Papua New Guinea has successfully carried out its first kidney transplants, with both recipients now recovering well at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) has announced. The historic surgeries were performed on 14 and 15 May 2025, in partnership with UK-based charity Transplant Links Community (TLC). They mark a milestone for PNG’s healthcare system and coincide with the country’s 50th independence anniversary. A 58-year-old woman from Enga Province, diagnosed with kidney failure in 2022, received a kidney from her 24-year-old niece. The second patient, a 56-year-old woman from Central Province, was given a kidney by her 40-year-old younger sister after being diagnosed in 2023. Both patients began passing urine within 24 hours of surgery – a key sign of transplant success – and remain under close observation. PMGH Chief Executive Dr Paki Molumi described the operations as a “national breakthrough”, saying: “We are pleased to report that both transplant recipients and their donors are doing well. Their recovery has been steady.” The procedures were led by Papua New Guinean urologists and trained transplant surgeons Dr Damien Hasola, Dr Sidney James, and Dr Chris Munguas, supported by TLC specialists. A multidisciplinary team of anesthesiologists, nurses, pathologists, radiologists, and support staff assisted in the operations. Prime Minister James Marape, who visited the operating theatre during the second surgery, praised the courage of the patients and their families, calling the achievement “medical history for PNG”. He said the development aligned with his government’s vision to reduce reliance on overseas medical treatment. Dr Hoxson Okti Poki, chairman of the Kidney Transplant Program Steering Committee, said the success reflected “years of dedication and collaboration” and positioned PNG to undertake more organ transplants in the future. Lead surgeon Dr Hasola described the achievement as “a gesture of hope” for patients who would otherwise need costly overseas treatment. “For this to happen during our 50th independence anniversary is a dream come true,” he said. The transplants were made possible with financial backing from the National Fisheries Authority, which contributed K10 million to help PMGH build capacity for specialist care. PMGH and the National Department of Health say they plan to expand the programme, continue training local staff, and strengthen renal care services in the coming months.

Charlie Isari from St Charles Lwanga Secondary School in Port Moresby city didn’t expect that an essay he started just a day before the deadline would win him the 2025 National Grade 11 Essay and Poetry Competition. Representing the Southern Region, the 18-year-old is of mixed parentage of Kanuni Village in Tufi, Oro Province, and Ihu, Kavava West Kerema. Charlie is currently studying Biochemistry in Grade 11 at St Charles Lwanga. His essay, Independence: A Symbol of Unity, won first place in the essay category during the 41st anniversary celebrations of Papua New Guinea’s Parliament House on Thursday, August 7. The competition also marked the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary and brought together 24 student finalists from across the country. In person, Charlie is softly spoken and a little shy, but when it comes to talking about his work, he is fluent and precise. “I started on Wednesday afternoon, worked through Thursday, and submitted on Friday,” he recalled with a smile. “Actually, I first submitted it on Thursday, but they found a few mistakes, so I had to edit it again. My mum helped me replace repeated words with better ones, and that made it stronger.” The competition asked students to explore what independence means to them and how they envision Papua New Guinea in 50 years. For Charlie, inspiration came from both the nation’s history and his own childhood memories. “My favourite part was the second paragraph,” he said. “I described how, as a kid, independence meant the dancers, the traditional attires, and the songs. The words just came naturally.” Although the clock was against him, Charlie says he wouldn’t have entered without the encouragement of his best friend, Jerusha Wama. “She kept pushing me to try, even though it was late,” he said. “I didn’t think I would win — for me, it was just a try. But then my teacher told me I was selected, and the whole class started screaming.” On the day of the event, held at the Parliament State Function Room, Charlie’s highlight wasn’t just winning the prize — it was meeting some of the pioneering leaders of PNG. “We learned about Sir John Momis in school and meeting him in person was unbelievable. My friends couldn’t believe it, so I had to take pictures,” he laughed. For his win, Charlie received K5,000, and his essay will be preserved in a historic time capsule to be opened in 2075, alongside photographs and memorabilia from this year’s celebrations. From a rushed Wednesday afternoon idea to standing in Parliament as a national winner, Charlie’s story is a reminder that sometimes the greatest successes come when you least expect them — and when you have the right people cheering you on.

The 41st anniversary of the National Parliament House in Port Moresby this week was marked with a powerful display of student creativity during the Grade 11 National Essay and Poetry Competition, held in commemoration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. A total of 24 finalists, six from each region, were selected through a rigorous three-stage process that began at the school level and concluded with regional shortlists. Finalists were brought into Port Moresby on an all-expenses-paid trip to take part in a week-long national program, culminating in the final presentation on Thursday, August 7. The central theme of the competition was “PNG is celebrating 50 years of independence. What does independence mean to you and how do you envision PNG in 50 years' time?” In the Essay category, Charlie Isari, a Grade 11 science student from St. Charles Lwanga Secondary School representing the Southern Region, claimed first place for his thoughtful and visionary piece titled "Independence: A Symbol of Unity." “Independence is more than a debate or a date in history,” Isari said “It is about unity, resilience, and pride in who we are. I wanted to imagine what PNG could become by 2075, a strong and diverse country that is led with care.” In the Poetry category, Joshua Sinari of Zion Zeal Secondary School in the Southern Region won first place for his heartfelt poem "Independence Poem for PNG You." “Writing the poem felt like writing a song,” Sinari said. “I wanted it to speak from the heart about our land, our people, and what independence truly means as we look to the future.” The runners-up in both categories were from the Highlands Region, representing Kainantu Technical Secondary School. Phylip Ryan placed second in the Poetry category, while Simon Tau secured second place in the Essay category. For their prizes, Charlie and Joshua will each receive K5,000, while Simon and Phylip will each receive K3,000 for their second-place wins. All 24 winning entries will be included in a historic time capsule, which will be sealed in the presence of pioneering Members of Parliament and opened during PNG’s centennial celebrations in 2075. Photographs and memorabilia from this year’s anniversary will also be preserved. The competition, officially launched on May 23 and closed on June 20, served as a platform for young Papua New Guineans to reflect on the nation’s journey and share their vision for this 50th anniversary and to the next 50 years.

Cricket PNG has officially named the 14-man Barramundis squad set to represent Papua New Guinea in the upcoming World Cricket League (50-over format) tour in Jersey, scheduled from August 12 to September 3, 2025. The announcement was made during a press briefing held at Amini Park this morning, with Cricket PNG Chairman Michael Harrison joined by Selection Panel Chairman Hudson Leka, Deputy Chairman Rarua Dikana, and Assistant Coach John Ovia. Veteran batter Assadollah Vala will lead the side as captain, with Sese Bau appointed vice-captain. The 14 selected players include: 1. Assadollah Vala (Captain) 2. Sese Bau (Vice Captain) 3. Kipling Doriga 4. Hila George Vaieke Vare 5. Patrick Nou 6. Kabua Vagi Morea 7. Alei Nao 8. John Kariko 9. Michael Charlie 10. Damien Ravu 11. Vagi Guba 12. Boio Ray 13. Jason Kila 14. Peter Karoho Three players; Boio Ray, Vagi Guba, and Peter Karoho all three have earned maiden call-ups to the national squad. The tour also marks the return of experienced campaigners Damien Ravu and Jason Kila. Chairman Harrison commended the blend of youth and experience in the team. "This squad is a blend of experience and emerging talent, and we are confident they will make the nation proud," he said. "We wish them all the best as they prepare to showcase PNG’s cricketing strength on the international stage." Head Coach John Ovia expressed confidence in the squad’s preparation, noting their training focus over the past two months. “We’ve worked hard on match awareness and game scenarios. The boys have responded well under Assad and Sese’s leadership,” said Ovia. “This tour will test our skills, character, and team spirit but I believe this group is ready.” Selection Chairman Hudson Leka described the selection process as very competitive. “We considered fitness, form, and team balance. Each of these players earned their spot and will represent the country with pride,” he said. The team departs on Monday, August 11, and will arrive in Jersey after a two-day journey. They will then travel to Guernsey on August 14 for warm-up matches, including a T20 and two ODIs, before returning to Jersey to open the tournament on August 20. Cricket PNG extended its best wishes to the Barramundis for a successful international campaign.

Port Moresby Nature Park’s Conservation Manager, Francis Otto Gundu, has been named “ZAA Employee of the Year” at the 2025 Association of Zoos and Aquariums Australasia (ZAA) annual meeting in Darwin, Australia. The event was made possible through the sponsorship of UK-based conservation charity, Synchronicity Earth, which supported three Papua New Guinean staff from the Nature Park to attend. Mr. Gundu, who hails from Simbu Province, presented on the park’s partnership with the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC), highlighting its role as host of the newly launched Centre for Species Survival: PNG. The Centre aims to support the conservation of the country’s diverse native species. Wildlife Officer Ms. Bonnie Irima Bilson also shared insights into the park’s successful breeding program, which recently celebrated the hatching of a Raggiana bird-of-paradise chick as a symbolic achievement tied to PNG’s 50th Anniversary. Both presentations received high praise from conservationists, researchers, zoo and aquarium directors, and Indigenous representatives from across the region. The highlight came when Mr. Gundu was awarded the prestigious Employee of the Year title which was a recognition given to an individual who demonstrates excellence in teamwork, innovation, integrity, and inclusion. “We were already proud to have Francis and Bonnie represent the park,” said Nature Park CEO Johnpaul Houston. “Francis embodies the spirit of our wildlife team, and this award is a testament to over a decade of staff development at the park.” Mr. Gundu was acknowledged for leading several impactful initiatives that include improvements in the breeding of endemic frog species and expanding internship programs to include more urban youth. Melanesia Program Manager for Synchronicity Earth, Miriam Supuma, praised the achievement and emphasized the importance of investing in young Papua New Guinean conservationists. “Exposure to regional networks builds skills, fosters collaboration, and strengthens local conservation,” she said. “Francis’s leadership and innovation at the park show the great potential PNG has in leading its own conservation future.” Reflecting on the win, Mr. Gundu credited his team. “Although I’ve been recognized, the work we do is always a team effort,” he said. “This award belongs to all of us at the Nature Park.” He extended his gratitude to the ZAA, the park’s board, and CEO for supporting professional development and recognizing local conservation efforts. “It’s important that the world sees the good work happening here in PNG,” Mr. Gundu added. “I look forward to bringing the award home to share it with my wife, two sons, and the entire team.”

A week-long Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) awareness campaign was held across 5 schools in Milne Bay province with a total of 645 girls attending in June 2025. The awareness campaign was by CPL Foundation Inc., in partnership with Queenpads and the Sir Brian Bell Foundation. The awareness campaign was led by Queenpads Founder & CEO Anne-Shirley Korave and volunteer Shivonnie Sakme, who facilitated sessions at: - Naura Primary School - Hagita Secondary School - Huhuna Primary School - Kebegiuli Primary School - Ramhaga Adventist Primary School Each school hosted interactive awareness sessions, providing vital information around menstrual hygiene, cycle education, and destigmatization of menstruation. The sessions also encouraged proper hygiene practices and promoted sustainable, environmentally friendly menstrual products. This campaign was timed to align with World Environment Day, reinforcing the connection between menstrual health and waste reduction through reusable sanitary solutions. Thanks to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation, each participant received a reusable QueenPad with a total of 638 QueenPads distributed during the program. CPL Foundation covered all logistics for the trip, including return airfares, cargo, accommodation, meals, transport, and boat transfers, totaling over K10,000 in sponsorship. This partnership exemplifies CPL’s commitment to championing health and education initiatives, particularly those that empower young girls and women across Papua New Guinea. Feedback from the schools was overwhelmingly positive as this highlights the need for more support and open dialogue on reproductive health education in schools. As menstrual health remains a sensitive yet crucial topic in PNG, CPL Foundation remains committed to supporting programs that equip girls with knowledge, confidence, and access to safe hygiene products. "We thank all our partners, especially the on-ground volunteers and school administration teams, for making this outreach possible."

 New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon arrived in Port Moresby this evening at 6:15pm, where he was officially welcomed at Jacksons International Airport’s APEC terminal by a full ceremonial parade led by the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). Escorted by PNGDF Commander, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, the Prime Minister was ushered through a formal guard of honor, marking the significance of his first official visit to Papua New Guinea since assuming office. A military band played the Papua New Guinea national anthem, setting a respectful and dignified tone for what is expected to be a key diplomatic engagement between the two Pacific nations. Among the dignitaries present to receive the New Zealand leader were Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, and Police Commissioner David Manning alongside senior officers of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and members of the ceremonial guard. Prime Minister Luxon was taken through the military parade three times—a protocol typically reserved for visiting heads of state—before departing for APEC House, where formal bilateral talks are scheduled during his stay. “This visit signals the strength of our Pacific partnership,” said Foreign Minister Tkatchenko during the ceremony. “We are honored to receive Prime Minister Luxon and reaffirm our commitment to regional cooperation.” Deputy Prime Minister Rosso, who accompanied Prime Minister Luxon throughout the ceremony, reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing shared priorities between the two governments. The presence of Police Commissioner David Manning and the PNGDF at full protocol highlighted the ceremonial importance and security significance of the visit. Prime Minister Luxon is expected to engage in discussions around regional security, trade, and climate action, with a scheduled address to the Papua New Guinea National Parliament anticipated as a key highlight of his visit. The evening’s official reception concluded with a final military march as Prime Minister Luxon departed the terminal for his official residence.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has recently launched the official 2025 season of the Santos Cup; the country’s premier national women’s rugby league competition. Now entering its second year, the Santos Cup will run across five rounds followed by two weeks of finals, culminating in the grand final on 14 September, held ahead of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup finale. Each of the six participating franchises will play each other once before the top four progress into the final's series. The six teams competing in this year’s tournament include: · Gas Resource Central Dabaris · East New Britain Agmark Gurias · Bintangor Goroka Lahanis · Lae Snax Tigers · Wamp NGA Mt. Hagen Eagles · Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina emphasized that the launch of the 2025 season is more than just a calendar event. He said it reflects the organization’s dedication to building inclusive pathways in rugby league. “Santos Cup highlights our continued efforts to maintain, strengthen and build pathways to allow an equal playing field, equal opportunities, and ensure rugby league competition is accessible for our girls and women.” He also noted that televised matches in Port Moresby, courtesy of TV Wan, will offer visibility and motivation for aspiring female players participating at grassroots and affiliated levels across the country. “This is more than a competition; Santos Cup represents a national outlet for our affiliated and grassroots female competitions that are present, growing, and breaking barriers at community and school levels across PNG.” Highlighting the international progress of local talent, Mr. Hondina pointed to players like Elsie Albert, who now competes in the NRLW Telstra Premiership for the Parramatta Eels, and several PNG Orchids stars currently playing in Australian leagues. “Santos Cup provides a platform, and it is our responsibility at PNGRFL to ensure these pathways are not only available but also visible to drive more participation.” Additionally, matches for the 2025 Santos Cup will be played in Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Minj, and Goroka, reinforcing the competition’s national footprint. The Santos Cup was first introduced in 2024 as part of PNGRFL’s long-term vision to develop the women’s game and align it with existing National Rugby League Competition pathways.

Police have launched an investigation into a deadly ethnic clash that resulted in the tragic death of a father and son at 8 Mile Back Road in the early hours of Saturday morning in Port Moresby city. Authorities have confirmed that the case is not linked to Friday’s violent clash at Erima. NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab stated that the incident appears to be a domestic retaliation, possibly involving an alcohol-related dispute, and is being treated independently from other recent tensions in the city. “We want to make it clear that this incident is not related to the Erima fight or any ethnic conflict. It is a separate matter under active investigation,” Superintendent Simatab said. The two deceased, believed to be a father and his son, were found dead at the scene of their burnt home. Their bodies have been recovered and taken to the Port Moresby General Hospital morgue. “The full NCD Command is involved. Our officers are conducting interviews and gathering evidence to understand what happened,” Simatab said. Police have also increased visibility in the area to prevent further unrest. Speculation on social media had suggested a connection between the 8 Mile incident and ongoing disputes between individuals from Eastern Highlands and the Southern Highlands. However, Superintendent Simatab has dispelled these claims and cautioned the public against spreading false information. “We urge the public not to jump to conclusions or spread unverified reports. We are treating this matter with urgency, and we’ll share more confirmed findings by tomorrow,” he added.

BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) has renewed its long-standing support for health development in Papua New Guinea with a K100,000 donation to the Operation Open Heart (OOH) Foundation, contributing to the Foundation’s 2025 cardiac surgery program and medical training initiatives. The donation, presented at Port Moresby General Hospital, reinforces a 25-year partnership between BSP and the Foundation. Since 2002, BSP has provided over K2.5 million in financial assistance to OOH, supporting access to life-saving surgeries and specialist training for local medical professionals. Hari Rabura, BSP Group General Manager - Corporate Affairs & Community, said the partnership is grounded in a shared commitment to healthcare access and equity. “This support is not just financial as it is about giving Papua New Guineans access to skilled care and a chance at recovery." "Through partnerships like this, we aim to help improve public health and strengthen healthcare systems,” Ms Rabura said. In 2024, BSP donated K292,500 to help procure a Demo Vivic Ultrasound device, enhancing diagnostic services within the program. That contribution was aligned with BSP’s broader commitment to improve medical service delivery through community-based initiatives. The 2025 funding will enable up to 30 cardiac surgeries to be performed by a team of local and international medical professionals. The initiative is designed not only to provide direct medical care but also to support the training of eight Papua New Guinean health workers in advanced cardiac treatment contributing to long-term capacity building within the national health system. “Operation Open Heart has helped save more than 1,500 lives, while also equipping many healthcare professionals with vital surgical and clinical skills." "We are proud to continue supporting their mission in 2025,” Ms Rabura said. Kathy Johnston, Chairlady of the Operation Open Heart Foundation, acknowledged the Bank’s consistent support over the years. “For 25 years, BSP has remained a dedicated partner. Their support has helped ensure access to vital cardiac treatment for many who otherwise could not afford it. We are deeply grateful for their continued commitment to saving lives." The partnership reflects BSP’s broader community investment strategy, which prioritizes sustainable development and improved social outcomes across PNG and the Pacific. “This collaboration with Operation Open Heart is an example of how institutions and communities can work together to make meaningful, long-term improvements in public health." BSP continues to uphold its responsibility as a corporate citizen by supporting initiatives that contribute to health, education, and economic empowerment by ensuring its investments make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

TRENDS Beauty International today marked its 35th anniversary with a public celebration at Vision City’s front foyer in Port Moresby, highlighting its contributions to the beauty and grooming industry across Papua New Guinea. The event featured live hairstyling demonstrations by teams from the company’s ten Port Moresby outlets, showcasing current trends for both men and women. A standout moment was the Barber Battle, a friendly competition between stylists John Wally and Scotty Dash, both representing the company’s male grooming brand, Boss Man. As part of the celebration, TRENDS introduced its newest in-house product line, Waves & Curls, designed for both male and female hair care. Ghanaian hair specialist Amos, who joined the event as a guest trainer, provided a live demonstration and explained the product’s features to the public. TRENDS also used the occasion to officially launch its rebranded Besti Loyalty Program, offering rewards for purchases above K30. Sign-up and redemption booths will remain open until 8:00 PM. Chief Operating Officer Mr. Wayman Ho shared that the company remains committed to quality service delivery and is exploring the possibility of establishing a training institution to help maintain industry standards in the country. The event also featured a bridal styling showcase, with models presenting new concepts under TRENDS' wedding line. In addition to Port Moresby, the company now has five outlets each in Lae, Goroka, and Mt. Hagen. TRENDS Beauty International manages a portfolio of nine brands, including: Boss Man – Men’s grooming and barber product line Nefertiti – Haircare brand (likely tailored for textured or natural hair) Lux Hair – General haircare/styling brand Yaki Natural – Likely focused on natural hair extensions or products Waves & Curls – Newly launched OEM product for both men and women Amoré Beauty – Skincare or cosmetics brand TRENDS Best Loyalty Program – Loyalty and customer engagement platform E’Lite Beauty Tools – Hair and beauty tools/accessories TRENDS Bridal – Wedding-focused beauty and styling line The company stated the event was an opportunity to reflect on its growth and show appreciation to its customers, staff, and business partners.

CPL Foundation Inc. has extended much-needed support to the Buk bilong Pikinini Tatana Library Learning Center (LLC) following a mudslide that caused significant damage to the school’s surrounding stone wall in late May. The Tatana LLC, a community-based early learning center supported by Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP), is situated on land formerly used as the Tatana United Church pastor’s residence. In 2014, following the relocation of the pastor’s home, the land was made available for the construction of the school. The stone wall, originally built by the church to secure the property, had stood for 27 years before sustaining extensive damage during the recent mudslide. The slide compromised the safety and structural integrity of the school grounds. In response, CPL Foundation acted promptly working with the CPL Group’s Repairs & Maintenance (R&M) team to assess the damage and engage a local contractor to carry out urgent repair work and reinforce the wall. CPL Foundation Inc. has been a committed partner of Buk bilong Pikinini, supporting Tatana LLC for over a decade. As a Diamond Sponsor, CPL Foundation provides funding for the school’s operational costs, including educator salaries, special events, educational resources, and utilities. The total cost of the restoration and reinforcement project was K44,000, fully funded by CPL Foundation Inc. “Our priority was to ensure the safety of the students and the continued operation of the school. We’re proud to have been able to respond swiftly and support the BbP Tatana LLC students and teachers through this recovery,” said Ms. Deborah Alois, Manager of CPL Foundation Inc. Mr. Maru Koraihi, Chairman of the Tatana United Church, expressed his gratitude: “On behalf of the church, the school, and the entire Tatana community, we sincerely thank the CPL Foundation for their swift response and continued support. The restoration of the wall ensures our children continue learning in a safe environment.” Ms. Leanne Resson, Executive Officer of Buk bilong Pikinini, also extended her thanks: “We are extremely grateful to CPL Foundation for stepping in during this time of need. I would also like to acknowledge Sir Mahesh Patel, the Foundation’s Chairman, for consistently supporting BbP Tatana LLC beyond the terms of our sponsorship agreement. His generosity and willingness to do more means so much to the children and the community.”