Works and Highways Secretary David Wereh has praised the completed nine new climate-resilient bridges—three in East Sepik and six in Madang— as transformative impact project as it will boost the livelihoods of over 40,000 people in the rural areas along the Sepik and Ramu Highways. "It has brought transformational social and economic benefits to rural communities by providing reliable and safer access to markets.” "It has also significantly enhanced our knowledge and skills in bridge engineering.” This follows an investment of $50 million (estimated K194mil) by EIB Global to construct these nine new bridges in the country, significantly improving connectivity and safety across the rural road networks of East Sepik and Madang provinces. This project, part of a broader initiative called the Bridge Replacement for Improved Rural Access, was co-financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Papua New Guinea. The project aims to improve the livelihoods of approximately 400,000 residents by providing better access to markets and social services. The nine climate-resilient bridges, along the Sepik and Ramu Highways were completed on time and within budget. In PNG, upgrading road and bridge infrastructure is vital due to the challenging geographic conditions, including rugged terrain and extreme weather, thus the replacement of nine outdated and unsafe bridges along these highways, marks a significant improvement in the national infrastructure. They are more sustainable and resilient to climate change, enhancing safety, reliability, and accessibility for all road users. The Bridge Replacement for Improved Rural Access project is a collaborative effort between EIB Global, the Asian Development Bank, and the National Government, and will facilitate the construction of 27 new bridges with a combined investment of about $150 million (estimated K582 million). Of this, $90 million is from the ADB, $50 million from EIB Global, and $10 million from PNG Government. By replacing these 27 outdated single-lane bridges with modern, double-lane permanent bridges, the project has significantly enhanced the transportation network and access within the country, improving the lives of thousands of residents. Speaking about the 9 completed bridges, EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle, who oversees EIB operations in the Pacific, described it a 'significant milestone'. "This cooperation between EIB Global, the Asian Development Bank, and the Government of Papua New Guinea has transformed deteriorating and hazardous river crossings into nine new high-quality bridges, enhancing rural connectivity and safety.” On behalf of the Department of Treasury, the Secretary, Andrew Oaeke, Secretary also expressed gratitude for the continued support from the Asian Development Bank and the European Investment Bank. "These quality bridges have improved the lives of citizens in the targeted provinces." He said the PNG government looks forward to future support for similar projects. Jacques Fradin, the European Union Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, praised the project's contribution to the country's development. "The European Union, through its bank, is proud to support the 'Connect PNG' programme, which aims to connect different parts of the country and facilitate social and economic development." "Improving transport and connectivity is central to the European Union's Global Gateway Strategy." ADB Country Director for Papua New Guinea Said Zaidansyah further highlighted the project's focus on road safety. "The Bridge Replacement for Improved Rural Access project not only boosts rural access to urban centres but also prioritizes road safety." "The relocation of existing bridges involved consultation with affected communities, including women, regarding connectivity to markets, health facilities, and schools." EIB Global is the EIB Group's specialized arm for operations outside the EU, and a key partner in the EU's Global Gateway strategy. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by 2027 and fosters partnerships with development finance institutions and civil society, and through global offices, EIB Global connects with local communities, companies, and institutions.

A new transfer directive has been issued by the Commissioner for Police, David Manning for another reshuffle within the police command. In the directive perused by PNG HAUSBUNG, Commissioner Manning said it is an effort to rebuild and strengthen key commands across the country and aims to place the right people in the right roles at the right time to meet the evolving operational requirements of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC). This was evident in today's (Thursday, July 18) handover takeover ceremony for Border Command at the RPNGC headquarters at Konedobu in Port Moresby witnessed by staff officers from both Deputy Police Commissioners Administration and Operation. The directive further stated that in order to enhance command skill sets, the following transfers have been directed that: - Peter Philip, currently the Divisional Commander of the Border Command, will now serve as Assistant Commissioner for Police (ACP) Training at the National Centre of Excellence, Bomana; and that - Perou N'dranou, formerly the Divisional Commander of the New Guinea Islands Command, will take over as the new Divisional Commander for the Border Command. The directive further reveals that John Kolopen will be moving from ACP Traffic to ACP Training at the National Centre of Excellence, Bomana; and Naua Vanuawaru, currently ACP Training, will now serve as ACP Traffic. The directive states that the transferred members are required to assume their new commands as a priority, with all hand-over and take-over procedures to be completed no later than Wednesday, July 31st, 2024. The significance of these transfers is for the continued success and operational efficiency of the RPNGC. "It is crucial that we build upon our strengths and ensure that we have the right people in the right roles at the right time.” Commissioner Manning had reported stated earlier this year following the first reshuffle of key commands. These strategic transfers are part of a broader initiative to rebuild and enhance the effectiveness of key commands within the RPNGC, ensuring the organization is well-prepared to face future challenges.

The Opposition's Vote of No Confidence Supreme Court Reference case is set for a pivitol directions hearing on Friday July 19th, 2024, at 9:30 am. Justice Derek Hartshorn will preside over the session. In the previous hearing on July 1st, 2024, Justice Hartshorn granted legal councels for the Speakerof Parliament, Job Pomat and Justice Minister, Pila Niningi who is the Attorney General, under two weeks to submit their responses to the grounds of the case, while the lawyers for Douglas Tomuriesa, the Leader of the Opposition, were given seven days to reply. Friday's hearing will primarily focus on confirming the receipt of these submissions and setting a date for the main arguments.

The pool competition in Port Moresby is gaining momentum, spreading excitement across the city and even into the Central province. This time, it has reached Poreporena village, a large coastal community in NCD’s Moresby South, where preparations are underway for their own pool competition. Set to kick off on August 5, 2024, the Poreporena Pool Competition (PPC) aims to bring fair play, sportsmanship, and community engagement through the sport of pool. Maryanne Accorin, the Executive Coordinator, shared their enthusiasm. “We welcome teams from Hanuabada, Elevala, and Gabi, and look forward to a competitive and fun season.” Led by Chairman John Podi and Deputy Chairman Willie Vaieke, the PPC is ready to offer a fresh perspective on pool sports, focusing on larger community participation. The registration fee is K500 per team, covering team and player affiliations. “The registration fee of K500 covers team and players affiliations and names submitted by teams is final and only those listed players will participate.” Registration is now open, and interested teams are encouraged to collect, complete, and return their forms along with the K500 fee to the executive coordinator. The PPC executives have announced that the first eight teams to register will receive a complimentary set of 12 uniform t-shirts, courtesy of Chairman John Podi. The Poreporena pool competition, similarly to that of the Hanuabada pool competition, but governed by a new body, has a fresh perspective to engage a larger community participation in the pool sports, fostering community spirit and healthy competition. With logistics and preparations ongoing, the village is set to dive into the world of competitive pool, offering a thrilling and engaging experience for all involved. “Stay tuned for more updates and get ready for the competition to start August 5!”

Port Moresby's crime rate has surged recently, driven by the city’s growing population, according to the NCD/Central Divisional police command. Limited police manpower has made it challenging to address all incidents, prompting a more proactive approach. Officers continue setting up tents in crime hotspots and conducting foot patrols to deter criminal activity. Sector Patrol 100 Units were seen establishing their operation tents in the Moresby South Electorate this week. The NCD/Central Divisional Command expressed gratitude to officers from other zones for their efforts in maintaining safety across the city in a social media post. “We thank the other police officers from the other two Zones for also policing the city, which we still feel safe to travel around.” The command also reminded residents to take precautions when moving around the city, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in combating the rising crime wave.

Twenty-six boat operators and their crews from five wards in the Duke of York (DOY) local level government (LLG) in Kokopo District of East New Britain OY LLG are undergoing an intensive training this week, starting Monday, July 15. Hosted at the Kokopo Fire Station from July 15th to 19th, the training is part of the Building Resilience to Climate Change (BRCC) program, according to the provincial administration. The goal? To ensure these seafarers can safely navigate the waters and handle their boats with confidence. This is the third rollout of the BRCC program, following successful initiatives in Milne Bay and Morobe provinces. Thirteen boats will be gifted to the Mioko Palpal, Mioko Virian, Moalim, Utuan, and Karawara wards upon the completion of the training. The BRCC program, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and supported by the East New Britain Provincial Administration (ENBPA), aims to bolster the skills and safety of local boat operators. ENB Deputy Provincial Administrator for Socio-Economic Services (SES), Marakan Uvano, highlighted the importance of this training during his opening remarks. "Climate change is impacting everyone and everything - from agriculture to the economy and our health." "This training is vital for ensuring safety at sea, maintaining boat standards, and reducing risks during travel.” He further expressed gratitude to ADB and its partners for their support. "The first part of the program includes the presentation of the boats and this week-long training.” "These boats will sustain community livelihoods." "The next phase will focus on sustainable fisheries and food security, followed by improving communication within the islands and with authorities when issues arise." Meanwhile, Florence Paisparea, ENBPA Coordinator of the Natural Resources Management and Development (NRMD) Unit, emphasized that the training will cover navigation skills, first aid, and boat engine maintenance. "The boats will be registered and licensed under the Small Craft Act, with plate numbers to help identify them if they go missing.” With these efforts, the boat operators of DOY LLG are set to navigate the challenges of climate change and ensure safer seas for their communities.

Member for Hiri-Koiari, Keith Iduhu, has cautioned the Government against giving false hope to the evicted illegal settlers of the 9-mile Bushwara area in NCD. In light of Prime Minister James Marape's announcement directing the Minister for Lands and the Member for Moresby Northeast to find solutions for the settlers, Iduhu expressed his concerns in a statement. “The grand proclamation and promise by the PM is counterproductive and purely political point scoring," Iduhu remarked. "Although I have been suggesting and advocating for a proper land formalisation policy, it appears that ad hoc promises take precedence over long-term solutions." Iduhu's warning comes as Hiri-Koiari and Central Province continue to face the encroachment and expansion of Port Moresby, along with the influx of illegal settlers. He echoed the sentiments of Central Governor Rufina Peter, who has urged a commonsense approach and a zero-tolerance stance against illegal settlers. "While we sympathise with the hardship being faced by those evicted, we must also be responsible with our statements and responses to this situation." "The onus is now on the government to apply proper land and housing policy to this situation and not dish out promises," Iduhu asserted. Iduhu, who is the Shadow Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Trade and Commerce, and Administrative Services emphasized the importance of planning over promising. "The government must provide proper housing for its citizens." "We must plan, and not promise." "We experience so many issues with living standards because we are letting our people become city planners, electricians, water suppliers, and road constructors," he stated. The people of Bushwara have been given promises thus far, Iduhu noted, and the promise land for illegal settlers always seems to be Central Province and Hiri-Koiari. He insisted that the lands of provinces and districts be respected and not subjected to state-sanctioned land grabbing. Iduhu also urged the people of Koiari not to cheaply and illegally give away land in hopes of quick money. "We have seen the damage caused in both the long and short term due to the illegal sale of land." "The social issues that come with urban drift, the increase in crime and social disorder, and the lack of services because of overpopulation." "I urge our people of Koiari not to give in to land deals that will only cause more problems down the line." "Let's develop the land, invest in the future, and see a return on these investments."

Commander of National Capital District and Central Province, the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Guinness has issued a stern warning to squatters attempting to erect makeshift homes near the eviction site at Nine Mile, Bush Wara's Portion 2156, 2157, and 2159. ACP Guinness said police will not hesitate to remove those settlers thinking of setting up makeshifts at nearby vacant land if they are caught. His warning comes following some settlers who had started putting up their makeshifts along the road leading into the Nine Mile eviction zone, but police had them removed today (Monday, July 15), as the fourth day of eviction operations continue. ACP Guinness said, otherwise, the eviction operation commenced smoothly today, with police and sheriff officers ensuring compliance with the court order. He again expressed gratitude to law enforcement and affected individuals for their cooperation during the orderly eviction process, which began on Thursday, July 11, and confirmed that most residents voluntarily vacated the area over the weekend, facilitating the ongoing removal of properties without major incidents. “I want to thank the police and sheriff officers and also those people who were affected for working together that had seen the eviction to take place smoothly, and the settlers there had come to realize that there is a court order in place that the security personnel will have to carry out the eviction.” While overseeing the eviction, ACP Guinness stressed the necessity of respecting land ownership rights amid disputes over customary lands. “We all must learn from this eviction exercise, and when we want to put up a permanent structure on a piece of land that is not our customary land, we must make sure we check properly who the land belongs to.” He confirmed that some Church buildings are yet to be taken down by the congregation of the respective churches but reminded them that there is a court order in place, and that any structures that are erected on the Nambawan Super Limited portions of land mentioned in the eviction order, will be taken down unless the title holders approve for it to remain. “Otherwise, all structures must be taken down including the churches that are still up,” he said, adding that the eviction exercise will continue this week. He also confirmed that so far, two portions of the land - portions 2156 and 2159 - are nearing completion with the eviction and that they have also started moving into portion 2157.

Finschafen MP and the Opposition's nominee for Alternate Prime Minister, Rainbo Paita, has fired back at Prime Minister James Marape for what he called "personal attacks" after the recent Cabinet reshuffle. Paita, speaking in Goroka during the Highlands tour of the Opposition and Alternate Government team, accused Marape of lacking grace and respect when introducing new ministers. “Prime Minister Marape said something like, ‘Me givim cheque book lo youngpla man na ol mekim nambaut so nau me givim lo senior mahn,’ while welcoming new ministers appointed to join his cabinet,” Paita stated, and criticized Marape’s remarks, calling them “unbecoming of a Prime Minister and a leader of his standing.” The reshuffle on July 9 saw five new ministers sworn into the Marape-Rosso Cabinet, including Vanimo Green MP Belden Namah, the former Opposition leader, who was appointed Minister for Culture and Tourism with additional duties overseeing border security affairs, and Wapenamanda MP Miki Kaeok was appointed as the new Finance Minister, with Marape praising the selection for its merit, regional balance, and capability. Paita urged Marape to adopt a more diplomatic approach. “It's unbecoming of a Prime Minister to, in a way, introduce his new ministers when they were recently appointed, and they went to Kokopo. There could have been a better way to introduce the ministers,” he said. Paita suggested Marape could have acknowledged the contributions of former ministers more gracefully, saying, “I thank the former finance minister who's been faithful, you know, serving the government, helping me hold the government together for the last five years... And on that juncture, I wish him well.” Paita further criticized Marape’s statement about him holding the "chequebook" as if it privately belonged to Paita. Paita pointed out that ministers operate within established systems and budgets. “So, for him to say that ‘mi sa holim cheque buk’ was a personal something, and is unbecoming of a Prime Minister,” he said, calling Marape’s remarks an emotional, knee-jerk reaction to his leaving the government. Reflecting on his exit from the government, Paita felt Marape had forgotten his contributions and loyalty. “For me exiting government and exiting for the last two or three months, it's like he forgets that I was with him... my loyalty, my contribution, my commitment to him in the last five years is unquestionable,” Paita said. Paita criticized the Prime Minister for not showing respect when introducing new ministers, emphasizing the need for graciousness and recognition of those who have supported him. “So, do you think Prime Minister can introduce his new ministers with a form of, you know, grace and rising above as a senior statesman? He holds the highest office in this country. You don't need to spoil the guy who stayed with you for five years, just because he's left you for five months,” he stated. He warned that Marape's behaviour sends a negative message to other government members, suggesting that loyalty might not be valued once someone leaves. “This goes to show to other members and leaders in the government as well, that you might stay with Prime Minister for five, six, seven, eight years, but the day you leave, this is what he will say to you,” Paita said. Paita called for the Prime Minister to address issues instead of making emotional outbursts. “If there's anything that I have abused in my time as finance minister, he's in government then he should tell the country that this was abused in this way, that way, otherwise let the record speak,” he challenged. Despite his criticism, Paita congratulated the new ministers and expressed willingness to work with them. “From us members on this side, we congratulate all the ministers who've been appointed... I'm welcoming the new appointment (of Miki Kaeok), and I wish him all the best in the office,” Paita declared, urging Marape to address issues in the country being felt by the people. “So, stop talking as people are tired of listening to many long speeches, and start getting to work and start addressing issues.”

Prime Minister James Marape landed in Jakarta, Indonesia, for the explosive 3rd PNG-Indonesia Annual Leaders’ Dialogue. The action-packed summit runs from July 13 to 15, 2024, and sees Prime Minister Marape face-to-face with Indonesian President Joko Widodo. This high-level meeting, initiated in 2022, promises game-changing agreements and fiery discussions. Marape is not just in Jakarta for dialogue—he is set to fire up the PNG-Indonesia Business Forum on Sunday, July 14, and will meet the powerhouse President-Elect and Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, who’s set to take office this October. The 3rd Annual Leaders’ Dialogue is ready to roll out four groundbreaking Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) targeting Transport, Education, and Health. These MoUs include the Cross Border Movement for Commercial Buses and Coaches; Cross Border Transport of Goods by Motor Vehicles; Cooperation in Education and Renewed Cooperation in Health. Transport Minister, Walter Schnaubelt is set to ink the transport deals, while Health Minister Dr. Lino Tom and Education Minister Lucas Dekena will seal the health and education pacts – they are part of the high-level PNG delegation who travelled with the prime minister. Since these dialogues began in 2022, PNG-Indonesia relations have skyrocketed, shifting focus from mere border issues to robust business, trade, investment, infrastructure development, agriculture, and cultural exchanges. “Trade and commerce between our countries are booming. Our produce can now find eager markets in Indonesia, and vice versa,” said Marape. “With Indonesia’s massive population of over 270 million, there’s a voracious demand for food, energy, and more. They’re the world’s biggest beef consumers.” “My focus is on tapping into Asia’s markets, including Indonesia, to boost our agricultural exports.” Marape’s power-packed entourage also includes Livestock Minister Seki Agisa, Oil Palm Minister Francis Maneke, International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru, and Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko. “I value this Annual Leaders’ Dialogue as it’s crucial for coordinating and advancing our bilateral relations with Indonesia (and as) President Widodo rightly said, ‘You can choose your friend but not your partner.’” Post-Jakarta, Marape jets to Japan for the Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting (PALM) Summit from Tuesday, July 16 to Thursday, July 18, where he will join other Pacific leaders and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to tackle climate change, environmental funding, and resilience issues. Meantime, back in PNG, Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso takes on the responsibility of acting Prime Minister during Marape’s absence. The PNG delegation is expected to return on Friday, July 19, by which time, the Opposition’s Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) motion case returns to the Supreme Court in Waigani for further directions.

Former Energy Minister and Bogia MP Robert Naguri has unleashed a scathing attack on the government for abandoning the people of Manam Island, who have suffered for over two decades following a volcanic eruption. In a fiery statement, Naguri condemned both current and past administrations for neglecting the 20, 000 displaced Manam residents since their relocation to the mainland in Madang Province after the 2004 disaster. “You all know the suffering of my people of Manam, it’s been 21 years now, the government has ignored their plight,” he declared. “I have been fighting for my people from the previous government and even in this government, but there has been no change. Naguri's frustration was palpable as he highlighted the dire conditions faced by the displaced community. “There are about 20 thousand people, how can we accommodate refugees in hotels and proper facilities, yet we disregard our own people,” he said, pointing out the irony in the government’s actions. He stressed that the lack of basic services like health care and education has led to people getting sick and children being unable to attend school due to no school fees. “Every government’s interest is to entertain the people’s interest and concerns, as politicians we are voted by the people to go into parliament to serve the people,” Naguri continued, emphasizing that ensuring access to essential services like good roads, hospitals, and schools should be a priority. He recounted his own struggles to advocate for the Manam people in parliament, which ultimately led him to resign from his ministerial position in a bid to incite governmental change. “While millions of kinas continue to be allocated towards the Manam Resettlement exercise annually, up until today it only remains figures on paper,” Naguri revealed, noting that these funds have remained untouched. “Of the K20 million allocation towards the exercise allocated for this year’s budget, nothing has been drawn down yet,” he said, underscoring the persistent bureaucratic inaction. Naguri also called for a generational shift in leadership, advocating for young leaders to take the reins. “We are almost reaching 50 years of nationhood and it is about time a young leader rises up and leads the country in a new direction,” he stated. Naguri’s remarks were made in Banz, Jiwaka Province, during the Opposition’s Highlands tour, which aims to raise awareness about the recent Vote of No Confidence and other critical issues facing the nation.

Prime Minister James Marape is set to embark on crucial diplomatic visits to Indonesia and Japan from July 14 to July 19, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations and explore new trade opportunities. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso will serve as Acting Prime Minister. Prime Minister Marape will first travel to Indonesia for the Annual Leaders' Dialogue with President H.E. Joko Widodo from July 14-15. This meeting marks the third iteration of the dialogue series initiated in Jakarta in 2022. The discussions are expected to cover a broad range of topics including trade, commerce, and bilateral cooperation. "Indonesia and PNG share common land and sea borders, and there are many issues of common interest which must be discussed at such regular meetings," Prime Minister Marape stated. Highlighting the significance of trade, Marape noted, "There has been increased focus on trade and commerce between our two countries, so that our produce can find markets in Indonesia, and Indonesian products can find markets in PNG." The Prime Minister emphasized Indonesia's vast market potential with its population exceeding 270 million, making it the fourth-largest in the world. Marape's agenda includes discussions on exporting agricultural produce to Indonesia to meet its substantial demand, particularly in food and energy sectors. Following his visit to Indonesia, Marape will attend the Pacific Islands Leaders' Meeting (PALM) Summit in Japan from July 16-18. Here, he will engage with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and other Pacific Island leaders. This summit presents an opportunity to bolster PNG's trade relations with Japan, a significant importer of PNG's LNG, minerals, fisheries, forestry, and agricultural products. "Japan is a big importer of PNG produce, including LNG, minerals, fisheries, forestry, and agriculture," Marape noted. Apart from attending the PALM Summit, he will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Kishida and have an audience with Emperor Naruhito. Marape's visit will also include tours of Japanese technology, agriculture, and infrastructure projects to explore potential collaborations. Marape’s trip is to address PNG’s immediate needs and future cooperation with bilateral partners of choice. Marape's delegation includes Livestock Minister Seki Agisa, Oil Palm Minister Francis Maneke, International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru, and Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko. The visit aims not only to address immediate trade needs but also to foster long-term cooperative relations. In a show of Indonesia's ongoing support, Marape acknowledged recent aid efforts, "Indonesia continues to assist us, the latest being this week, when four plane loads of relief material were flown in for flood victims in Western and landslide victims in Enga." Marape’s diplomatic missions underscore the importance of maintaining robust international relationships to support PNG's economic growth and development.