Changes are on the way for the PNG Ports Corporation Limited Rabaul Port as it is earmarked to undergo significant rehabilitation work that is set to bolster it resilience to climate and natural disasters while further progressing the State entity’s drive towards greener port operations across its network. This follows the signing of the Declaration of Intent on the sustainable rehabilitation of ports infrastructure agreement between the European Union (EU), the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and European Investment Bank (EIB), the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and PNG Ports in July 2023. The Declaration of Intent, according to a statement, shapes the collaboration between partners to strengthen PNG Ports as a modern, reliable, safe, and sustainable State-Owned entity, whilst improving maritime trade through sustainable port infrastructure rehabilitation. As part of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, a total of €75 million (K305 million) has been allocated to upgrade the Rabaul port. This blended financial package will cater for the port’s feasibility studies, dredging, upgrade of land-based facilities, wharf extension and repair works. Additionally, in a recent meeting with representatives of the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) in Port Moresby, Officer in Charge of PNG Ports, Ian Hayden-Smart stated that the signing of the Declaration of Intent and the rehabilitation of the Rabaul Port represents a significant stride towards the sustainable development of PNG’s maritime infrastructure. “The Rabaul Port Project is in sync with the PNG Ports broader investment strategy for a number of our ports, as detailed in the 30-year Infrastructure Master Plan, and I again acknowledge DFAT through the AIFFP for the allocated funding for the other ports set to undergo significant upgrades.” Hayden-Smart further stated that like all Maritime Ports around the country, the Port of Rabaul is the gateway for trade in East New Britain Province and is important that PNG Ports ensures this port is upgraded and ready to meet the maritime trade demands. “The Rabaul Port rehabilitation project is aligned with the PNG Government’s push for the implementation of green initiatives and more resilience to the global effects of climate change at our Ports.” “PNG Ports is committed to upgrade its port facilities to be fit for purpose, sustainable and climate and disaster resilient to meet the demands in maritime trade, and this support and collaboration with EU, EIB and DFAT will greatly assist in realizing this.” Meanwhile, following a number of collaborative meetings held between Agence Française de Développement and PNG Ports, a feasibility study for the Rabaul Port, carried out by DT Global, has commenced. Upon completion of the detailed design and tender process, it is anticipated that construction will start in July 2025.

The Kumul Petroleum PNG Lewas, riding on the euphoria of last week’s win against Zimbabwe, received crushing news this week – with the devastating loss of team captain Kaia Arua on Thursday afternoon. Cricket fans, family and media were stunned to hear the sad announcement Thursday afternoon from Cricket PNG CEO Richard Done. In his brief statement, Mr Done said: “I'm very sad to announce to you that our current player and most recent Lewas captain, Kaia Arua, passed away at Port Moresby General Hospital at midday today.” “Our sincere condolences and love go to her family, including Coach John Ovia and Lucy Ovia, who have both been long-serving staff here at Cricket PNG.” “Kaia had a remarkable playing career with the Lewas and at the right time, we will be recognizing that contribution.” “In memory of Kaia Arua.” In Zimbabwe, with a time difference of about six hours to PNG, it was still morning time for the rest of the PNG Lewas when they got the shocking news. The Lewas, who are still out on tour, held a solemn ceremony to farewell and remember their captain, whose favourite shirt number 23 was laid out in her memory. According to Cricket PNG, this is also the number her favourite cricketer, the late Australian Shane Warne had also worn.   At this time, no further information has been disclosed to the media.   Mr Done says: “We wish to respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time, and we will release more details as approved by her family.”

After the Storm's first-choice spine took to the field together for the first time since July 17, 2022, Melbourne are hoping for an extended run with their four star playmakers fit and firing together. With all four taking to the field against Brisbane following Cameron Munster's return from a "baffling" groin injury, Munster, alongside Harry Grant, Jahrome Hughes and Ryan Papenhuyzen played their part in the quartet to perfection as Melbourne snuck home in a thriller against the Broncos. “It’s exciting,” Munster told NRL.com after he played in the Storm’s thrilling 34-32 win at AAMI Park. “I wouldn’t say it fits like a shoe, or fits like a glove at the moment. We’re probably a size 10, and we’re putting on a size 8 shoe – so it’s a little bit tight there! “In saying that, we’re moving and building. We’re not going to play a grand final in Round 4 or 5. We want to keep building at the start of the year.” Source: NRL.Com

Police Commissioner David Manning has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum as of Thursday this week to illegal squatters in Porgera Valley, warning them to vacate or face forced removal. He said the deployment of additional joint security forces over the past days is to enforce the directive. Commissioner Manning emphasized that these squatters have unlawfully occupied land without rightful claim, exploiting the area during the mine closure to commit crimes and disrupt peace. In a statement, he said this is a final chance for squatters and troublemakers to depart voluntarily. “Following consultation with stakeholders, including the Porgera Valley community, provincial and district administrations, private business, and National Government agencies, police have no other option but to remove the illegal squatters who are threatening peace and good order.” “These troublemakers are illegally taking up private lands to make illicit profit and they don’t care who they hurt or what they damage.” “This greed is harming the businesses and communities of the Porgera Valley.” “This is a matter that crosses several areas of sectoral responsibility and as such is a whole-of-government response.” He said while police are taking a firm, but fair approach to evicting illegal settlers, partners such as the provincial and national government agencies will be taking a firm but fair approach to shady businesses and individuals who enable illegal settlers to exploit these communities. “My message is clear: If you do not have lawful employment or residence in the Porgera Valley, you should not be there.” “If you are supplying to, buying from, or enabling illegal squatters, your activities will be put under the microscope by every relevant Government agency.” “I warn that if any person seeks to harbor, hide, aid or abet those who are to be removed or operating illegal enterprises, they also will face charges. “The Porgera Valley is home to both communities and critical economic infrastructure.” “These illegal squatters and their disrespect for the law, for communities, and private businesses, pose a risk to security and good order.”

Three suspects were caught on camera this week leaving the Oshoma Business Consultant Institute (OBCI) with stolen accessories, getting into their getaway vehicle and departing the Gordons Business Centre parking lot. Two took their time to enter the OBCI building pretending to have interest in school matters only to access the building to scope the interior before taking out their firearm and demanded all the money, while the third - the driver was parked outside. Since the building is a school, no money was to be found, the two criminals raided the rooms and grabbed what valuables were insight and leaving the building. They stole six laptops, two tablets and three phones and stepped into their getaway vehicle departing the scene. The Three school staff of OBCI despite the gunpoint, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ms. Binta Abubakar, Teacher Ms. Rita Abubakar and receptionist Ms. Norista Sambu during the incident remained calm and cooperated only to protect their students, and thankfully no harm was done to the students and staff. After the thieves departed, the three (3) staff members pursued the vehicle only to witness it depart into the main road, however CCTV camera were able to capture the vehicle and model and plate number. CEO Ms. Abubakar remained thankful for no harm done to the students and staff but was disappointed from the poor security performance in assisting the capture of these culprits. Furthermore, she stressed that Boroko Police has been informed and urges all major and minor schools and business houses to remain vigilant to avoid such events in the near future.

In a newly released paper, Dr. Tomas Wangi, a Senior Research Fellow at the National Research Institute, has raised significant concerns regarding the reliability of Papua New Guinea's recent inflation figures. Dr. Wangi's paper, made public today, delves into whether these figures accurately represent the fluctuations in the prices of goods and services across the country. According to Dr. Wangi, the National Statistical Office (NSO) is tasked with the responsibility of gathering and disseminating official statistics, which includes vital economic indicators such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and Balance of Payments (BOP). Of particular importance, the CPI serves as a key measure of inflation by monitoring changes in the prices of goods and services consumed by urban households. Dr. Wangi's analysis reveals significant doubts about the accuracy of Papua New Guinea's inflation data, citing recent figures that have unexpectedly shown low inflation rates. He points to outdated weighting methods and sampling procedures as potential factors that may be distorting the reliability of the CPI. One key concern highlighted by Dr. Wangi is the age of the survey used to determine the fourth CPI base year for Papua New Guinea, conducted almost 14 years ago. Since then, expenditure patterns among urban households may have evolved, potentially impacting the CPI calculation. Additionally, sampling errors and reporting inaccuracies further compound the challenge of obtaining accurate inflation data. To address these issues, Dr. Wangi proposes several recommendations. He suggests that the NSO conducts a new Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) to update the CPI base year and improve sampling techniques. Furthermore, Dr. Wangi emphasizes the importance of providing additional training to field officers involved in data collection efforts. By implementing these measures, Dr. Wangi believes that Papua New Guinea can enhance the reliability of its inflation figures and gain a better understanding of the country's economic landscape. This, in turn, could lead to more informed policy decisions and strategies for addressing economic challenges. His timely recommendation comes as NSO prepares for PNG’s 5th National Population Census which takes place later in the year using the 2021 theme: “Be counted! No one left behind” According to the National Statistical Office, PNG, like many other countries, where the cost of a census is very high, censuses are conducted every 10 years - to date, PNG has conducted four (4) censuses since 1980, 1990, 2000 and 2011. The 2021 census was not conducted as PNG was affected by COVID-19.

A joint decision has been made between the Papua New Guinea Rugby League Competition (PNGRLC) and the Agmark Gurias to relocate the franchise to Port Moresby for the opening period of the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season. According to a statement, this decision was made as it has become clear that due to the current renovations of the Tokua airport and its runway has resulted in the inability to ensure consistent travel for both the Gurias and visiting teams’ travel. A staged travel in and out of Kokopo was considered, however, the cascading impact on the players, potential delay, and on-going uncertainty greatly influenced this decision. Tony Archer, General Manager of Pathways and Performance thanked the club’s administration for raising their concerns and stated that they have been able to work on a solution for the predicament they are currently in. “We have been able to work closely with them to achieve an interim solution that is in the best interest of the club, its players and the competition.” “The relocation will have some impact on matches in our first few rounds. We have worked with the clubs affected by this change, and we are confident that the impact will be minimal.” “Our ultimate objective is for the Gurias’ fans to see their team perform at home games in the second part of the season.” Furthermore, ENB Agmark Gurias Chairman, Steven Nightingale expressed that it was a difficult decision to make but that it was for the betterment of the national competition. “We had to make the call to relocate to Port Moresby. This will allow us to not only start the competition on time, but also ensure the well-being of all players, both our team and those traveling.” “We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Rapopo Plantation Resort, the Sanctuary Hotel and Mr. James Pang for their incredible generosity in providing accommodation for our team during our stay in Port Moresby. Their support is invaluable, and we cannot thank them enough.”

Schools in Madang Province are having severe delays in receiving vital government funds, which affects their capacity to give children with essential supplies. Kusbau Primary School's deputy principal, Mrs Biel Towili, discussed the difficulties her school is facing in an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG today. She stated concerns around the delays in receiving the components and essential supplies that were bought using the Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS) which was supposed to cater for necessary resources for students' education. In 2022, the Government has agreed to cover tuition fees, relieving parents of financial burdens, while also implementing guidelines for project fees and other associated costs, ensuring access to education for all children without discrimination based on fee payment status. However, the components and materials that were purchased using the subsidiary funds have not yet arrived, putting schools in a dire situation even with the subsidies deposited. "The funds have been deposited, but the components with the supplies or materials were not supplied since the beginning, and now certainly it's ending.” "We are using that money deposited to purchase those things to assist the students, but not fully as is expected." The impact of these delays is extensive, with schools struggling to meet the needs of their students. Mrs. Towili gave Kusbau Primary School as an example, where vital classroom tasks including assessments and activities are hampered by a shortage of A4 papers. "We haven't received those cartons of A4 papers, and we are working on what we can get from that GTFS money that has been deposited.” "But we are not fully helping the students with what we have received because papers are needed for assessments, activities, and there's a lot of things to do with the A4 papers." The situation is exacerbated by the fact that teachers are often left to make do with limited resources, going above and beyond to support their students despite the challenges. Mrs. Towili emphasized the dedication of teachers but stressed the need for immediate action from the government to address the funding delays. "As someone who is an administrator, I am a Deputy Principal that is currently on the grounds witnessing these issues, I would say here that the government should look into that," Mrs. Towili urged. "Before the term starts, I would suggest that the government should deliver all the resources during the term holidays before the second term." “To guarantee that every child has access to the tools they require to succeed in their education, immediate action is required as Kusbau Primary School continues to struggle with the effects of these delays.”

Team Black Bass, captained by Norman Vanua will look towards a win in this round of matches in the Men's ISUZU T20 SMASH at Port Moresby's Amini cricket grounds in Boroko. Black Bass is last on this Cricket PNG-sanctioned domestic tournament’s standing board, with only 1 point after losing all their three matches in the Group Stage Round 1 which began on Easter Good Friday, March 29th until Monday, April 1st. They take on the Lega Siaka-led Cassowaries, who are on 4 points after winning two out of their three matches. Cassowaries share the top spot with Mudmen, captained by Charles Amini. The Mudmen also lost one of their three set games during the long Easter weekend, while Mariners, on 3 points, won only one match. The cricket thrill fest continues Saturday, April 6th at 10 am with Black Bass playing Cassowaries, followed by the Mariners vs. Mudmen clash at 2 pm in the Group Stage Round 2 matches. On Sunday, April 7th, the Mariners will face off against Black Bass, while Cassowaries will take on Mudmen. The action continues on Monday, April 8th, with matches between Mariners and Cassowaries at 10 am, and Black Bass against Mudmen at 2 pm. Cricket PNG CEO, Richard Done says the Final is set to be played on April 13th. “The MEN’S ISUZU T20 SMASH is a great lead-up for our elite cricketers who will proudly represent Papua New Guinea internationally, with the Barramundis attending the 20-team ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies and Garamuts U19 men’s team competing in the ICC EAP Division 2 Qualifier in Apia, Samoa, within the first half of 2024.” Tickets are available at the gate for K2.00 for adults, and free for children and students with I.D cards. “We’ve deliberately kept the ticket cost low to encourage people to come to Amini Park and watch the action live.” “Grandstand tickets are available at K5.00 after general entry to the ground (on a first come/first served basis).” Meantime, the Cricket PNG said the Women’s T20 SMASH competition draws and teams will be announced before their start date of Saturday, April 20th.

In an effort to promote family planning and contraceptive methods in the nation, Marie Stopes PNG is providing Vasectomy and Circumcision services at their centres in Port Moresby from 2nd-5th April and on the 8th-12th in its Lae centres. Marie stopes has been operating in PNG for over 17 years since its establishment in 2006 and has been working towards advocating and providing family planning methods in the nation. Vasectomy is a part of the family planning methods that they advocate men on since unlike temporary methods that require ongoing management, a Vasectomy offers a one-time solution to prevent pregnancy. That is according to Ivy Karue, Marie Stopes PNG’s Digital Communications and Events Coordinator in an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG today. She stated that their organization has been providing Vasectomy and Circumcision services since its establishment. “We used to provide Vasectomy and Circumcisions, but we have been without a trained provider to carry out the procedure.” A Vasectomy is permanent and is one of the most effective kinds of birth control and while over the years a few men come to the clinic for the service. Karue stated that there has been an encouraging increase in the number of males that come in to the clinic in recent years for this service. “We encourage males over the age of 50 with families to get vasectomies but we discourage young men as they may still have hopes to build a family one day.” Additionally, Marie Stopes is advocating on the benefits of the circumcision services that they provide as a way to advocate against STIs. Karue spoke on the importance of circumcision as well saying that it can help prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases and reduce other infections. “Circumcision can prevent STIs as well as reduce the risk of other infections. It’s all about hygiene-when the foreskin is removed, there are less dirt and fluids that sits in there and it allows for the penis to be easily cleaned to reduce the risk of STIs and other infections.” “Marie Stopes provide Vasectomy and Circumcision services in all our centres within the country. It is not compulsory, but men are encouraged to have it done.” Furthermore, she stated that at the clinic, men with children are encouraged to get a vasectomy as it is easier and not much pressure will be placed on the female partner to undergo any contraceptive methods. Men are encouraged to walk in to the Marie Stopes Center at Ume Street, Gordons and book your appointment or if you have any questions, you can reach them on their Facebook page or on WhatsApp 72161344. Other services provided are penile corrective procedures that do repair work because of failed fluid injectors sold on the streets. “The most protective method of contraception are condoms so it’s better to use them and abstain.” “Do take note that having a vasectomy does not safe guard you from getting infected with HIV or other STIs.” Meanwhile Marie Stopes PNG is currently recruiting male service providers so that they can have a daily intake of vasectomy and circumcision patients

The Infrastructure Support Services (ISS) Rewind Shop at Ok Tedi Mining Limited recently celebrated a great milestone when they presented seven Recognition of Prior Learning Certificates to the first batch of their Qualified Motor Rewinders produced by the mine. After almost two years of rigorous training and assessments, these individuals have successfully acquired their certification from the Queensland Technical and Further Education Institution (TAFE), under the guidance of experienced mentors and instructors from OTML’s Training and Capacity Development Department (T& CD) and Queensland TAFE. Motor rewinding is a critical aspect that services all operational areas of business and each recipient demonstrated a certain determination to expand their knowledge and skills in this field. “This journey was marked by hours of commitment, practical application, and hands-on experience, all aimed at mastering motor rewinding.” “This achievement is a testament to OTML investing in its workforce, empowering employees to reach their full potential, and promoting a culture of continuous learning and development.” Manager of Infrastructure Support Services, Akolo Kotange, acknowledged the great support from the T&CD in successfully seeing the seven graduate. “It is part of OTML’s vision and obligation to upskill more Papua New Guinean’s so we produce a qualified and trained workforce for the nation who will continue to contribute to the growing economy.” T&CD Manager, Ian Strachan stated that as PNG is yet to establish a formal Training Program for the Motor Rewind Trade. “This program provides the recipients with the skills and knowledge to complete Electrical Motor repairs safely and efficiently and empowers them to impart those skills onto our trainees.” Meanwhile with mine life extended in principle to 2050, OTML will continue to invest in training by creating sustainable career paths and contributing to the development of skills to its workforce, the local communities, and the people of Papua New Guinea.

The Department of Education Secretary, Dr. Uke Kombra and Chief Executive Officer of PNG Sports Foundation, Albert Veratau both signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening the relationship between both organizations in a brief ceremony in Port Moresby on Wednesday. “Under the MOU both organizations will promote and support Physical Education (PE) in all schools throughout Papua New Guinea.” “This ensures the promotion of the ‘Go Rural to Go Global Sports Development Program’ by introducing Sports Nursery development skills in primary schools to compliment the teaching of Physical Education.” “It will also be used to promote sports leadership training program in secondary schools to produce coaches, technical officials and sports administrators.” He said the MOU will specifically identify the scope of services to be provided, establish the authorized agency as well as decision makers or owners in this undertaking as well as financial and human resources that is required for the provision of services. PNGSF will assist and promote Physical Education, Sports Nursery and Leadership Program in schools’ sports programs. “PNGSF will facilitate the ‘Go Rural to Go Global (GRtGG) Sports Nursery’ program in Primary school targeting age groups from 6–16-year-old students and will also provide appropriate Sports Leadership training for secondary school students.” The GRtGG and Building World Class Leadership are two strategies introduced over the past year by PNGSF to improve sports development in PNG, aimed at monetizing sports so that it becomes an industry that can effectively contribute towards the economy of the country. “The leadership program is also aimed at developing good citizenship values and other nation-building benefits for our future generations as relevant tangible outcomes from GRtGG.” Dr. Kombra added that the Department of Education will ensure teachers’ colleges offer appropriate training to produce more PE teachers to feed into the elementary and secondary schools. “The Department is to provide teaching aids and resource booklets for the teaching and learning of PE in the schools.” “DOE is to promote inter-house sports in schools and inter-school sports carnivals in the provinces.” Additionally, an interesting feature of the MOU is the initiative to teach and learn foreign languages, an option being French, and an internationally acclaimed lingua franca which has a wide global spread.