Don Bosco Technical Secondary School in Vanimo in the West Sepik province has been transformed into a digital hub thanks to the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. This program provided the school with new computers, printers, and solar power to create a Resource Centre that is helping students, farmers, and small business owners in the region. With access to digital tools and training, the Centre is bridging the gap between rural communities and the digital world. The school was previously struggling with old and broken computers, which made it difficult to offer quality education and community training. According to Principal Ms. Majuna Chamilou, "We had only ten working computers, and up to fifty students had to share one machine. It was hard to teach, and many of our community programs couldn’t run." The school’s dedication to serving its students and the community never wavered, but the lack of equipment held them back from offering more. The introduction of the Resource Centre has completely changed the school’s ability to provide education and community support. Now equipped with 15 new computers and more technology on the way, the school is a digital hub for Vanimo. The Centre also runs on solar power, ensuring it remains functional even when power outages occur. This has been a game-changer for both students and local farmers who rely on the Centre for digital skills and business development training. Teachers at the school received specialized *Training of Trainers (ToT)* from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, equipping them with knowledge on digital skills, e-commerce, and sustainable business planning. The training has enabled them to better teach students and help local farmers and agri- preneurs improve their businesses using digital tools. The Resource Centre is not just helping students but is also empowering farmers and small business owners in the region. Farmers are learning how to use their phones for online banking, advertising products, and reaching more customers. Over 100 agri-preneurs have already attended training sessions at the Centre, learning about e-commerce, agrometeorology services, and financial literacy. The impact is clear: local farmers are more connected, productive, and ready to grow their businesses in new ways. The school’s curriculum has also improved thanks to the Centre. With more computers, teachers can deliver the Standard Based Curriculum (SBC), which focuses on digital literacy. This ensures that students are getting a modern education that prepares them for a future in a digital world. Looking ahead, Don Bosco Technical Secondary School plans to expand the Resource Centre further, adding more computers and even building new labs to meet the growing demand. The school is also exploring ways to generate income from the Centre, such as offering printing services and internet access to the community. These efforts aim to ensure the Centre remains financially sustainable for years to come. The EU-STREIT PNG Programme is the European Union’s largest grant-funded initiative in Papua New Guinea, focusing on improving economic opportunities in rural areas, especially for cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries. By providing digital training and infrastructure, the program is helping rural communities in East Sepik and West Sepik provinces thrive. In the words of Principal Majuna, “The Resource Centre has brought new life to our school and our community. We are helping people gain skills they never thought they could have.”

The Rabaul Page Park Market in East New Britain (ENB) province has received a K150,000 boost for the construction of a cool storage facility. This funding follows a Service Level Agreement signed between the ENB Provincial Market Authority and the Rabaul District Administration, which outlines responsibilities and funding management for the project. At the signing, the cheque was presented to the the ENB Provincial Market Authority for the construction of the facility, with Manager for ENB Provincial Market Authority Peter Lapim, who stressed the importance of cool storage facilities. The facility aims to enhance food production while maintaining the freshness and quality of produce. Lapim said the facility will reduce food spoilage, noting that it would help hardworking sellers maintain their produce and save costs, and safeguard consumers as well. “We want to create a good link between our farmers and consumers through effective marketing pathway, and this is our way forward,” said Lapim. Acting District Administrator, Freddy Lemeki praised the partnership, committing to continue supporting economic projects that improve markets and local living standards. "With the cool storage facility, farmers will not have to worry about bringing their fresh produce to and from the market but can store it in the coolers for the next day,” Lemeki stated. This new facility is expected to complement chillers being installed at the fish market in the coming months.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape announced recently that the Government's Position Paper on the Wafi-Golpu Mine in Morobe Province has been submitted to Joint Venture Partners, Newmont and Harmony. He said the Government is now waiting for a response from the two companies before moving forward with the Mine Development Contract (MDC) and Special Mining Lease (SML). This announcement came after a meeting held on September 6th in Port Moresby city. Key attendees included State Negotiating Team (SNT) Chairman Dairi Vele, Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso, Morobe Governor Luther Wenge, and Community Development Minister and Huon Gulf MP Jason Peter. The SNT has been negotiating with the two joint venture partners to ensure Papua New Guinea secures a fair deal from the Wafi-Golpu project. Prime Minister Marape highlighted the importance of securing key benefits such as a 30% equity stake for PNG, financing for that equity, 3% royalty, local content requirements, and more. Marape emphasized the need to avoid any delays once the SML is issued, stating, “As we prepare to release the SML, work must start immediately, rather than being delayed as we have seen in other projects.” He also mentioned that the project is nearing its final stages, with only one or two meetings left before the MDC can be signed and the SML issued. Newmont and Harmony received the SNT’s recommendations on August 8, 2024, and the Government is waiting for their response. “We want to make sure that we get the total 55 per cent economic benefits we want to get out of the project,” Marape stated, referring to the Government's goals for the project, which is expected to operate for over 40 years. The Prime Minister stressed that lessons had been learned from other mining projects, such as Lihir Mine in New Ireland, which does not pay corporate tax. In response to Marape’s comments about the Lihir Mine, Newmont, which is part of the Wafi-Golpu joint venture, issued a statement: “Newmont is proud to be delivering on all tax obligations in PNG." "During the first six months of 2024, Lihir Gold Limited paid K58.5 million in corporate taxes." "From 2013 to 2023, Lihir contributed K441.5 million in corporate taxes to the PNG Government, out of K3.2 billion in total taxes, levies, and royalties.” The terms for the Wafi-Golpu project are laid out in a Framework Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in April 2023, and outlines key benefits for PNG, including a 55% economic stake in the project, 30% equity for the State, with 10% carried equity for Morobe Province and local landowners, and a 3% royalty with no deductions. Other key provisions include an additional US$394 million committed by Newmont and Harmony for social and community infrastructure, and a requirement for over 80% local content during construction and operations.

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird expressed deep gratitude following Pope Francis' recent visit to Papua New Guinea. His message comes as the East Sepik province investigates and deals with its recent violence, and Enga Province recovers from ongoing tribal conflicts. Following the Pope’s departure, Governor Bird acknowledged the impact of the visit, and in a social media post wrote: "Thank you Pope Franciscus. You brought a ray of hope, a breath of fresh air to our country these past few days. The feeling was in the air. Our country is so wracked with pain, violence, corruption, and negativity." Pope Francis, during his visit, called for an end to tribal fighting and encouraged Papua New Guineans to unite in promoting peace, love, and unity. He emphasized the importance of cooperation to halt the ongoing violence plaguing the nation, referring to Papua New Guineans as a "smiling people" despite their many challenges. Bird praised the Pope’s humility and compassion, stating: "Your simplicity, your compassion, your humility, and your humanity were felt by everyone, and it was refreshing." Governor Bird also highlighted the Pope’s strong stand against violence: "While you serve the Most High God, your love for humanity, your message to the world for peace, your strong stand against violence is appreciated." On behalf of the people of East Sepik, especially the Catholic faithful, Bird conveyed gratitude for over 100 years of Catholic service in the region, adding, “May God bless you and grant you long life in your vocation. Maulu, Maulu.”

As the Papua New Guinea Parliament prepares to resume on Thursday, September 12, the nation braces for an active Vote of No Confidence (VONC) against Prime Minister James Marape. The Opposition, led by Kiriwina Goodenough MP Douglas Tomureisa, has officially nominated Finschaffen MP and former Finance Minister Rainbo Paita, as its Alternate Prime Minister, aiming to form a new government, a few days before the country celebrates its 49th Independence. The Opposition currently claims 35 Members of Parliament, and political horse-trading is expected as both sides vie for the numbers needed to secure victory. The VONC is a crucial moment in PNG politics, and the results could shift the balance of power within the country's government. Rainbo Paita, once a key figure in the Marape-Rosso Government, is now leading the charge for a change in leadership. He brings with him a mix of seasoned MPs and key figures from across the political spectrum, including prominent politicians such as former Prime Ministers Peter O'Neill, Sir Julius Chan and vocal anti-corruption politicians such as Allan Bird, Bryan Kramer, and Deputy Opposition leader, James Nomane. Their alliance covers all four regions of the country - the opposition bloc consists of 12 MPs from Southern, 11 from Highlands, nine from Momase, and three from New Guinea Islands. Despite the coalition's current numbers, they still need to secure additional support to achieve the 56 votes required for the motion to pass and for Paita to assume the role of Prime Minister. Prime Minister Marape remains confident that his Pangu Pati and its coalition partners will maintain their hold on power. Speaking earlier, he expressed his belief in the strength of his party’s internal unity, asserting that Pangu's MPs will remain loyal. Marape's government is also banking on its existing coalition members to withstand the pressure and retain their numbers when Parliament resumes. The political landscape is in flux, with negotiations ongoing, and both sides are working behind the scenes to secure crucial votes. With the VONC set for Thursday, the coming days will be crucial for determining the future of Papua New Guinea’s leadership. All eyes are now on the political chessboard, as the opposition attempts to oust Prime Minister Marape, while the government seeks to reaffirm its mandate amidst growing political tension, which has remained quiet these last few days with the historic Papal Visit in the country.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape, on behalf of the country, has shared his sadness, over the death of businessman James Edward Seeto, who passed away on September 6, 2024. The Prime Minister says this is a profound loss of another great business leader in the country, which comes so soon after the death of Sir Soekandar Tjandra, the found of the Papindo Group of Companies in August this year. When extending his deepest condolences to the family the pioneer PNG-Chinese businessman, James Seeto, the Prime Minister described him as the visionary founder of the Seeto Kui Group of Companies, who first arrived in Salamaua, Morobe, in 1938, following in his father’s footsteps. James was the son of Seeto Kiu. His family, when announcing the passing, said the late James Edward Seeto, CSM MBE, was the Governing Director of the Seeto Kui Group of companies. In the announcement, his family said he passed away peacefully. "James passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love and warmth of his family," the announcement read. It went on to state that, "He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather," and that the family was "so proud of the incredible legacy he leaves behind." James Seeto's family started the Seeto Kui Group, a big multi-million-kina company in PNG that employs a lot of Papua New Guineas. “On behalf of our nation, I offer my heartfelt sympathies to the Seeto family. The legacy that James Seeto and his family built through Seeto Kui is remarkable, with the company employing over 2, 500 people and contributing to the growth of our country since 1938," Prime Minister Marape said. "I encourage all Papua New Guineans, following the passing of James Seeto and Sir Soekandar Tjandra, to draw inspiration from these two exemplary business leaders and work diligently to grow and strengthen businesses in our country." "Seeto Kui is more than a business—it is a symbol of what is possible when vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to one's country come together. From its humble beginnings to its position today as a multi-million Kina enterprise spanning grocery, hardware, construction, and many other sectors, Seeto Kui’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and dedication to Papua New Guinea.” The Prime Minister praised the Seeto family for their unwavering dedication to reinvesting in PNG, creating jobs, and fostering local growth, rather than transferring profits offshore. “Their investment in projects like the Food Mart Supermarket in Lae is a testament to their belief in the potential of our people and our economy,” he added. James Seeto’s journey began in 1938 when he, along with his mother and sister, joined their father in Salamaua. After a series of relocations due to wartime events, including a brief evacuation to Australia, the family returned to Lae in 1948. Despite humble beginnings, Seeto Kui founded his first trade store in Lae’s China Town area with only 100 Australian Pounds in his pocket from war compensation. James Seeto took over the family business in the early 1950s and transformed it into one of PNG’s most enduring business icons. "His faith in Papua New Guinea, from its earliest days, is something we honor and will never forget. James Seeto’s life and work are reminders of the strength and impact of community centred leadership," Prime Minister Marape concluded. The Seeto family said that the late James' "life was marked by kindness, generosity and an unwavering commitment to his community and the country." "We will miss him dearly, more than words can express, and our lives will never be the same without him." "Our family is sincerely grateful for your love and support during this difficult time and will share details of his memorial service in the coming days." "May our father, grand father and great-grandfather rest in eternal peace."

The Gulf Provincial Police Command (GPPC) is under intense scrutiny following a stern warning issued by National and Supreme Court judge, Justice Nicholas Miviri. Addressing a large turnout at Malalaua Police Station this week, the judge summoned the Police Commander Southern and Gulf Provincial Police Commander to answer for rising complaints of police misconduct. Judge Miviri’s message was unequivocal: any illegal behaviour by police officers must lead to immediate charges and suspension. He stressed that the command must uphold the Constitution and maintain the highest standards of integrity in their service. His comments followed numerous reports from local communities alleging serious police misconduct, including abuse of power and unethical behaviour during operations. Judge Miviri, a native of Moveave in Malalaua, revealed that he had personally received multiple complaints from aggrieved residents, both written and verbal. “The people of Malalaua have had enough,” he said, demanding that the Gulf police be held accountable for their actions. In his speech, the judge did not stop at criticizing the police force, but also issued a damning rebuke to the Gulf Provincial Administration, accusing officials of gross misuse and theft of public funds. “There is evidence of systematic abuse, and I will be working to bring the administration into line,” Miviri declared, further signalling that the corruption in the province extends beyond law enforcement. Gulf PPC, Jeffrey Lemb, reinforced the message, issuing a strict ultimatum to all officers: any involvement in illegal activities would result in immediate suspension and legal consequences. Judge Miviri plans to return on September 16th, Independence Day, to address the public directly, aiming to raise awareness on law and order in the district, and the province, but in the meantime, he urges Gulf Province to pursue swift action to restore accountability and trust in both the Gulf police and administration.

Lufa District has taken a significant step in addressing rural infrastructure needs, thanks to the purchase of 17 portable Lucas Mills. The initiative, funded at under K500,000 by Lufa MP and Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, Simo Kilepa, aims to build schools, churches, health centers, and other essential services in remote areas. “This specific support is going to our rural people to help build up infrastructure because accessibility is commonly by air transport, and the cost-of-service delivery is very much expensive,” said District Development Authority (DDA) CEO Demo Imara. The investment covers both the sawmills and training for 34 local youths from Mt. Michael and Unavi LLGs. These youths received hands-on instruction on how to safely operate the Lucas Mills, with two representatives selected from each ward to ensure the equipment is properly handled. Fetty Wayamo, Chief Liaison Officer to the MP, said, “Our people are grateful for the support that our MP has given them.” Once trained, the youths will be responsible for managing the mills in their communities across 12 wards in Mt. Michael and nine in Unavi LLG. This localized effort will empower villagers to sustainably harvest timber and construct vital infrastructure themselves. “This training will help us prosper and contribute to our communities’ development,” said trainee Samuel Pai, reflecting the enthusiasm shared by many participants. Although Unavi LLG is only accessible by air, the project ensures equal access to vital services. “This support will ensure service is delivered equally to all parts of Lufa,” said Executive Officer Addolph Koi.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has outlined the progress made by his government since taking office in 2019, expressing confidence in its ability to lead Papua New Guinea (PNG) through the upcoming Vote of No Confidence (VONC) and beyond. Marape acknowledged the challenges faced by the country, including a recession, COVID-19, and global inflation, but emphasized that his administration had taken significant steps to assist the people during difficult times. “We tried our best to assist our people in these trying times, whether it be in tax relief, school fees, training of police, betterment of judicial services, ensuring that no parts of the country are left behind through distribution of infrastructure funds, district development funds, provincial development funds, SME development, agriculture freight and price support, greater focus on agriculture and livestock, and the renewable sector,” Marape said. The Prime Minister explained that many of the government's initiatives would take time to produce results, likening it to farming. “What we have started will not bear fruit immediately - you do not go and chop down trees, clear bushes, plant a garden to harvest right away; it takes time to grow,” he noted. Marape urged the public to give the government time to deliver on its promises and asked for their patience until the 2027 National General Election, stressing the importance of accountability, stating, “If we go through and come out of this successfully defending our government next Thursday, give us until 2027 to govern the country, and you can then pass judgment on us.” Confident in the support of Pangu MPs and coalition partners, Marape believes his government will continue its work of reconstructing and developing the economy.

East New Britain's south coast area of Sinivit Local Level Government (LLG) in the Pomio District is full of economic potential, but it needs more help in training and technical support for farmers and fisherfolk. The region, known for cocoa and rice farming, has opportunities to grow, but people in the area need more assistance to develop these industries. Rural Development Officer (RDO) Elwin Kaival said that local farmers are showing more interest in cocoa farming due to the recent rise in prices. “With the rise in the price of cocoa, farmers have shown interest, and we have been setting up fermentaries,” Kaival said, adding that he hopes for cocoa farmers to receive their licenses this month, September. Additionally, the station has been milling rice, another important crop for the area. In an effort to boost the economic sector, a new motorbike, worth almost K10,000, was presented to Kaival this week, provided by the Pomio District Administration. It will be an important logistics tool to support Kaival’s extension work, due to the large landmass of the area. Although Kaival is responsible for agriculture and livestock, the motorbike will be used for other programs under the economic sector, including commerce and fisheries. “We are trying our best to support the officers and programs here because this area has so much potential,” said Acting LLG Manager Pennie Maroro Junior. Currently, there are accommodation issues at the Mungou station, where Kaival is based. Three officers, including Kaival, are still working from Warangoi, however, renovations are underway to improve living conditions at Mungou. “We are renovating a house at the station for the Community Development Officer, and later next year, we will renovate another house for the Fisheries Officer,” Maroro said, adding that, “We are trying our best to move the officers over because Mungou is where they are supposed to be based.” Meantime focus on road and bridge development is underway, as part of the government’s efforts to improve access to the south coast. Materials for the Merai bridge is being transported by sea, with the National Department of Works responsible for the construction of roads and bridges at Marambu and Sikut. These infrastructure projects are expected to make it easier for farmers to bring their goods to market. Maroro also announced plans to acquire two more motorbikes for the other stations at Sikut and Arabam. The community is again being urged to take care of these assets. RDO Officer in Charge in Warangoi, Lynette Samuel, called on the host wards of Gar, Lat, and others in the south coast corridor to help Kaival in his work and take good care of the motorbike. “Although this motorbike may not be a big thing like a car, it is important because the government has spent money on this asset to bring services right to the ward level,” Samuel said. Sinivit LLG covers a large area of 2,117 square kilometers with 18 wards scattered between the Inland Baining ranges and the coastline along the south coast. The government is committed to supporting this region's development through resources and infrastructure.

Police Commissioner David Manning has this morning condemned the actions of officers involved in a violent incident at Gerehu General Hospital in Port Moresby. Manning labelled the behaviour inexcusable, promising swift disciplinary action. "We need to identify those involved and ensure they are suspended," he said, adding that the officers' actions, reportedly fuelled by alcohol, were "animalistic" and unacceptable. Manning stressed that police officers must maintain professionalism, both on and off duty, and assured hospital staff that the matter is being investigated by Internal Affairs. He emphasized that such misconduct will not be tolerated under his leadership. He is now going to address the hospital staff after holding a press conference at the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Headquarters at Konedobu.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape issued a statement on Thursday evening , expressing his gratitude to the 48 Pangu Pati Members of Parliament (MPs) for their strong support ahead of the Vote of No Confidence (VONC), scheduled for 12 September 2024. The MPs reaffirmed their loyalty to Marape following a Parliament session, showing unity as the government prepares for the upcoming vote. “All 48 MPs, including myself, pledged loyalty to Pangu to honour the Section 63 invitation given by the Head of State to form Government after the 2022 National General Election,” Marape said. He assured the nation that Pangu and its coalition partners would defend the government in next Thursday's VONC. Unlike previous VONC situations where MPs stayed in camps, Marape explained that this time, the coalition partners have opted for a more open and flexible approach. “The difference to past VONCs, where MPs stayed in a camp, is that coalition partners resolved last night, on my advice, that MPs be free to move around rather than stay locked in a camp." "We have an open-door and open-camp policy,” he said. He stated this to dismiss speculations that the MPs would relocate to a remote location, stressing that they would remain in the capital to focus on their preparations for the vote. He added that the upcoming week would be spent reviewing the government's achievements and planning for future development as the nation approaches its 50th anniversary of independence in 2025. The country celebrates its 49th Independence anniversary on September 16th. Marape also called on the people of Papua New Guinea to continue supporting the government and to hold it accountable for its work, promising to deliver results before and by the 2027 National General Election.