The National Department of Health, through its Standard wing is working with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Health Ministry to assess health facilities standards and strengthen health system as Bougainville prepares for greater autonomy.Deputy Secretary for Health, Compliance and Standards Dr. Dora Lenturut said the discussions are focused on determining how the national department can support the development of Bougainville's health system.She said the National Department of Health and the ABG are discussing health facility assessments and standards that could provide a stronger foundation for the region's health services.“We are just trying to help them do an assessment for the health facilities in AROB just to help them set a platform for them for the future when they have their own autonomous government, then at least the health system is already in place. So there has already been ongoing discussion between the ABG government health ministry and our Standards Wing to help them properly to setting up” Dr. Lenturut said.Dr. Lenturut said the work would help establish a stronger platform for Bougainville's health system as the region progresses toward greater autonomy.Meanwhile, the Health Ministry is also considering a proposal to extend the retirement age for health professionals to 70.Meanwhile, Dr. Lenturut briefly highlighted some discussion in development on whether the retirement age for health professionals could be extended to 70.However, she stressed that no decision has been made and the proposal is still at an initial discussion stage.“That is not official yet. It is not yet formal, and it is still on the table for discussion, but hopefully we can make some fruitful progress in this discussion” she said.Dr. Lenturit said the proposal is being considered because experienced health professionals could continue contributing their knowledge and skills beyond the current retirement age.She said retaining experienced doctors and other health professionals could help the health system make better use of their expertise.The proposal remains under discussion and has not been formally adopted by the Health Ministry.

Rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society will become the cornerstone of Papua New Guinea's Correctional Service under Commissioner Noel Sarei, who says prisons must do more than simply detain offenders.During his inaugural Commissioner Welcome Parade at Bomana Correctional Service Staff Training College on Friday, August 7th, Commissioner Sarei identified rehabilitation as a central priority of his reform agenda, outlining plans to reshape how the Correctional Service prepares detainees for life after prison.His administration will re-establish the position of Assistant Commissioner Welfare and Rehabilitation while introducing a comprehensive Rehabilitation and Reintegration Policy to guide offender management across the country.The policy will cover education, vocational training, counselling, community reintegration and post release support, with the aim of equipping detainees to return to society as productive and law abiding citizens."This policy will redefine and rebrand rehabilitation within PNGCS, ensuring that every detainee is provided with genuine opportunities to change, develop practical skills and return to society as a productive and law abiding citizen," Commissioner Sarei said.He said rehabilitation is not only about reducing reoffending but also about strengthening families, improving community safety and contributing to national development.Commissioner Sarei's vision also extends to Prison Industry, which he plans to transform into a commercially viable arm of the Correctional Service that provides detainees with practical work experience and employable skills while serving their sentences.He said prisoners should also benefit directly from legitimate prison industry activities to help support their transition back into the community after release."A portion of revenue generated through these commercial activities can be returned to the Government through the Consolidated Revenue Fund, while also strengthening the financial sustainability of the Correctional Service," he said.Supporting the rehabilitation agenda will be reforms to the Correctional Service Training College, where Commissioner Sarei plans to modernize officer training by introducing nationally and internationally recognized qualifications and updating the curriculum to reflect contemporary correctional practices.Training will place greater emphasis on rehabilitation, offender management, intelligence operations, leadership, ethics, human rights and correctional administration.Commissioner Sarei said rehabilitation should remain at the heart of the Correctional Service's mission."As the Commissioner, I pledge to lead with integrity, fairness, transparency and accountability. Together, we will restore confidence in the service, strengthen rehabilitation, modernize our operations and build a Correctional Service that is respected both nationally and regionally and of course the employer of choice," he said.He said a modern Correctional Service must not only provide secure custody but also create meaningful opportunities for offenders to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society after their release.

Correctional Service (CS) Commissioner Noel Sarei has unveiled a four-point reform agenda aimed at modernizing the agency, strengthening governance, improving rehabilitation, transforming prison industries and raising professional training standards.Speaking during his inaugural Commissioner Welcome Parade at Bomana Correctional Service Staff Training College on Friday, Aug. 7, Commissioner Sarei told government leaders, members of the Law and Justice Sector, development partners and correctional officers that his leadership would be built on transparency, accountability and institutional reform."We are built on strong values and we must never lose sight of the principles upon which this Service was established," he said."Under my watch, transparency and accountability is nonnegotiable. These values must guide every decision we make and every action we take."Commissioner Sarei announced four key priorities that will guide his administration over the coming years.The first is a comprehensive review of the Correctional Service Act 1995, which he said no longer adequately supports the evolving responsibilities of a modern correctional system.He said the legislative review will strengthen governance, clarify operational responsibilities, improve accountability and provide the legal foundation for future institutional reforms.The second priority places greater emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration by developing a comprehensive Rehabilitation and Reintegration Policy and reestablishing the position of Assistant Commissioner Welfare and Rehabilitation.His third priority seeks to transform Prison Industry into a commercially viable business arm of the Correctional Service through stronger governance, sound policies and strategic partnerships.Commissioner Sarei said the initiative would equip detainees with practical employment skills and income generating opportunities while contributing to the financial sustainability of the service.The fourth reform focuses on modernizing the Correctional Service Training College through accreditation with the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, allowing officers to obtain nationally and internationally recognized qualifications.The reforms will also expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training opportunities for detainees while strengthening continuous professional development for correctional officers.Commissioner Sarei called on officers across the country to unite behind the reform agenda."As the Commissioner, I pledge to lead with integrity, fairness, transparency and accountability. Together, we will restore confidence in the service, strengthen rehabilitation, modernize our operations and build a Correctional Service that is respected both nationally and regionally and of course the employer of choice," he said.

Minister for Police and Internal Security Sir John Pundari has outlined seven key national security priorities that will guide policing and public safety efforts as Papua New Guinea prepares for the 2027 National General Election and responds to emerging challenges facing the country.Speaking during a media conference at the Parliament Haus State Function Room on Thursday, August 6, Sir John addressed seven significant matters concerning national security and the future direction of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.The priorities include the National Firearms Amnesty, election security, Pacific policing cooperation, El Niño preparedness, police performance, provincial police accountability and efforts to move Papua New Guinea beyond the Financial Action Task Force grey list.Firearms AmnestySir John said the National Firearms Amnesty and Gun Buy Back Program remains one of the Government’s major priorities, with the amnesty period running from February 28 to September 16, 2026.He said the program allows people to surrender illegal firearms without arrest while supporting efforts to reduce illegal weapons through intelligence-led operations, community engagement, weapons tracing and prosecution.The Minister called on all levels of government, churches, businesses, non-government organisations and citizens to take responsibility in addressing the threat posed by illegal firearms.“I make a call across this nation that everyone must rise up and make it your business to say we have had enough of illegal guns because it is a beautiful country and it is a blessed country.”“It is a time that all of us make peace and order in this country our number one priority.”Sir John said removing illegal firearms from communities is a shared responsibility and requires cooperation from all sectors of society.2027 National General Election SecurityLinking the firearms issue to the upcoming election, Sir John said the RPNGC will lead security operations to ensure the 2027 National General Election is conducted in a safe, fair and credible environment.He said police will work to maintain public confidence, protect the electoral process, prevent criminal activities, counter misinformation and work closely with community leaders, churches and youth groups to promote peace.The Minister warned that candidates or individuals who attempt to use firearms to influence the election process must face the consequences.“Sitting members wishing to contest the 2027 elections who rely on the barrel of a gun are unworthy and should consider themselves criminals.”Pacific Policing PartnershipSir John said Papua New Guinea will continue strengthening its policing partnerships with Pacific nations as the country prepares for the 2027 National General Election.He said regional cooperation will play an important role in supporting election security, with Pacific partners ready to assist PNG during this important national event.“When Papua New Guinea goes into election, our brothers will help us.”He said an estimated 300 regional security personnel could support election security operations.Sir John said PNG’s involvement in the Pacific Policing Initiative and its election to the INTERPOL Asia Regional Committee demonstrates the country’s commitment to strengthening regional law enforcement cooperation.He said these partnerships will also support efforts to address transnational crime across the Pacific.El Niño PreparednessThe Minister warned that Papua New Guinea could be facing one of its most serious El Niño weather events and urged communities to prepare for possible impacts.He said possible consequences include prolonged drought, delayed wet seasons, water shortages, power rationing, increased bushfires, food insecurity and social tensions.Sir John said police are working with the PNG Defence Force, disaster authorities, provincial governments and regional partners to prepare for emergency responses.He called for unity and cooperation across the country during challenging conditions.“Right around this country, we must show the true Melanesian culture. The water that runs throughout the country is not owned by the landowner; it is owned by the State and belongs to every Papua New Guinean.”Police Performance ReportSir John also provided an update on police performance and reforms, saying the Government’s law and order priorities are becoming more aligned with the operational direction of Police Commissioner David Manning.He said ongoing reforms are focused on increasing police numbers, improving investigations and prosecutions, strengthening accountability, expanding forensic capability, modernising infrastructure and supporting Provincial Police Commands.The Minister said continued investment in the Constabulary is necessary to ensure police are equipped to meet future national security challenges.Provincial Police Commander AccountabilitySir John called for stronger performance and accountability from Provincial Police Commanders and senior police leaders.He said Government investment in policing must be matched by effective leadership and delivery of services at the provincial level.The Minister expressed confidence in Commissioner David Manning and his deputies to address underperformance and ensure police commanders remain focused on serving communities.Moving Beyond FATF Grey ListingSir John said removing Papua New Guinea from the Financial Action Task Force grey list remains a key national priority.He said addressing the issue requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, government departments and regulators.The Minister said financial institutions must strengthen reporting of suspicious transactions so authorities can investigate, freeze and confiscate proceeds linked to criminal activity.He warned that organisations failing to meet their legal responsibilities could face prosecution.Sir John said the Government remains committed to strengthening PNG’s financial integrity and working with stakeholders to remove the country from the FATF grey list.

Western Highlands Province (WHP) is set to become the first province to host the Miss Bird of Paradise (MBoP) Papua New Guinea National Pageant under a newly introduced provincial hosting model announced by the organization.Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Chairlady Anna Bias said future national pageants will no longer be held at a fixed location but will rotate annually to the home province of the reigning Miss Bird of Paradise PNG.Western Highlands, home of reigning queen Iampela Popena, will host the 2026 National Pageant Week from November 22nd to December 3rd, culminating in the national crowning on December 3rd.According to Ms. Bias, the decision is aimed at creating opportunities for provinces while promoting tourism, culture, and local economic development.“Instead, the honour of hosting the National Pageant will rotate annually to the province of the reigning Miss Bird of Paradise PNG.”“This strategic decision is about much more than changing a venue. It is about creating opportunities for our provinces.”“It is about boosting local tourism. It is about stimulating provincial economies.”“It is about showcasing the rich cultures, traditions, arts and hospitality that make Papua New Guinea one of the world’s most culturally diverse nations.”She said the pageant has grown into a national movement since its establishment in September 2023, promoting leadership, creativity, culture, opportunity, and inclusion among young Papua New Guineans.“Miss Bird of Paradise has never been simply about crowning a queen.”“It is about discovering potential, creating opportunities, building confidence, nurturing leadership and inspiring young people.”The organization has intentionally continued crowning its national queen on December 3rd each year to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reflecting its commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities.“Our crown has always represented more than beauty. It represents service. It represents inclusion. It represents hope. It represents opportunity,” Ms. Bias added.The official announcement was made during the launch of the countdown to the inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise Talent and Fashion Show, which will be held at APEC Haus in Port Moresby on Saturday, August 8th.

Fifteen contestants will compete in the inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise (MBoP) Talent and Fashion Show at APEC Haus in Port Moresby this Saturday, August 9th, as organizers launch a new platform to promote Papua New Guinea's creative industry ahead of the 2026 Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant.The event comes ahead of the fourth Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant, which will be held in Western Highlands Province from November 22nd to December 6th.Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Chairlady Anna Bias said the Talent and Fashion Show was created to provide opportunities for Papua New Guinea's creatives, including fashion designers, sarong designers, dancers, choreographers, models, photographers, artists and musicians."There is a lot of creativity in this country. The problem is opportunity. What we are here to do is provide a pathway for them and bring in those talents," Ms. Bias said.Held under the theme "Where Creativity Creates Opportunity," the event forms part of the organization's long-term vision to strengthen Papua New Guinea's creative industry by turning talent into employment and business opportunities.Ms. Bias said Papua New Guinea should embrace its own cultural identity rather than imitate overseas trends."We have so much to offer. When we try to be like other countries, we can't compete with them. But when we use our culture and stories in garments, plays and all these creative expressions, it sets us apart and lifts us up. That's what we want to do with the creative industry in PNG," she said.She said many Papua New Guineans involved in traditional creative arts possess exceptional talent despite having little or no formal education."Most of the talents doing traditional creative work may have little or no formal education, but it's their talent and skill that they have to offer and contribute to the development of this country."Ms. Bias said the creative industry should be recognised as an economic driver, noting it generates billions of dollars globally and employs millions of people."Our challenge has never been talent. Our challenge has been opportunity."The MBoP Talent and Fashion Show seeks to bridge that gap by providing a national platform where creativity meets opportunity, where talent becomes enterprise, where ideas become businesses, where culture becomes tourism, and where passion becomes purpose."The inaugural competition will feature three categories: Talent, Sarong Design and Traditionally Inspired Dress.The Talent and Sarong Design categories will each award K7,000 for first place, K5,000 for second and K3,000 for third, with K1,000 consolation prizes for the remaining finalists. The Traditionally Inspired Dress winner will receive K10,000.Ms. Bias acknowledged Platinum Sponsor LJ Hooker Papua New Guinea, the National Youth Development Authority and other corporate partners for supporting the event. She also invited Papua New Guineans, including those living overseas, to watch the competition live on the official Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Facebook page."Together, let us focus on building our people because our people will build Papua New Guinea," she said.

Hela Province has become the first province in Papua New Guinea to develop a strategic plan to prepare for the impacts of the developing El Niño weather pattern.In an interview with Hela Provincial Administrator Ronny Angu following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Hela Provincial Government, the PNG Fire Service and the National Airports Corporation to keep Tari Airport and the new Tari Town fire safe.Mr. Angu said the province moved quickly after Prime Minister James Marape directed all provinces and districts to prepare for a possible, prolonged dry season."We have the El Niño program which is affecting the province and, under the leadership of the Governor, we are the first province in the country to plan for it. We also have the strategic plan that is now being implemented."He said the Provincial Executive Council approved the strategy just one week after the Prime Minister's directive."One week after the decision, under the leadership of Governor Philip Undialu, we held a PEC meeting, passed the resolution and the first thing we had to do was develop the strategic plan."The plan covers 2026 and 2027 and will be implemented in three stages, beginning with preparedness.Mr. Angu said the province has already begun purchasing water trucks, water tanks, cement bags, and plumbing materials to support vulnerable communities."We are currently supplying schools with water tanks and plumbing fittings, while water trucks are travelling around the province helping schools, churches and other critical infrastructure."He said the strategy also provides a framework for government agencies and development partners to identify where support is most needed."When we have a strategic plan, the plan tells us who should come in to support because this is a nationwide issue."Mr. Angu said the newly signed agreement with the PNG Fire Service and National Airports Corporation would further strengthen the province's disaster preparedness, particularly in protecting critical infrastructure."If fire catches one of these important infrastructures, we are in trouble. This MOU signed by the Governor will help us moving forward."He said the Provincial Government and District Development Authorities will lead implementation through disaster committees, with support from resource companies operating in Hela."We are not going to wait. That's the way we want to go."The Hela Provincial Government says the strategy is designed to improve the province's readiness and response as El Niño conditions continue to develop across Papua New Guinea.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) has launched its Governance Committee Charter and Terms of Reference, introducing a governance framework to strengthen accountability, transparency and decision making across the organisation.The charter was launched at the City Boutique Hotel in Port Moresby by Deputy Secretary for Compliance and Standards Dr. Dora Lenturut, representing Health Secretary Pascoe Kase. Approved by the NCDPHA Board, it is the first major policy launched under Chief Executive Officer Dr. Robin Oge and supports the authority's vision of "Healthy people, thriving communities in the NCD and Motu Koita areas."Dr. Oge said the charter establishes a clear system for decision making, assigning responsibilities and managing risks as NCDPHA continues to grow."The purpose is to give a clear and consistent system. Part of management's responsibility is to create a system for us in making decisions, managing risks, assigning clear responsibility and ownership of those decisions, and then holding those who have that responsibility accountable for the results, whether it's success or failure."He said the document removes uncertainty around committee responsibilities and reporting lines."We must know who is responsible for what, which committee should consider an issue, how recommendations should reach the senior executive management, and how those decisions must be recorded, communicated and implemented."The framework covers clinical services, public health, corporate services, finance, audit, risk management and partnerships while outlining reporting structures and governance procedures.Dr. Oge urged managers to put the charter into practice."Good governance does not simply mean having more meetings. It means that the right people are considering the right issues with the right information and then making the right and timely decisions that are followed through."He also announced that NCDPHA had secured its Health Services Improvement Program (HSIP) Trust Account after several years of work."We've been fighting for this account for the last three or four years, and we finally got it two weeks ago."He said the new HSIP Finance Committee will oversee the management of those funds and reminded staff that the document would only succeed if it is implemented."I expect all of you to read it, understand it and apply it."Dr. Oge said while patients may have never read the governance charter, they would benefit from the systems it creates."Our patients will never read this book, but they will experience the results that come out from the systems and processes embedded in this book."Dr. Lenturut described the charter as a living document that will guide NCDPHA for years to come."One thing I noticed when I picked up this book is that it has no time frame. It is a living document."She said effective healthcare depends on strong corporate, clinical and public health governance and reminded staff that leadership exists at every level of the organization."It doesn't mean that if the officer in charge is not there, there is no leadership. Each of us is a leader in our own right."The governance charter is expected to strengthen leadership, accountability and decision making across NCDPHA while supporting improved healthcare services for people in the National Capital District and the Motu Koita Assembly areas.

Marriott International stated that Papua New Guinea has all the right ingredients for the Sheraton brand to succeed, following the soft opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites.Speaking at the launching, Vice President of Development for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Richard Crawford, described the new Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites as “the meeting place for PNG.”The hotel marks a four-year dialogue between Marriott International and RH Group, to bring the Sheraton brand to Papua New Guinea.In his opening address, Mr. Crawford spoke about Marriott International’s global vision and the company’s position as the world’s largest hotel group before turning his attention to the significance of the Sheraton brand.He described Sheraton as one of Marriott International’s loyal brands and said PNG’s time had come to join the global network.“Now it is Papua New Guinea’s turn to raise the Sheraton flag,” Mr. Crawford said, explaining that the brand was selected for what it represents.“Why we chose Sheraton is because it brings people together.”Mr. Crawford said the reimagined hotel was designed to become more than a place for visitors to stay.“This is your hotel. This is for the locals, a place to unite, to celebrate, to have fun, to work.”RH Group’s redevelopment reflects the Sheraton brand, highlighting the hotel’s public spaces, club lounge, recreational facilities, nearly 400 guest rooms, dining venues and Papua New Guinea’s largest ballroom.“Dining venues and the biggest ballroom in PNG. This is about connectivity. It is about bringing people together,” Mr. Crawford noted. “This is the meeting place for PNG. In that, I see some ingredients that are very important for success.”Mr. Crawford also addressed the challenges of delivering large hospitality developments.“We used to celebrate hotel signings. Now we only celebrate hotel openings. There is a reason for that.”“To go from vision to opening is very, very difficult. Construction costs are high. Supply chains are challenged. RH Group got it done when other people could not.”He further stated that the opening was being celebrated because of RH Group’s commitment to delivering the project.Under the partnership agreement, RH Group retains full ownership while Marriott International manages its daily operations under the Sheraton brand.“RH Group continue to own this asset. They continue to own the business. They are just throwing us the keys and saying, ‘Please run this asset for us now’- and our message to you is we will not let you down.”In conclusion, Mr. Crawford thanked the Papua New Guinea government for its leadership and congratulated General Manager Shin Ching and the hotel staff.“Every great hotel needs a great general manager. To Shin Ching, good luck, my friend. Congratulations on what you've done so far.”He further acknowledged team members who had been with the hotel since it first opened in 2016 and the new staff joining the Sheraton brand, wishing them success as the hotel begins its next chapter.

Outgoing Civil Aviation Minister Hon. Wake Goi, MP, has handed over the aviation portfolio after 14 months in office, challenging incoming Minister Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa, MP, to continue reforms that have strengthened aviation safety, expanded infrastructure and improved rural air connectivity across Papua New Guinea.Speaking during the official handover ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, Goi thanked ministry staff, aviation agencies, board members and industry stakeholders for supporting the sector's progress."I must thank my first secretary, my chairman, deputy chairman and board members. Your presence today shows the commitment you have given me and the work we have done together," Goi said.During his tenure, Papua New Guinea recorded significant improvements in international aviation performance. The country's ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme Effective Implementation score increased from 60.7 percent to 80.55 percent, while its aviation security audit score rose from 35.67 percent to 62.95 percent. Papua New Guinea also cleared all previously identified Significant Security Concerns."These improvements are not simply statistics. They represent stronger regulatory oversight, greater compliance, improved aviation security and increased confidence in Papua New Guinea's aviation system," Goi said.He said the ministry also maintained a strong focus on infrastructure, including the K3.32 billion Port Moresby International Airport Redevelopment Project, rehabilitation works at Kagamuga Airport and upgrades at Kiunga, Hoskins, Wewak, Finschhafen, Jacquinot Bay and Hayfield airports.Goi said rural airstrips remained vital to connecting isolated communities, with 21 rehabilitation projects completed during his time in office."Our rural airstrips are lifelines. For many of our people, particularly in remote areas, an airstrip is not a luxury. It is the only practical connection to health, education, markets, government services, and emergency assistance," he said.He urged the new minister to maintain the momentum."We have to make sure the work continues. The projects we have started must not stop. They must continue for the benefit of our people and for the future of this country," Goi said.The outgoing minister also acknowledged the contributions of aviation workers across the country."I want to thank everyone who made things happen. From our airport workers, our security, our cleaners and everyone who works behind the scenes, you have helped make this sector move forward."He said maintaining high safety standards must remain the sector's priority."Safety must always be there for us. We must continue to maintain it and continue to improve."Goi formally welcomed Tomuriesa as the new Civil Aviation Minister, expressing confidence that the reforms already underway would continue."I formally hand over the Ministry and the work now underway with confidence that the incoming Minister will build upon the progress achieved."Tomuriesa assumes the Civil Aviation portfolio following the July 2026 Cabinet reshuffle, while Goi moves to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

A new educational boardwalk through one of Papua New Guinea's richest mangrove ecosystems has officially opened at Bautama in Central Province Today July 29th, creating a space where visitors, students and local communities can learn about conservation while experiencing nature firsthand.The Bautama Mangrove Educational Boardwalk is a joint initiative between the Central Papua Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). The project aims to protect the mangrove ecosystem while promoting environmental education, recreation, and community engagement.Speaking during the launch, Central Papua Conference President Pastor Lonol Winnie described mangroves as one of nature's greatest gifts."Mangroves are amongst God's greatest gifts to humanity. They protect our coastlines from erosion, provide breeding grounds for fish and marine life, improve water quality, and help reduce the effects of climate change," he said.He said protecting the environment is a responsibility shared by everyone."As caretakers of God's creation, we have a sacred responsibility to preserve these natural treasures for future generations."Pastor Winnie said the boardwalk has been designed as an outdoor classroom where students can learn directly from nature while encouraging visitors to appreciate the importance of environmental stewardship."It is our hope that everyone who walks these paths will leave with a deeper appreciation of God's creation and a stronger commitment to protecting it."He said the project is only the beginning, with plans to eventually expand the boardwalk to approximately three kilometres, transforming the site into a major conservation, tourism and educational destination for Central Province and Papua New Guinea.Pastor Winnie also acknowledged the support of The Nature Conservancy, the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), traditional landowners, development partners, volunteers and church members who helped make the project possible.Representing The Nature Conservancy, Asia Regional Director Will McGoldrick described the project as years in the making."It is a real pleasure to be here today to launch this very special project that has taken years to develop."Mr. McGoldrick said Bautama's mangrove forest is globally significant because Papua New Guinea is home to some of the world's highest mangrove diversity."What we are about to see is a really special place. A mangrove forest is unique and incredibly important, and it is remarkable that it exists so close to Port Moresby."He said Papua New Guinea contains around half of the world's mangrove species, making sites such as Bautama internationally important."These 27 hectares of mangroves are a reminder that nature is still here with us."Mr. McGoldrick also reflected on his personal connection with Papua New Guinea, saying his childhood memories of the country were shaped by its natural environment and that returning for the launch made the occasion especially meaningful.The launch also included the opening of a new resource centre, the unveiling of Blue Carbon ecosystem information signage, the official opening of the boardwalk, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.Representatives from the Central Provincial Government and the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority attended the event.

The suspended Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) recruitment training program is expected to resume as early as September, says the new Defence Minister Elias Kapavore.Minister Kapavore announced the recruitment update during his welcome parade at the Murray Barracks today in Port Moresby, saying that addressing recruitment remains one of the most pressing issues facing the Defence Force.He said the recruitment process must continue to ensure the PNGDF can train, grow and develop its personnel in line with Government direction.“I am pleased to advise that the suspended recruitment training for this year is expected to resume as early as September,” Minister Kapavore said.However, he said the resumption remains subject to the completion of necessary administrative processes, including removing recruits who are considered unfit to continue.“Once these matters are resolved. We will move forward and ensure that the recruitment and training continuum remains active and effective,” he said.The Defence Minister said strengthening recruitment is part of the broader goal of growing the PNGDF to 10,000 personnel by 2030.He added that reforms, including reviews of the Defence Act, Defence White Paper and Defence Doctrine, will help guide the future growth, modernization and capability development of the organization.