Mining Minister Muguwa Dilu has stressed the importance of wrapping up negotiations for the Porgera Mining Project's Community Development Agreement (CDA), as it is a top priority for the Marape-Rosso Government. Dilu urged all involved parties - landowners, impacted communities, and stakeholders of the Porgera Mining Project - to expedite the process, “so that they could start receiving benefits, aiming to kick-start benefits swiftly.” He announced the CDA-proper talks are scheduled for May 15-30, 2024, and once completed, will pave the way for the mine to go into full operations. Dilu emphasized the need for cooperation and adherence to laws governing benefit distribution, echoing sentiments from Hela Governor Philip Undialu and local landowners. They seek clarity on benefits and their entitlements, as the government and stakeholders work towards fair agreements that respect legal standards while benefiting impacted communities. The Minister was speaking in Tari on Friday April 26, where he addressed the Hides-Porgera Power Line landowners of the Porgera Mining project. The meeting with the power-line landowners was the final one of a series of pre-CDA meetings, which the State Team has been conducting in the last few months, involving all landowners and stakeholders. The Minister told the power line landowners: "Yumi mas stretim olgeta hevi na wari blong yumi before long end of May-June." Pre-CDA meetings were to provide the State’s response to the position papers, create awareness, clarify issues, prepare landowners, and respond to specific pre-dominant agendas presented in position papers submitted by landowners and stakeholders. He said all landowner groups were important stakeholders of the project, and that the government would ensure their position papers are considered. He urged them to cooperate with the State Team and quickly find ways forward to addressing their positions on major potential benefit streams available to them such as equity and Business Development Grants. He reminded the landowners however, that there were laws and policies governing the potential acquisition of benefits. He said the State would not negotiate benefits outside of laws and asked for understanding from landowners and stakeholders. The Minister was accompanied to the meeting in Tari, by the Governor for Hela Province, Philip Undialu, and the Managing Director of the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) Mr Jerry Garry, who joined the State Team that had gone to Tari earlier in the week to conduct pre-CDA meeting. Governor Undialu said his government and his people supported the Porgera Mining project. However, he urged the State Team to clearly define the various benefit streams and how exactly his government and his people would benefit, considering the various laws and policies that govern benefits distribution. His landowners expressed similar sentiments.

The economy is poised for more positive growth with K1.2 billion foreign direct investments (FDIs) into Special Economic Zones (SEZs), according to Prime Minister (PNG) James Marape. "I am pleased to announce that SEZs have already attracted K1.2 billion in FDIs through the K700 million Radisson Blu branded hotel on Paga Hill SEZ, and the K540 million Central Lime Project (CLP) Single-Factory SEZ at Kido in Central Province." The prime minister attributed this to diligent efforts by International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru and the Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZA) in securing these investments SEZA, a flagship initiative by the Marape Government, is designed to boost FDIs and enhance national investment in sectors critical for economic transformation, such as downstream processing and import replacement. This includes the Paga Hill SEZ and Central Lime Project. In a statement, Mr. Marape said, "Last December, I extended a warm welcome to the renowned international hotelier, Radisson Hotel Group, as they announced their partnership with Paga Hill SEZ to develop a K700 million Radisson Blu branded hotel on Paga Hill in Port Moresby." “Earlier this month, Mayur Resources Ltd announced to the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) that it has secured funding of US$155 million (K540 million) to complete the Central Lime Project." “These projects signify promising developments for Papua New Guinea, particularly in anticipation of major upcoming resource projects. “The Paga Hill Project will significantly contribute to employment and will greatly enhance tourism in Port Moresby and across PNG. "I am happy to hear that Mayur Resources has secured the K540 million funding to complete the Central Lime Project, and that the project has the potential to create hundreds of new jobs, support service businesses, and enhance local infrastructure including electricity, roads, education, and health facilities for landowners," said the PM. “It promises to be a transformative development for Central Province landowners and the broader manufacturing sector." PM Marape extended a warm welcome to Radisson and Mayur, affirming that they are in the right place at the right time in a country that will see unprecedented growth starting in 2024 and for the next 10 years. "The economic potential of Papua New Guinea is possibly bigger than most nations in this region." "Over the next 10 years, Papua New Guinea will be super exciting." The prime minister also took the opportunity to welcome SEZA's new Board Advisor, renowned business leader Mr. lan Tarutia, whose expertise will be pivotal as SEZA transitions to full operational status this year.

Prime Minister James Marape announced plans to deliver a comprehensive report in Parliament when it resumes next month, on how his government has been alleviating the economic burden from Papua New Guineans across the country. “Next month May will make it my fifth year in office. “When Parliament resumes then, I will present a statistical report to the country that will cover the economy, health, education, infrastructure, law & order, and everything we have done so far.” Marape affirmed that his government remains tirelessly committed to easing the struggles of the populace and ensuring the country's economic stability. “We do not talk about all we do all the time, but this government is constantly working to help alleviate the burden on our people and keep the economy of the country afloat.” Interventions include disaster relief assistance, education school fee assistance, and boosting the agriculture and mining sectors. This is despite challenges placed on the Marape-Rosso government as it navigates through COVID-19-induced local and international economic contractions, and the Ukraine-Russia war and its effects on inflation. “I want to give assurance to our people that in these hard economic times, we are doing our absolute best to spread the development Kina right across the country and keep the economy afloat.” “Our small import-dependent economy has gone through a lot of stress from internal issues and global ones as well. “As a people-focused government, we are conscious of all these, and putting in our absolute best and making interventions where it matters most.” Marape highlighted recent instances of government action, citing responses to both natural disasters in East Sepik and Chimbu, and man-made crises like the January 10 mayhem. He said the government has also been swift in providing relief and support, collaborating closely with affected provinces and districts. Furthermore, Marape said ongoing interventions in education, including paying a significant portion of secondary school fees, reducing project fees in public schools, and offering financial assistance through scholarship and loan programs for higher education (HECAS/TESAS/HELP) will continue. “Our other intervention of lifting the non-paying threshold to K20,000 is the highest any government has made (and) last time, in as many years, has been lingering at K12,500.” Marape said the government is giving out money for district development projects. “We are currently disbursing District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) funds at 40 percent mark to ensure development runs." “Our government, on record, has given more incentives to more people in tough times than any other governments of the past. “We are doing our absolute best to make sure that we help.” He further says with the full restoration of the board and management of the Central Bank, the Government expects a better interplay between its Fiscal and Monetary policies to keep the economy in better check and balance as the country progresses this year. “In the meantime, Porgera has opened (and) we are working on Pasca; we are working on Papua and P’nyang LNG projects; we are working on Wafi Golpu.” “These will be the impetus for the next wave of growth as we continue to push agriculture and others in the renewable sector forward.”

The Pepsi Moni Plus Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition kicked off over the weekend in Port Moresby on Saturday 27th April with a bang as teams, eager to gain a position on the ladder, brought in their “A game.” In the B grade division on field two, the Theodist MBB Marlins went up against the Fincorp University Piggies in a game that saw both teams play hard with aims to grab the win. The Marlins played a well-structured game with loads to show for their communication efforts that resulted in them scoring two tries in the first half to assert dominance over the Piggies. A penalty saw the Piggies get on the score board with three points from a penalty right under the goalpost as they continued to show persistence in the game. The Theodist MBB Marlins claimed the win in the end over the Piggies 10-3. Kicking off games for the A grade division on field two, the Kone Sharks and Chemcare Juggernauts battled out round one with a clash like no other. With the Juggernauts scoring a try with a missed conversion, the sharks replied with a perfectly structured try that had the right winger sliding into the try line as a successful conversion helped to put the sharks out in front with the lead. It was a game of hard hit ups that had the fans on the edge of their seats with every tackle, line break and ruck with each team playing their hardest. Despite the tight game, the Kone Sharks worked hard to stay in the lead, complicating the Juggernauts try scoring attempts. The Sharks won the match, 9-6 points. Meanwhile, it was truly exhilarating to see the players show passion for the sport through the sportsmanship shown in each game with more to come in this exciting 2024 season.

Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko has released a statement reiterating his utmost appreciation to his counterpart from the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, over their recent bilateral meet in Port Moresby this month. He also reassured PNG’s commitment to China. “I want to take this opportunity to reassure Foreign Minister Wang Yi of Papua New Guinea’s support to the ‘One China’ policy since both countries established diplomatic relations in 1976, which has been the cornerstone of PNG-China relations, and will be maintained going forward.” “I want to acknowledge and encourage China’s continued support in its implementation of Chinese Government funded projects in PNG that has greatly contributed towards our developed aspirations.” These include several agreements signed during the one-day visit on Saturday April 20. These agreements include a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for PNG to export coffee and cocoa into China; funding of K3.8 million for disaster relief donation; and Information Communication Technology Cooperation of K1.02 million for the Joint Feasibility Study for the Free Trade Agreement. Minister Tkatchenko said China’s presence in the Pacific region is to promote development cooperation and enhance collective efforts towards addressing challenges faced by both Pacific Island countries and China as developing nations. “I want to reassure Foreign Minister Wang Yi of the importance PNG places on its bilateral relations with China that friendship should be built on trust, and PNG values China as an important bilateral partner.” Minister Wang made his third official visit on April 20, holding bilateral meets with government ministers, concerning economic arrangements in different sectors. He also paid a courtesy call to Prime Minister James Marape on Sunday, April 21 before departing for Cambodia.

A District Court Magistrate in East New Britain province has called to centralize public institutions in order to restore trust and confidence in the youths. Kokopo District Court Magistrate, Leonard Mesmin made the call this week amidst recent youth fights in Rabaul town. Speaking during the first Rabaul District Law and Order Committee meeting on Wednesday, April 24th at the Rabaul Urban LLG Conference room, he highlighted the eroding trust and confidence of the younger generation in public institutions. “I agree with notion of idea of having court houses and police station in one central location and I agree on the basis that a lot of the younger generation that are coming up, have lost trust and confidence in public institutions,” he said. “Right now, they do not care if you are a police man, magistrate or government worker. They do not trust the decisions that we are carrying out on behalf of the Constitution or power vested in us.” Magistrate Mesmin further said one can no longer rely on trust that we thought they had in these institutions. “It is long gone so to in order to have them re-invest their trust and confidence in these institutions, we have got to show, as a move of confidence and from a position of strength, by having institutions like the court house, police stations all in one central locations within the town centre.” Additionally, He said this is so we can send the message out, that we can respond outwardly and not sporadically here and there that we will consistently deal with your issues from a main area. “In their head, they will know how they will be responded to and it is a consistent approach all the time from the same area or location and by doing that we can start to rebuild trust in public institutions again.” He said if we come together as public institutions and whenever there is a law-and-order problem outside, we move with position of strength to that area so people know there is a certain place that they can come to. Meanwhile Magistrate Mesmin said by bringing these essential services to a central location, a powerful message is conveyed—a message that reaffirms the commitment of these institutions to serve and protect the interests of the citizens they represent.

PNGFM Limited is pleased to announce that the YUMIFM PNG MUSIK AWARDS is back once again at the Gold Club Arena. Following a slight change in its calendar, the awards ceremony, which was initially supposed to be held on 20th of April has now been moved to the 1st of June, 2024. With the support of its sister stations, Nau FM, Legend FM, pnghausbung, Magic Factory and will be managed by the Total Event Company. In its 19th year, it remains as the only event that recognizes efforts of local artists in the country. PNGFM Ltd General Manager, Rosemarie ‘Shaz’ Botong made the announcement this morning on YUMI FM’s Kapmaus Show. “This awards show will give recognition to where it’s due to local artists from last year.” Ms. Botong announced that Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) have come on board as the proud Platinum sponsor for the YUMIFM PNG MUSIK AWARDS 2023. Additionally, she announced the nominees in the different categories who will be recognized on the awards night for their hard work and contribution towards growing PNG’s music industry. These are the 10 categories and nominees for each category: 1. ALBUM of the Year: Unlove Vol.3 EP – Saii Kay, Panu EP – 4Blordz & Danz Blantz, Maimai Inc. Vol.1 – Tonton Malele and Kanaka Messenjah – Sprigga Mek 2. SONG of the year: 4Blordz & Danz Blantz- Aburusim Mi, kande Dwayne Ft. Jay Why, Gee Yaga & Skwatas – Block Mangi and Mikes Toto Ft. Bee White & King Swagga- Missim yu 3. BEST NEW ARTIST of the year: Ewanedtz, Fisix, Legality and Shadows of Souths 4. MALE ARTIST of the year: Sprigga Mek, Tonton Malele and Saii Kay 5. FEMALE ARTIST of the year: Raylinda, Legality and Upzy Galama 6. DUO/GROUP of the year: Jnr Vigi, Minigulai Band and 4Blordz & Danz Blantz 7. PRODUCER of the year: Jemboii, Stratzmahn and Dr Wiz 8. APRA REGISTERED ARTIST of the year: Richie Saeni – Chu Chu, Ronald Haro – Missim Yu and Clinton Malele- Pikinini Niu Ailan Ft. Nene Morus & Jayrex Suisui 9. JUSTIN KILI Award - TBA 10. LISTENER’S SONG CHOICE of the year – TBA The Justin Kili Award with KEYNOTE and the Listener’s Song Choice of the Year with Platinum Sponsor Kumul Consolidated Holdings are the only two categories that will be determined by the listeners. Nominations for both categories will be open soon and the winners will be announced on the awards night. Tickets are selling for K200 (balcony) and K180 (arena) and people can pre-book their tickets for purchase with the Total Event Company on 3234288/73738809.

Residents of Bobong village and surrounding areas in Ward 18 of Wampar LLG, Huon District of Morobe province have long faced challenges accessing healthcare services, but a recent development promises to alleviate their struggles. Victoria Daniel, a mother residing in the area, highlights the difficulty of reaching health clinics, especially considering the remote location of Bobong village, which requires a lengthy walk to the main road, followed by a costly PMV (Public Motor Vehicle) ride. This journey to the nearest health facilities or even to the Morobe Provincial Health Authority in need of medical assistance has posed financial burdens on villagers, primarily reliant on income from selling produce at Lae's main market. For pregnant women in labor, the situation is even more dire, as reaching the main road to catch transportation to Lae becomes a challenging task. However, with the official launch of an aidpost in Bobong village, a beacon of hope shines for the residents of Ward 18 and its neighboring communities. The establishment of the aidpost, made possible through collaborative efforts between Huon District, the District Health Manager, and funding from the ward councilor's office, marks a significant milestone in addressing the healthcare needs of the region. Huon Gulf District MP, Jason Peter, graced the inauguration ceremony at Bobong village, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in improving healthcare accessibility for rural communities. Looking ahead, efforts are underway to ensure the aidpost is fully operational with the recruitment of healthcare officers to serve the clinic, as confirmed by the District Health Manager and ward councilors. The inauguration of the aidpost signifies not only improved healthcare access, but also a new chapter of health and well-being for the residents of Ward 18 and its neighboring areas.

Access to Mt. Wilhelm in Simbu province, a renowned tourist destination in Papua New Guinea (PNG), has been restored for vehicles following more than a month of closure due to the aftermath of natural disasters on March 12th. Local company EC Civil Works played a pivotal role in clearing multiple landslips along the Kundiawa-Gembogl road, notably constructing a new bypass at Kangrie village, a few kilometers beyond Gembogl Station towards Mt. Wilhelm. The road closure was a consequence of the destruction caused by the natural disasters, which included the washing away of a bridge approximately 40 meters downstream during a major flood. The flood also resulted in the destruction of several homes, leaving numerous families homeless. Mr. Emmanuel Merimba Kenwai, Managing Director of EC Civil Works, spearheaded the emergency road clearance efforts along the Kundiawa-Gembogl Road, utilizing company resources without formal funding. Kenwai emphasized the importance of restoring access to facilitate the flow of government services to the affected communities, citing his personal connection to the region as a driving factor. Kenwai expressed gratitude to the Simbu Provincial Disaster Team, led by Provincial Administrator Mr. John Punde and Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Chris Mondo, along with Mr. Gand Mond, the Provincial Disaster Team Leader for Kundiawa-Gembogl. Their provision of fuel drums facilitated the road clearance efforts. Additionally, Kenwai thanked Noah Kool, the Governor of Simbu Province, and the Marape-Roso Government for their response to the natural disasters in Simbu. The impact of the March 12th disasters has been extensive, affecting hundreds of farmers, small businesses, and essential services such as tourism, health, and education in North Simbu. Notably, Betty's Trout Farm, the largest commercial trout farm in the country supplying fish for Coral Sea Hotels in PNG, faced significant disruptions. Local community leader Steven Dangir expressed appreciation for EC Civil Works' efforts in creating the new bypass at Kangrie, highlighting its importance in ensuring the continuity of services for the community. Meanwhile, the owner of Mt. Wilhelm Trout Farm Ms. Betty Higgins, expressed gratitude to all involved parties for their role in restoring access She suffered losses due to canceled bookings for tourists and commercial fish orders during the period of natural disasters.

Following through with her dream of becoming a lawyer, 25 year old Shanice Paraka finally graduated from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) School of Law (SOL) on Tuesday, 23rd April, 2024. In her speech as the Student respondent of SOL, she shared her life experience to remind inspire and encourage her fellow graduands. Ms. Paraka said that she had always wanted to be a lawyer like her father although she did not exactly know what a lawyer did except that lawyers wore black and white and went to court. She spoke of how the power of self-belief and the power of God were principle beliefs that had carried her through her four years in law school. “These principle beliefs have played a significant role in my life as foundations for my achievements and success in the past four years. You can only better yourselves if you face your fears head on.” She spoke of how she was never a student who would stand out in class or answer a question even when she knew the right answer. “I was fortunate to be born into a privileged life where I had opportunities at my finger-tips so I didn’t have to work so hard.” “I didn’t understand the value of failure, education, of knowledge and its application and this made me complacent in my academic performance. I didn’t want to be seen but I always knew deep down that I could do better and be better.” She was rather shy in her primary and secondary school days which had caused her to miss out on certain opportunities, but she expressed her happiness at finally achieving her dream of being a lawyer. “I am happy that I can proudly stand here today. I made sure to redeem myself from the wasted opportunities I once let slide through my fingers.” “Seize all the opportunities that this life has to offer.” She stated that she graduated high school in 2016 but due to issues that her family was facing in those years, she moved to Baiyer River Village in WHP and took a three-year gap year. It was then that she had realized the power of education and decided to pursue her dream of being a lawyer. “This time around, I was eager, determined and hungry to make my dream of becoming a lawyer, a reality.” “After seeing the humanitarian work that my father had done, I began to understand the true power of education and how impactful it can be. When knowledge is applied, it creates opportunities for yourself.” She highlighted that law school was a huge task and that they each had their personal struggles and sacrifices so she thanked the parents, guardians and families there for their support as she congratulated her cohort for making it this far and harvesting the fruits of their hard work. “Congratulations to all of us. We all come from different walks of life, with your own reasons for your desire to attain this law degree. Declare the Lord’s promise in Jeremiah 29:11 on your lives.” Young Ms. Paraka also attributed her successes to her loving father and former prominent lawyer Mr. Paul Paraka, whom she said has supported her through her journey. “They say that behind every confident daughter, there is always a loving father and I can testify to that,” she proudly said. Meanwhile, Ms. Paraka was also awarded the Dean’s Award for the School of Law for her excellent performance.

Fifty-six women hailing from the Coastal Pipeline Landowner Women’s Association (CPLWA), situated within the Ramu Nickel Project vicinity, celebrated a significant milestone as they received their financial literacy training certificates. The event took place at Erima Primary School recently, marking the culmination of their educational journey in the Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government (LLG) at Rai Coast District, within the Madang Province. Initiated late last year, the training was part of the "Lukatim Graun Program" facilitated by the Ramu NiCo Management (MCC) Limited (RNML), specifically for the CPLWA Marika Zone members. Albert Tobe, Deputy General Manager of Ramu NiCo Community Affairs, expressed satisfaction at CPLWA's participation in the financial literacy training. He emphasized the importance of such training in equipping landowners to manage their royalty portions effectively and encouraged financial institutions to streamline lending requirements for small-scale entrepreneurs. Mrs. Jayanne Malai, the Financial Literacy Program Course Trainer, highlighted the long-standing support provided by Ramu NiCo to CPLWA, particularly in promoting the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Malai envisioned a future where CPLWA members would diversify their investments beyond reliance on royalty payments, thereby securing their financial stability even after the mine's eventual closure. Ward Councilor, Garry Kulonga of Ward 13, under the Astrolabe Bay Rural LLG Council, commended the CPLWA for their proactive approach to economic empowerment. He acknowledged the association's successful ventures into various businesses such as dinghies, trade stores, and fuel sales, emphasizing the natural aptitude of women in managing household finances. Furthermore, Kulonga emphasized the significance of financial literacy training, particularly for illiterate women in rural villages, enabling them to access financial assistance and foster personal and community growth. He lauded CPLWA's continuous progress and underscored the importance of the certificates received by the women, as they serve as prerequisites for engaging with financial institutions. Meanwhile, the ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of these women, but also symbolized a step towards sustainable economic development and empowerment within the CPLWA community.

Aromas of burnt rubber, the screeching of drills and people in all manner of racing paraphernalia painstakingly working on mind-blowingly expensive cars. These were some of the sights and sounds that confronted us as we entered the drivers’ garages at the Taupo 400 V8 Supercars Championship last weekend. As a sports journalist for PMN News, it’s important to cover a wide range of sports and while rugby stadiums are familiar environments - racing tracks, not so much. But late last year a colleague challenged me to look into an up and coming athlete who was going to be the first-ever Pacific driver to compete in Australasia's elite motorsport competition. The first thing we asked Jaxon was his reaction to becoming the first-ever Pacific Supercars driver. “It’s an amazing feeling, I have a very different upbringing being half-Fijian but born in New Zealand and adopted from birth. Without my parents I wouldn’t have the opportunity for half of what I’ve achieved. “To be representing my Pacific heritage here at the Supercars Championship and it’s a special feeling to know I’m the first but the only at the moment. “Hopefully I can inspire at least one other person to shoot for their dreams and end up doing the same thing as me.” [caption id="attachment_51515" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Evans' racing helmet with the Australian, Samoan, Fijian and New Zealand flags.[/caption] Evans was adopted at birth to John and Deb Evans, a small family from Levin who were heavily involved with motorsports. A year prior to adopting Jaxon, John and Deb were gifted a Fijian baby, Joshua, and five years later, they adopted a Samoan child, Molly to their family. Given all three children have gone on to achieve success in sports, Evans says his family’s support has been instrumental for them to reach their potential. “My brother is full Fijian and my sister is Samoan and they’re very good at sports as well, so certainly in our younger careers we were off doing everything we could, always provided the opportunity to chase our dreams in any sport we tried. “My sister actually played for the Samoan under 21 netball team, and my brother was part of the Crusaders academy here in New Zealand. “We all had our strengths and weaknesses and I’m just happy to be doing what I’m doing. Even more so thankful to have the support from my siblings and family around to keep supporting me on this journey.” Evans placed 10th of 24 cars in the Taupo 400 at the weekend, a great result for him and his team. Becoming the first ever driver of Pacific heritage to compete in the sport, Evans expressed huge gratitude to the Pacific community. “I appreciate all of the support and I hope I’m doing everyone proud from the Pacific nations. Not only my family but my extended family too, and hope I can make them proud! “And at least inspire the odd couple of people to dabble in the sport a little more, or learn a bit more because there’s plenty of jobs not only as drivers but mechanics and engineers too. “It’s a very cool environment to be part of, the opportunities are endless and you can also go overseas with it.” And Evans hopes to one day revisit Fiji, a place he dearly “loves”. “Definitely, I haven’t been back to Fiji in a long time, we visited with my brother's family and it was a place we’d go to quite often in our younger days. “It’s certainly a place I want to go back to get in touch with the roots, it’s a beautiful country. I love it and miss it a lot.” Source: PMN.Com.NZ