The President of the Public Servants Netball Competition, Mary Nauga, has praised the success of the 2024-2025 season, noting that several departments participated in raising awareness about the various services they provide. She said, the grand final showdown on Saturday saw a total of eight divisions with the premier division (top division), where the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) triumphed over the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) in a thrilling match. The final score was 30-28, with BPNG clinching victory by a narrow two-point margin in the final quarter. Founded in 1989, the association will celebrate its 35th anniversary on March 8th at the APEC Haus. During this event, all teams will be recognized, and awards will be presented. "We’ve been inviting all the teams to come, sit down, relax, and enjoy the occasion while receiving their awards," Nauga said. Despite the season's success, Nauga acknowledged the challenges that come with being a public servant, particularly the delays in funding. "As public servants, our funds always come in very late, usually around March during the first quarter," she explained. "Some departments faced difficulties in making payments, but as an executive, we’ve been flexible this season. We allowed teams to pay late registrations." The competition raised a significant K75,000 from player and team registrations. In addition to the successful season, Nauga announced the winner of the highly anticipated logo competition will be revealed during the anniversary and awards night on March 8th. “Teams were invited to submit their designs for a chance to win K1,000 towards their registration for the next season. So far, there have been four submissions, and the winning logo will be launched at the event.” The 2024-2025 season marks another milestone for the Public Servants Netball Competition, and with ongoing support from the community and teams, it promises to continue growing and bringing people together in the future.

In a powerful speech at the Indo-Pacific Forum's Discussion on Geopolitics and Rugby League, Papua New Guinea's government extended its gratitude and support to key figures shaping the future of rugby league in the region. On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko expressed profound appreciation to high-profile guests, including Mr. Joe Hockey, Global President of Bondi Partners; Emma Doyle, former Principal Deputy Chief of Staff to President Donald Trump; Richard V. Spencer, former U.S. Navy Secretary; ARLC Chairman Peter V’Landys; and Ambassador Kevin Rudd. “Papua New Guinea is deeply appreciative of the opportunity to be part of the NRL here in Las Vegas,” Tkatchenko stated, underscoring the importance of Australia and the United States as key strategic, development, and trading partners. A major highlight of the discussion was the announcement of Australia's 10-year Pacific Rugby League Partnership, which promises to support grassroots rugby, elite rugby league pathways, and the eventual introduction of a PNG-based NRL side in an expanded NRL Telstra Premiership. The partnership also includes PNG, Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji, all set to benefit from increased investment in rugby league development. Rugby League is not just a popular sport in Papua New Guinea; it is regarded as the national sport. "Rugby League can unite the country," Tkachenko reiterated, echoing the words of Prime Minister James Marape. In a country with vast and diverse communities, rugby league stands as a unifying force that brings people together. The NRL's expansion into PNG is seen as a major step in nation-building, offering investment opportunities, boosting tourism, creating employment, and enhancing education through rugby league academies and capacity-building programs. "Rugby League will strengthen relations with Australia, PNG, and the Pacific Region, enhancing partnerships in trade, security, governance, and economic development," Tkatchenko said, highlighting the significance of international collaboration. The discussion also touched on the role of sports diplomacy, with rugby league playing a central role in strengthening the Pacific Islands Strategy, focused on democracy, prosperity, and resilience in the Pacific. Tkatchenko also thanked the U.S. Government for its ongoing support in projects aimed at building community resilience and promoting democratic governance. Looking ahead, Tkatchenko highlighted the potential of the Indo-Pacific Rugby League initiative to host world-first events, expanding the global footprint of the NRL, Super League, and international rugby league. The growing popularity of these events offers new opportunities for tourism and development, as well as American investment in the region through sports diplomacy. As the Indo-Pacific Rugby League movement gathers momentum, Papua New Guinea’s involvement promises to strengthen ties across the region, while creating new avenues for collaboration, growth, and shared prosperity.

The Vatican has issued a nine-word statement on the condition of Pope Francis, who is critically ill in hospital battling double pneumonia, since Wednesday. The 88-year-old Pope has now spent two weeks at Rome's Gemelli hospital, marking his longest stay since he began his papacy 12 years ago. "The pope had a tranquil night and is resting," the Vatican said in a statement. It did not provide any further details. On Thursday, the Vatican said Pope Francis slept well overnight, and that he was once again resting. A Vatican official, who did not wish to be named because he was not authorised to discuss the pope's condition, said the Pope was alert, continuing his treatments, and able to eat normally and move about his room. The official said it was unclear how long Francis would remain in hospital. He was still receiving supplementary oxygen from a small tube under his nose, but was breathing on his own. Meanwhile, a public audience on Saturday had been cancelled, the Vatican said. However, it did not say whether Francis would lead his usual weekly prayer with pilgrims on Sunday. He has not been seen in public since being admitted to hospital. He was well enough to meet the Vatican secretary of state in his room to approve new decrees for possible saints on Tuesday. During the meeting, Francis approved decrees for two new saints and five people for beatification – the first step toward possible sainthood. According to his doctors, his prognosis remained "guarded". The kidney “insufficiency” detected earlier in the week had receded. Blood tests also showed a slight improvement, and a chest CT scan indicated that his lung infection was taking a "normal evolution" as it was being treated. Double pneumonia is a serious infection affecting both lungs, causing inflammation and scarring that can lead to breathing difficulties. The Vatican has described the Pope's infection as “complex”, resulting from multiple microorganisms. Francis, who has been pope since 2013, has suffered several bouts of ill health over the past two years. He is prone to lung infections because he developed pleurisy as a young adult and had part of one lung removed. He underwent intestinal surgery in 2021 and again in 2023. Francis has said that he would consider resigning after his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, “opened the door” and became the first pope in 600 years to retire, in 2013. However, Giovanna Chirri, a reporter for the Italian news agency ANSA who broke the story of Benedict’s resignation, said that she didn’t think Francis would follow suit “even if some would want it”.

The grand final for the Public Sector's Netball Competition is currently underway at the Sir John Guise Stadium indoor complex. In the Division 3 match, the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council (PMNEC) defeated NCDC 15-8 in a thrilling contest. The first half of the game saw PMNEC gain control of the match by securing their first shoot within the first minutes of the game. While the ladies in yellow tried to gain momentum of the game with a couple of unsuccessful shoots, PMNEC still pushed through to get more rings. While the crowd cheered both sides on, team NCDC returned with high spirits to get their first ball within the first minute of the game. Much to the excitement of the fans, NCDC put up a good defense to hold back PMNEC with just 15 points and NCDC secured 8 points in the end. Meanwhile, Competition President Mary Nauga said, this season was a successful one and anticipates a much bigger and better one next season. She added that, all teams received their medals upon completion of the match while all presentations will be done during their 35th anniversary celebration and presentation night next weekend at APEC Haus.

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a strong and unambiguous message to all Papua New Guineans, urging them to uphold the rule of law. He emphasized that no justification, no matter the circumstances, can excuse criminal behaviour. He has condemned recent incidents of violence, destruction, and illegal roadblocks, stressing that these actions not only endanger lives but also undermine the country’s economic and social stability. “There is no justification for breaking one law in an attempt to seek justice for another crime." "Lawlessness does not solve problems—it only deepens them." He highlighted a recent case in Tari, where police, with the support of the local community, successfully arrested a suspect involved in the killing of a police officer. “The perpetrator is now behind bars, and the legal process is underway." "This is the correct course of action—justice through the law, not through retaliatory violence,” he said. The Prime Minister further condemned those who use criminal behaviour as a means of drawing attention to grievances. "No excuse, no justification can validate committing another crime to protest an existing one." "Resorting to violence, destruction, and intimidation does not solve problems—it creates more victims.” Prime Minister Marape took particular aim at the destruction and disorder along the Highlands Highway, warning that such actions jeopardise the very livelihoods of the people involved. “My government has invested over K2 billion into upgrading the Highlands Highway." "This road is a national asset, crucial for economic activities such as agriculture, small businesses, trade, and tourism." "Blocking roads, setting vehicles alight, and destroying property is reckless and self-defeating,” he said. He noted that innocent citizens, including small business owners, have suffered due to these acts of lawlessness. “I sympathise with the mother from Jiwaka who lost her vehicle due to roadblocks." "She is part of the SME sector, trying to sustain her family, yet criminals destroyed her means of earning a living." "This government will not ignore genuine grievances such as hers, but those who cause such destruction will face the full force of the law.” The Prime Minister also acknowledged that major trucking companies like Mapai and Trans Wonderland Ltd have been affected, reinforcing the economic damage caused by these disruptions. "Do not expect the government to provide free education, healthcare, and infrastructure if you destroy the very economy that funds these services,” he warned. Prime Minister Marape called upon local leaders to take a stand against lawlessness, urging councillors, provincial governors, and community elders to actively maintain peace in their respective areas. “For the first time, my government has placed councillors on the payroll. If you want government support, you must first ensure that your communities are law-abiding." "Your role is not to stand idly by while young people engage in reckless behaviour—you must be the voice of authority in your communities,” he stated. He stressed that members of parliament, governors, and local leaders must work together to prevent violence from escalating. "Governors must ensure that peace and mediation teams in their provinces are functioning." "If conflicts arise between different provinces, then peace mediation teams must be deployed immediately to resolve disputes before they spiral out of control.” Recognising Papua New Guinea’s deep cultural traditions, the Prime Minister called for the restoration of community-based mediation and customary dispute resolution mechanisms. “In our culture, compensation and mediation play a critical role in resolving disputes." "But these processes must be handled within the bounds of the law, led by village councillors, elders, and local authorities—not by mobs taking the law into their own hands." He called on local communities to work with police rather than against them. “If a crime has been committed, report it to the police and allow the justice system to function." "Do not take matters into your own hands." "If the police in your area are slow to act, escalate the issue to their superiors." "Justice will be served, but it must be done legally.” Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement, stating that police operations will intensify across the country to crack down on criminals and bring offenders to justice. “I have issued a direct instruction to the Police Commissioner to step up enforcement." "While resources may sometimes be stretched, I want to assure the people of Papua New Guinea that no crime is ignored." "Every case is documented, every offender is pursued, and justice will be done,” he assured. He acknowledged that policing alone is not enough and called for a coordinated effort between law enforcement and community leaders. "Police will arrest offenders, but it is the responsibility of governors, councillors, and local leaders to ensure that peace is maintained within their communities.” As Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th year of independence, the Prime Minister urged citizens to act responsibly and reject violence. “We are not a young nation anymore." "We are turning 50, and we must act like a mature country." "Lawlessness should not define our future." "I call on every citizen—young and old—to uphold the law, respect the rights of others, and work together to build a peaceful and prosperous Papua New Guinea.” He concluded with a final appeal to all communities, especially those along the Highlands Highway: “Do not destroy your own future." "Your road is a lifeline—it brings economic opportunity, education, healthcare, and development." "Blocking it, damaging it, or intimidating those who use it will only harm your own people." "Let us work together to maintain peace and order for the benefit of our nation.”

As Papua New Guinea observes the fourth anniversary of the passing of the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare, we honour not just the life of one man, but the lasting impact of a leader whose vision led to the nation’s independence, shaped its democracy, and inspired generations. Sir Michael Somare, one of the nation’s founding fathers and its first Prime Minister, played a pivotal role in guiding Papua New Guinea to independence. His unwavering determination, resilience, and deep belief in the potential of his people were the cornerstones of his leadership. His dream of a unified, independent Papua New Guinea became a reality, and his vision changed the course of the nation’s history. As the first Prime Minister, Sir Michael steered the country through its defining moment in 1975—achieving independence and ensuring that the aspirations of the people were reflected in the new political system. His leadership during this crucial time laid the foundations for the future of the nation. However, Sir Michael's influence extended far beyond politics. He was a symbol of unity, humility, and service, always striving to ensure that every Papua New Guinean’s voice was heard. His commitment to peace and progress continues to serve as a source of inspiration today. Sir Michael leaves behind a nation forever transformed by his leadership—one that stands proudly on the world stage as a reflection of his vision and determination. His name will forever be remembered by all Papua New Guineans as the father of the nation—a tireless advocate for independence, peace, and the well-being of his people. In honour of his legacy and to mark the significance of the day, PNG HAUSBUNG took to the streets of Port Moresby, asking the public to share their thoughts on what comes to mind when they hear the name of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare and which of his many achievements stands out the most to them and here is what many of you had to say... Insert: 4th ANNIVERSARY VOX [audio wav="https://pnghausbung.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/4th-anniversary-VOX.wav"][/audio]

Prime Minister James Marape has today called for immediate global action to tackle illegal fishing and the exploitation of Pacific fisheries, stressing that Pacific nations have been the ocean's stewards for centuries. Speaking at the Honiara Summit on Sustainable Fisheries, he urged major global powers to take responsibility for their role in sea pollution and sea temperature rise and also assist in marine resources management in the Pacific. Under the theme “Iumi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries”, the summit brings together Pacific leaders, global experts, and representatives from 24 – 27 February 2025 to discuss sustainable fisheries management in the region. PM Marape reaffirmed that Pacific Island nations have always practised sustainable fisheries, long before the introduction of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 in 2015. He challenged industrial nations to acknowledge their responsibility in driving overfishing and environmental degradation. “No one needs to lecture us on fish sustainability—it is our lifestyle." "This lecture should be taken to the big industrial polluters who continue to pollute our oceans,” he stated. He called upon major partner nations to Pacific Island nations including the United States, China, Japan, India, and the European Union, to assist fight and stop illegal fishing activities in the Pacific. “If there is any sense of morality left in you, take this message back to your countries." "The ocean is a global asset, a carbon sink, a supermarket, and a superhighway for all your ships and submarines. It needs protection.” Prime Minister Marape declared that Papua New Guinea would take stronger enforcement measures to combat illegal fishing, including sinking unauthorised vessels found in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). “If I catch illegal fishing in my country, I will sink all the boats." "I have signed defence cooperation agreements with the United States, to assist in stopping illegal fishing in our waters,” he warned. He also called on the United Nations to advocate for a global crackdown on illegal fishing, which disproportionately affects Pacific nations while benefiting wealthier economies. Despite having some of the largest EEZs in the world, Pacific nations receive little economic benefit from their fisheries. Prime Minister Marape questioned why nations such as Kiribati, with a vast ocean area of 3.5 million square kilometres, remain among the lowest in GDP per capita. “Why are we amongst the poorest in the world when we hold some of the richest fisheries resources?" "We are not just Small Island Developing States—we are a Big Ocean Nation. We must rise and fight for our resources.” He further announced that Papua New Guinea will soon introduce a policy prohibiting the export of unprocessed fish, ensuring that all catches are landed and processed within the country. “From 16 September this year, no fish caught in Papua New Guinea’s waters will leave without being processed locally." "This is the way forward for ensuring economic benefits remain in our region.” Prime Minister Marape urged Pacific nations to strengthen cooperation in fisheries management and climate action, given that tuna and other fish species migrate across national borders. “We are in this together. Fish do not belong to one country—they migrate." "This is why we must work as one Pacific,” he emphasised. Concluding his address, he reiterated the need for technological support, stronger enforcement against illegal fishing, and global commitment to addressing climate change, which threatens fish stocks and Pacific livelihoods. “Let us not be lectured on sustainability—we are practitioners of it." "It is time for the world to recognise our role and support our efforts.” With the Honiara Summit set to shape future regional fisheries policies, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to safeguarding the Pacific’s resources for future generations.

Senior officials from the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) held their second meeting to discuss the draft of the 2025-2030 Strategic Health Service Plan. On Friday, February 21st, 2025, key personnel gathered at the Port Moresby Archdiocese to fine-tune the five-year plan, which will shape the development and delivery of health services in Port Moresby over the next five years. Dr. Robin Oge, Acting CEO of NCDPHA, commended the participants for their efforts in compiling this critical document. "This is a significant milestone for NCDPHA, as it marks the second meeting dedicated to developing our first comprehensive Strategic Health Service Plan since the Authority's establishment," Dr. Oge said. He highlighted the importance of the planning process in shaping the future of health services in the district and acknowledged the collective effort involved in producing the plan. Dr. Michael Dokup, Director of Curative Health, emphasized that the Strategic Health Service Plan will serve as a roadmap to ensure effective and efficient health service delivery. "It will guide our partners, stakeholders, and governing bodies such as the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and the District Development Authorities (DDA) to collaborate with NCDPHA." In addition to this internal review process, NCDPHA plans to host an external stakeholder meeting in the coming weeks to gather valuable input and insights from key stakeholders. This collaborative engagement will help refine and shape the strategic plan before it is finalized in March 2025. The ongoing development of the Strategic Health Service Plan is a vital step toward improving health service delivery in the National Capital District. As NCDPHA continues to refine the plan and incorporate external feedback, the collective efforts of all involved are essential to ensuring it serves as a strong foundation for the future of healthcare in Port Moresby and beyond.

Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Chairman, Sandis Tsaka, has confirmed the reappointment of Stanley Hondina as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for another three years. Mr. Hondina was initially appointed CEO in 2021, after serving as the acting CEO for three months following the resignation of former CEO, Reatau Rau. His reappointment marks the beginning of his second term as the head of the organization. “The board of the PNGRFL are pleased with the significant milestones and progress of the organization in the last 3 years, Stanley has served as CEO." "We have seen 3 strategic plans come into effect, as well as the successful PNG NRL Bid, amongst the revival of participation in our sport and affiliations since COVID.” “The CEO has been instrumental in setting up systems and processes at the PNGRFL in his first term, which will see impact beyond his term as the organization head." “Like any organization, Stanley has gone through the appraisal process and had the necessary performance reviews through his tenure” said Tsaka. He added, “We have complete confidence in Stanley as he continues to lead the organization forward and has proven his leadership ability and in his advisory and management roles across the tiers of our game and with his many years of experience behind him as an administrator of our sport.” Hondina’s appointment came into effect 17th February 2025, after the PNGRFL Board’s review and agreement to a term of three (3) years. Mr. Hondina said he was humbled by the appointment and thanked the Board for their confidence. “It is a huge responsibility and I will continue to do my best for the development and growth of the game, its players, officials and the many volunteers within the country." “As part of building the systems and processes, everything we do and will do, will be to build on the vision of BETTER PEOPLE, BETTER SPORT, BETTER NATION and this will only be possible with a workforce driven by our BETTER values." "With that I take this time to thank our executive management team and the hard-working staff of the PNGRFL for their tireless efforts and their commitment to this vision together with me.” Hondina previously held the role of PNG National Rugby League Competition Manager (2017 - 2020), with a background in Accounting, working for our sport he worked as an auditor both in Government and Private sectors (Auditor General’s Office and Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu) for a total of five (5) years.

Kina Bank is making a significant impact by leading efforts to save lives through blood donation for patients at Port Moresby General Hospital. Their initiative is helping to ensure a steady and reliable supply of blood, which is crucial for patients in need of life-saving treatments. Kina Bank staff in Port Moresby volunteered for this worthy cause during a two-day blood donation drive from Wednesday, 19 February to Thursday, 20 February 2025. This initiative followed a series of awareness sessions conducted by the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine for Kina Bank staff at the Head Office and branches in NCD. Kina Bank Employee Wellbeing and OHS Advisor Desmond Alesana said 48 bags of blood were collected for the hospital from the staff. “Blood donation is one of our major corporate social responsibility activities." "We are pleased to collaborate with the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine and Port Moresby General Hospital to support patient transfusions, which also benefits our staff’s health and wellbeing,” said Mr Alesana. Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine Assistant Nurse Manager Juliet Ohuesaho, emphasised the importance of donors, stating, “Donors like Kina Bank play a crucial role in ensuring that blood is available where it is needed most.” “The donated blood helps in general surgery, cancer treatments like leukemia, accident and trauma care, general medical conditions like chronic renal disease, bleeding disorders like hemophilia, and obstetric cases such as complicated deliveries and caesarean sections,” Ms Ohuesaho added. Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine Operations Manager Xenia Peni thanked the staff of Kina Bank. “All donors are heroes, their donation can mean a lifetime for someone in need." "We acknowledge Kina Bank for their commitment to health and for leading the way among the financial institutions in blood donation every year."

Former Chief Justice Sir Arnold Amet has been appointed as Papua New Guinea's new Ambassador to the United States, with his base in Washington, DC. This marks an important milestone in his career, as he transitions from the judiciary to diplomacy. With his extensive legal and leadership experience, Sir Arnold Amet is poised to play a key role in strengthening the relationship between Papua New Guinea and the United States. Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Justin Tkatchenko MP has announced at Sir Arnold's commissioning that all processes were completed, and he was now officially appointed. "Today sets a fresh start for our relationship with the United States of America." "The position of Ambassador had been vacant for a long time and I'm pleased that King Charles Ill and the President of United States, Donald Trump have signed off on the appointment of our choice and highly recommended Sir Arnold." "We have now got a fabulous new Ambassador appointment, of true honour and dignity in the likes of former Chief Justice, Governor of Madang, Member of Parliament and a senior statesman." "For him to be finally be appointed as Ambassador of US is no mistake." "Everything was done through fit and proper process at the highest level and we can finally have our ambassador for the United States." "Our relationship with the US has been quite an interesting one." "As the US now takes an independent role to PNG and has a direct line of contact with PNG not like before." "We have a lot of work to do under the new Trump Administration for the good of both our countries and the region as a whole." Sir Arnold who was appointed in 2019 was relieved to finally be commissioned to take up the post with concurrent accreditation to Canada and Mexico." He graduated at the University of Papua New Guinea in 1975 and had since held important posts in the National Judiciary Services and in the National Parliament. "I journeyed with our independence so this year is special for me." "I thank the government for the confidence in this appointment and for their perseverance in me." "It's a great honour being bestowed upon me and my wife especially at the dawn of golden jubilee of the nation's anniversary." "We all have a lot of work to do promoting our nation's achievements at our postings."

Showing appreciation and simple acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Recently, the UNPNG NGI Alumni Inc. Association met with the dedicated NCDC City Wardens to recognize their hard work in maintaining safety in various parts of the city. The gathering aimed to foster stronger collaboration in promoting health awareness and ensuring law and order within the communities. UPNG NGI Alumni Inc. Association Marketing Officer, George Brown, shared with PNG HAUSBUNG that the meeting with the NCDC City Wardens provided an opportunity for the alumni to identify how they can contribute to the city wardens' programs and play a part in helping to keep the city safe. “We had about 30 of the city wardens partake in the meeting where we got to encourage and appreciate the work they do.” Brown said that the short meet and greet session with the wardens gave the alumni’s the opportunity to thank and encourage them for the work they’ve been carrying out, especially at Gordons and Boroko, where the city wardens are stationed. Brown added the presence of the city wardens has cut down the crime rates at these two hubs making it safe for the public, especially for women and girls. “Theres a cut down of petty crimes in these areas." "Like theft, pickpocketing and bag snatching." "They have opened up our eyes about the work they do and it's more than that." "How they organize themselves, down to being able to handle the situations and have control measures in terms of how they manage themselves on the ground.” He said, the city warden initiative is an effective one and should have wardens on ground in other hot spot areas in the city, but due to funding issues they only have two stations. They are hoping to expand their services to other parts of the city soon to curb crime rates. Brown further stated, one of the concerns they raised during the meeting was little recognition for the work they do, where the alumni gave motivational speeches and encouraged the team to continue to keep the city safe as their efforts go a long way.