Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso has emphasized Morobe Province's significant contribution to tax revenue, stating that it generates more than K40 million in Goods and Services tax. According to a 2014 report by the National Economic and Fiscal Commission, all provinces collectively raised K1.1 billion in revenue, with more than half of this amount coming from the National Capital District and Morobe Province. In 2022, Morobe Province contributed K205 million in Goods and Services tax revenue, highlighting the importance of fostering an environment conducive to investment to further enhance tax generation and stimulate economic growth. Speaking during the inauguration of the 550-kilometer Erica Road project in Lae, Rosso reiterated the longstanding infrastructural challenges faced by the city, earning it the reputation of the "pothole city." He emphasized the urgent need to address these issues to unleash the economic potential of the province. DPM Rosso underscored the vital role of infrastructure investments in supporting local businesses and facilitating economic expansion. The Erica Road project, funded at nearly K9 million by the Department of Works, marked a significant milestone in addressing years of neglect and improving connectivity within Lae. Rosso stressed the economic significance of such infrastructure improvements and highlighted the role of major companies, like Coca-Cola, located along Erica Street, in driving economic activity and tax revenue. Rosso emphasized the responsibility of the District Development Authority and elected representatives in mobilizing resources to elevate Morobe Province's infrastructure to international standards. He acknowledged the crucial role of the Department of Works in ensuring road projects meet required standards and pledged to complete all feeder and main roads within Lae District, including sealing suburbs with lower traffic volumes. Rosso highlighted the importance of partnership and collaboration among elected leaders to drive successful development initiatives, emphasizing the need for patience, diligence, and unwavering commitment in securing funding for vital infrastructure projects such as sealed roads.

The Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) clarifies the referee Bonny Bin’s late decision was incorrect In the Match on Saturday between Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles and Gas resources Central Dabaris in Minj, Jiwaka. The referee originally sent Eagles Captain Levai Andrew into the sin bin for swearing at him. After two minutes of arguing to remain on the field, the referee decided to allow Andrew to remain playing but place him on report. The match ended in 18points draw. General Manager of Pathways and performance Mr. Tony Archer confessed to the mistakes today sharing that we conduct a full review of the matches in the competition, and it is disappointing that this incident occurred. “The actions of the referee, the player, and some officials involved were not what is expected in the game.” “Respecting the decision of a match referee and the correct application of the rules of the game from a referee is paramount.” “We are driving hard in improving the professionalism of our game and to have this incident occur is unfortunate and not to the standards expected,” Mr. Archer said. The PNGNRLC have taken immediate actions and stood down referee Bonny Bin from officiating round 5 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Competition. Meanwhile, Eagles captain Levai Andrew will also be suspended for 10weeks after being charged with separate grade 3 contrary conduct charges from the match review committee. Mr. Archer emphasized that the hardship the Digicel ExxonMobil Officials team face every week and through observations from the four rounds of matches, their performance is improving every week. They know he need to be accountable and responsible for their performance and decision. “I have every confidence that Bonny Bin will go back despite being dropped,” said Mr. Archer. Further investigations into the actions of clubs, their officials and game day staff are continuing.

The second annual Power Play Awards (PPA) Papua New Guinea (PNG) was launched at the Hilton Hotel on Monday 6 May to identify Papua New Guinean trailblazers and shine a light on their accomplishments across the LNG and decarbonisation industries. Chairperson and Managing Director at ExxonMobil PNG, Tera Shandro shared the PPA PNG is built on a foundation of storytelling, where every story is unique, and every story should be celebrated. Developed by women, Power Play is a global program to bring together other women from across the industry, while the PPA acknowledges the contributions of the company’s valued external partners. “Papua New Guinea’s LNG industry is more than just ExxonMobil and the PNG LNG operations, this year Mark’s 10years since the PNG LNG Project started production and we reflect on accomplishments and acknowledge the support of our external partners,” she said. “We see a decade’s worth of stories and accomplishments that need to be recognized and celebrated.” ExxonMobil Expanding the Program with decarbonisation industry in 2024, contributions by each category of the local LNG and decarbonisation industries qualify four Papua New Guineans to be nominated under four categories. The Rising Star will celebrate a woman, 35 or younger, who is excelling early in her LNG career. The Low Carbon Accelerator will recognize a woman who is making significant contributions to the decarbonisation industry by leveraging innovation and collaboration to accelerate society’s path to net zero. The Ambassador will honour a person, woman, or man, who, through their words, actions, and positive energy, inspires those who work with and around them in the LNG industry. The Pioneer has been expanded to honour a person, woman, or man, who has delivered outstanding LNG business results or innovation and technology leadership amid the ever-evolving energy transition landscape. Awarded to be recognized and accepted as Best of the Best. Their achievements will be celebrated and recognized on the international stage as a part of the PPA PNG cocktail reception on Tuesday 9th July.   If their application is successfully shortlisted, they will be invited to the GASTECH Conference in the United States on September 17 to 20 with ExxonMobil sponsoring their attendance and join an exclusive community of Power Players in LNG around the world. PPA PNG Advocate and Biodiversity Supervisor at ExxonMobil PNG, Ms Anita Mosby added that it’s not often Papua New Guineans get a global platform to tell our stories, to showcase to the world what we are capable of accomplishing, but the Power Play Awards are redefining this. “We continue to make the future of our industry diverse and inclusive the more we come together to celebrate these accomplishments.” “This industry is an engine promote opportunity for us women to prosper, to lead in our fields and communities,” she said. Ms. Mosby concluded by warning her colleague country men and women not to skip the opportunity tell the world how great PNG is by submitting your nominations or that of your colleague to the PPA PNG. Nominations are now open and will run until Friday 14 June 2024. For more information head to pnglng.com or contact powerplay.png@exxonmobil.com.

The Electronic Receipts system has been implemented by the Department of Finance, the Bank of South Pacific (BSP), and the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG). This effort aims to streamline validation procedures, expedite payment experiences, and enhance control over tax collecting among government entities. The GoPNG Electronic Receipt system's pilot phase began on Friday, May 3, 2024, marking a momentous milestone in the nation's digital transformation. With the help of this innovative technology, consumers may pay online for government services digitally and receive electronic receipts directly to their phones or emails, eliminating the need for paper trails. Ms. Margaret Tenakanai, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Finance, expressed enthusiasm for the launch, emphasizing its alignment with the government's strategic priorities. She said, "The GoPNG e-Receipt System is an enhanced feature of a digital platform designed to optimize revenue collection by enabling citizens to adopt online or mobile payments for government services." The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary is leading the initial pilot program's execution in the National Capital District (NCD) for the next six months, after which it will be extended over the entire country. The solution, created by Platform Pacific Limited, consists of easily controllable online portals specifically designed for government use. Meanwhile, Chief Operations Officer Mrs. Nuni Kulu, of the BSP Group, emphasized the significance of government and financial institution cooperation in advancing digital payments. "Building partnerships with government entities for digital payments is crucial," she stated, emphasizing BSP's commitment to enhancing customer convenience and supporting the government's digital transformation journey. The implementation of the GoPNG Electronic Receipt system marks a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea's efforts to embrace digitalization and improve public service delivery. As businesses and government departments are encouraged to transition online and adopt digital payment options, citizens can expect increased efficiency and accessibility in accessing essential services. With the successful rollout of the pilot program, the Department of Finance aims to expand the platform to include additional government service providers, further enhancing citizen convenience and streamlining revenue collection processes nationwide.

A young man was found dead yesterday early hours in Suksuk Compound, Wewak East Sepik Province, the young had been lying there for almost 3hours. During that time the public’s impression saw it as a youth member intoxicated and passed out on the road. But in actual fact, it was a dead body lying there for over 2hours. Acting ESP Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Senior Inspector James Baugen told PNG HAUSBUNG that the body was transported to Boram General Hospital, Morgue, and the police are currently conducting investigating to recover the full story of the incident. PPC Baugen said the Wewak Central Intelligence Division (CID) and Traffic Authority are currently undergoing investigations to determine the cause of death and whoever may have been involved. The PPC added he hoped this case does not turn into a murder case and shared the need for parents to control youths through good guidance. Police will remain focused on the case at hand to bring who ever responsible to justice and also to identify this case under its right case category. PPC Baugen further stated that updates would be released to the public as soon as the investigations have been completed and details are confirmed for release.

PNG citizens are once again being urged by Prime Minister James Marape to shift from a mentality of dependency to self-reliance. The call was made during the launch of the Nipa-Kutubu District Development Plan 2023-2027 on Friday, May 3 at Nipa station. "You must stop this mentality of expecting money and claiming compensation from projects and or road construction.” He emphasised the short-term benefit of such expectations, noting, "The money you get will before short-term use, and services will still be lacking, and you will continue to live in the dark."’ Prime Minister Marape strongly discouraged the constituents from approaching their local leaders for unnecessary financial aid. "I am discouraging you from asking for money from your MPs or governors.” Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the strategic focus of all district plans aligning with the national development agenda. "The National Government will support your districts and fund the plans and support what your MPs are doing.”

Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso has reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso Government's commitment to support the Solomon Islands, urging the country’s Prime Minister-elect to finalize pending mutual agreements. Hand-delivering a congratulatory letter from Prime Minister James Marape to the new Solomon Islands Prime Minister on Friday, May 3, at the Government Office in Honiara, Deputy Prime Minister Rosso also extended his personal congratulations to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele. "Prime Minister Manele, congratulations on your election into office as the 13th Prime Minister of the 12th Parliament of the Solomon Islands.” “On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea - Congratulations to you, the Ownership, Unity and Responsibility Party and your coalition, your family, and the people of the Solomon Islands.” "I extend my congratulations also to the people of the Hograno/Kia/Havulei Constituency, and the people of Isabel Province, for your instalment as the first Solomon Islands Prime Minister from your province." DPM Rosso also emphasized the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two nations since July 1978, reiterating PNG’s dedication to maintaining the strong relationship that persists to this day. "As expressed by Prime Minister Marape, our relations are firmly grounded in our bond - and by our word - Papua New Guinea will always look out for the Solomon Islands.” “Papua New Guinea stands ready to assist and support the Solomon Islands." DPM Rosso said much had been achieved between both countries over recent times, and that the Marape-Rosso Government remains committed to having all outstanding mutual agreements signed. These include the Basic Agreement between both Governments on Border Arrangements; a Treaty of Sovereignty on Maritime and Seabed Boundaries; an Agreement between both Governments on the Administration of Special Areas; and an MOU on Combined Surveillance and Common Marine Border. He also noted Papua New Guinea’s technical support through the Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority (ICSA) to the Solomon Islands Immigration Division with its ongoing capacity-building work, and Border Management Systems (BMS). This included assistance in the entry and exit of participants during the recent 2023 Pacific Games. DPM Rosso also reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's commitment to continue to consult and assist the Solomon Islands with the development and incorporation of its land management and administrative systems. Other arrangements include a progressive MOU on Tertiary Education Cooperation, and MOUs on Bio-Security Customs, and Police Cooperation on general policing which are currently under review, as well as the mooted establishment of a joint Business Council, among other pending cooperation arrangements. Deputy Prime Minister Rosso also took the opportunity to recognize and thank the incumbent’s predecessor Manasseh Sogavare for his strong leadership over his recent term, and for entrusting the leadership nominee to a leader with high-calibre as Prime Minister Manele. "I convey to you (Prime Minister Manele) our best wishes as you take Office, to establish Government and begin your work as leader of the Solomon Islands.”

As a part of their water wise wantok campaign, and an initiative of a partnership between Water PNG and the Asian Development Bank, they paid a visit to settlers at 8mile Highlands block . The awareness program comes under the PNG Government's Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WaSH) program that focuses on improved service delivery of clean drinking water, sanitation and promotes long term hygiene behaviour change. With a few funny but short skits from the Watete-Iriputi comedy group, they urged people of the community to use water wisely. Water PNG General Manager for Government and Community Relations-Mr Honk Kiap spoke of the importance of reporting water leakages and encouraged the people to take care of the water pipes that are in their communities. "Water is essential to us all. We need water to in order to survive, so you must take care of water." He spoke of the previous problems they had come across with community water boards with the previous community meter initiative where communal taps were placed in communities. With this project, there were people in the community that paid water bills but had little to no water supplied due to illegal connections done that were allowed by those in charge and told the people that would be changed with the new meter farm project that will be rolled out. "It is important for our personal hygiene that is why as part of our meter farm project, we will be giving meters to the community so that the each household will be able to look after and pay for their own water." Whilst educating the people of the process, he warned the community also of the consequences of illegal water connections saying that there would be penalty fines that will be charged to the perpetrators. There were concerns and questions raised by the community leaders, mothers and youths about the previous project but nevertheless people of the 8mile Highlands block expressed their gratitude and thanked Water PNG for this new initiative that will be rolled out. Meanwhile Kiap added that construction was underway at the Morata settlement and Hanuabada with other sites like 8mile block and Taurama Valley to follow soon.

The Special Nursery Care Ward at Port Moresby General Hospital has been experiencing a high number of admissions as of early this year and the mother and babies are in need of the people’s assistance. For an average of 1000 births per month at the labor ward, the special nursery care takes in half of the total number due to low birth weight, maternity mortality and other underlying medical conditions concerning the mother and baby. The SPECIAL NURSERY CARE (SNC) ward has the capacity to house only 50 newborn babies. The SNC team are now tirelessly working beyond their capacity to manage the increasing number of babies that are coming in every week whilst trying their very best to maintain infection control in their daily operations. Ward Coordinator and Nurse in charge Sr. Kuman, in a statement, expressed her concern saying that the Special Nursery Care ward is a unique ward because we take care of human beings in their very young developing and fragile state. “Because of the increase in admissions, we need support in basic care supplies like diapers or baby formula to keep the mothers and babies going.” “Most of these mothers come to us from outside the city usually because of medical grounds to seek specialized treatment for their babies, so they are referred to us." "Others come here when they go into emergency labor, thus most are unprepared to support themselves in the meantime." Sr. Kuman also acknowledged and thanked donors and individuals who have been stopping by occasionally to offer support in cash or kind as well as a special remark to Friends of POMGEN for the support they have provided. “For so long, my staff and I have been supporting the mothers and babies here through our small sales at the Maternity ward but now that FOPG is just next door, we no longer run out of essentials like diapers or baby formulas.“ “So, I am appealing to everyone who wish to support our babies and mothers to keep donating to FOPG because they not only support us but the basic needs of all patients in the entire hospital.” Meanwhile Friends of PomGen Operations and Communications Lead Grace Roland, stated that FOPG manages all donations according to needs at certain wards and works alongside the staff of PMGH to manage all this. “We are now appealing to all our friends both individuals and organizations to come forward and lend a helping hand to our mothers and babies at the Maternity wing." "We appreciate all the help we can get."

The Port Moresby Rugby Football League (PRFL) Inc. sets out to bring a fun and thrilling 2024 Rugby League season with over 10 clubs set to compete. Under the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), the PRFL is set to endure a strong and momentous season according to the Head Games Coordinator and Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Master of Ceremony (MC) Ground Announcer Mr. John Kaupa. The 2024 PRFL Season has 12 confirmed clubs that will participate this season under the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League requirement to possess counterpart teams in the three division of Under-20, A-Grade, and the Women’s division. 18 matches will be scheduled throughout every weekend to see a successful event. Last weekend saw the first PRFL Round 1 followed by a successful Round 2 just over the weekend where 8 teams according to their game date showed to take the field. The season will see 11 rounds of matches leading to the split rounds of two pools” A” and “B”, following five weeks of matches per pool and finishing off with four weeks of finals footy, totaling to 20 weeks of rugby league. Mr. Kaupa stressed that all clubs must properly develop their players, train them physically and also mentally to stay focused on their goal in rugby league. “Players need more mental fitness to help discipline themselves especially at a young age where temptations are becoming very casual in the city life. Be disciplined!” “Discipline covers a lot of virtue to being the best version of yourself,” said Mr. Kaupa. Mr. Kaupa furthermore said that the PRFL has commenced on its scheduled date and no delay or issues have been encountered, which reflects a positive sign to a successful 2024 season.

Prime Minister James Marape has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele. Prime Minister Manele was elected yesterday following a secret ballot vote of 31-18 in the nation’s 12th Parliament. In a congratulatory letter, Prime Minister Marape conveyed the sincere congratulations of both his government and the people of PNG, offering his support and guidance to the new leadership. “Your appointment as Prime Minister is a testament to the vibrant democratic values, principles, and peaceful process that the Solomon Islands uphold dearly.” He also acknowledged the significant contributions of Manele’s predecessor, Manasseh Sogavareh, whom he referred to as a good brother of his. “His strong and enviable leadership as Prime Minister of your beautiful of your beautiful country throughout the past five years has been one of great admiration,” said Prime Minister Marape. Highlighting the strength of the relationship between PNG and the Solomon Islands at the bilateral, regional, and international levels, Marape emphasized that it has never been stronger. “As close neighbours, it goes without saying that the Melanesian spirit of ‘looking out’ for one another will remain our word and our bond, as always.” Furthermore, the Prime Minister assured his continuous support during Prime Minister Manele’s tenure and expressed his personal readiness to provide guidance and support in the new leader’s role, looking forwards to future personal meetings. “Thus, Prime Minister, you have the assurances of my government and people that we will continue to assist and work with your government and people as you lead your country into the next five years.” “In addition, I look forward to meeting you in person in the not-too-distant future for discussions on pertinent issues with respect to our bilateral relations, and other mutual areas of interests.”

The country’s Prime Minister, James Marape has called on the residents of Mendi-Munihu and the Southern Highlands to responsibly maintain the newly reopened K41 million Mendi Airport. He appealed to the people during the inauguration ceremony held on Thursday that was attended by thousands to mark the significant milestone facilitated by the Asian Development Bank’s Civil Aviation Development Investment Programme (CADIP). Mendi Airport has been out of operations since 2018, following the torching of an Air Niugini Dash-8 aircraft, according to a statement, now features a modern terminal, secure fencing, a paved runway, and a standby generator. The reopening was celebrated with the arrival of three PNG Air planes, one of which carried Prime Minister Marape and a delegation of ministers. “It was emotional to see planes landing again at Mendi Airport after six years of closure,” stated Prime Minister Marape. He emphasized the inherent goodness and law-abiding nature of the Mendi community, while condemning the few who have historically disrupted peace for political gains. “We must stop this mentality now and allow peace and normalcy to return to Mendi, enabling air transport to thrive once more.” Additionally, the event highlighted the communal spirit and resilience of the Southern Highlands people, with the prime minister expressing his gratitude for their warm welcome. “The unity displayed by the elders and young leaders of Southern Highlands, setting aside differences for regional betterment, truly warms my heart.” Furthermore, Marape reflected on the setbacks that the region has faced since the 2018 incidents, stressing the importance of maintaining Mendi’s appeal as a business and tourist destination. With the Unity Games scheduled to be held in Mendi in 2025, he sees this as an opportunity to showcase the region’s potential. Meanwhile Governor for Southern Highlands, William Powi was commended for his efforts in ensuring the airport’s reopening. “We must restore Mendi town to its former glory. I appeal to everyone to care diligently for this new airport and its facilities.”