hope that next year we can partner with like-minded businesses to further champion this important cause.” Hondina highlighted recent milestones in women’s rugby, including the establishment of a National Women’s Rugby League Competition, and reaffirmed PNGRFL’s commitment to gender equality. He revealed that a PNGRFL Gender Equality Strategy will be officially launched in the coming months. “The Pawa Meri Round is more than symbolic; it is a reminder that we play with respect and stand united against all forms of gender-based violence.” “I also want to acknowledge the incredible work of our female staff, sponsors, and volunteers, past and present, who have shaped the growth of rugby league in PNG.”

A night of celebration, recognition, and hope for the future marked the 10th anniversary of the STEM program in Papua New Guinea (PNG), as 80 top-performing students were honored ahead of their academic journeys to the United States, India, China, Malaysia, and Fiji. The event, held in Port Moresby, brought together key government officials, international diplomatic representatives, education leaders, proud parents, and scholarship recipients under one roof to celebrate the third cohort of PNG’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students selected for overseas scholarships. Dr. Uke Kombra, Secretary for the Department of Education, emphasized the significance of the evening, describing the selection of these students as a “golden opportunity” and a reflection of PNG’s commitment to nurturing the nation's brightest young minds. "You are the 1%,” Dr. Kombra told the students. “You have been chosen purely on academic merit, not on where you come from or who your parents are. You carry the hopes of your families, your communities, and your country.” Dr. Kombra highlighted that out of over 17,000 Grade 10 graduates in 2022, only 203 students enrolled in STEM programs in the National Schools of Excellence in 2023. From those, 160 students have been selected this year, representing just 0.7% of all Grade 12 students – a testament to the program’s rigorous standards. The event also marked the first official sponsorship by Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), which committed to funding 30 students annually for the next five years. “A big thank you to KPHL and the government of the day,” said the Dr. Kombra. “Your support will change lives and build our country’s future.” The celebration was attended by representatives from the Indian High Commission, the United States Embassy, and other diplomatic missions – partners who continue to support PNG’s STEM advancement. Minister for Education, Lucas Dekana, and Minister for Higher Education, Kinoka. Feo was acknowledged for their ongoing dedication to securing funding and logistical support for the program, despite financial challenges. Dr. Kombra praised Minister Dekana in particular for his relentless advocacy, noting that “he checks on the students 24/7.” This year’s STEM scholars will pursue studies in 53 different disciplines, including Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Biotechnology, Aerospace Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Forensic Science, and Agricultural Biosystems – many of which are not currently offered in PNG. “We believe that these students will return not just with degrees, but with the expertise to transform our economy, infrastructure, and society,” said Dr. Kombra. He also reminded students of the cultural adjustments they would need to make, particularly in countries like India and the U.S., encouraging them to embrace diversity and maintain focus. The emotional highlight of the night came when Dr. Kombra recalled a past recipient—the son of a taxi driver—who broke into tears upon receiving his scholarship, demonstrating the transformative power of education. The Department of Education has now supported 368 students through the STEM scholarship program since its inception in 2021, with numbers expected to grow as partnerships expand and institutional frameworks strengthen. “There is no difference between a child from PNG and Elon Musk,” Dr. Kombra said. “It’s about how much you are willing to work, how much you give, and how far you want to go.” As the students prepare to depart for their studies abroad, the nation watches with pride and high expectations. The students are set to live for US and India next week. “You don’t come back as any normal graduate,” Dr. Kombra reminded the students. “You are going overseas not just for yourselves, but to make a difference for your country.”

Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development, Jason Peter, has reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso government’s commitment to inclusive development with a K20,000 donation to Mt Sion Blind Centre in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province. The donation, presented during a visit on Monday, 28 July 2025, is part of the Church-State Partnership Program and aims to support the centre’s ongoing work in empowering people with special needs. Minister Peter was accompanied by Secretary Jerry Ubase and members of the Church Development Council (CDC). He commended Mt Sion’s work, acknowledging the Catholic Church’s leadership in delivering inclusive community services. “Every citizen, regardless of ability, deserves protection, dignity, care, and opportunity,” the Minister said during the visit. In a symbolic gesture, a visually impaired resident presented a handwoven bilum to Prime Minister James Marape, through Minister Peter, as a token of appreciation for the government’s support in building and sustaining the centre. Mt Sion Chairperson and Principal, Mr. Justin Wagame, thanked the Minister and delegates for the financial support. He also took the opportunity to outline the centre’s challenges, including limited skilled staffing and ongoing funding constraints. Despite these hurdles, Wagame emphasized the centre’s commitment to delivering education, life skills, and care for individuals living with disabilities. The Minister’s visit followed the latest CDC meeting and underscores the government’s continued focus on uplifting vulnerable communities across Papua New Guinea.