The new Defence Minister, Elias Kapavore, officially assumed office today, July 28th after being received by a ceremonial welcome parade at the Murray Barracks in Port Moresby, hosted by Commander of PNGDF- Rear Admiral Philip Polewara.Addressing officers, soldiers and invited guests, he said he accepted the responsibility with humility and determination, promising to work closely with the Defence Force, the Department of Defence and international partners."This appointment comes at a significant moment in our nation's history. We have now crossed into the next 50 years of this great institution, and together we can chart a clear path for the future," he said.Minister Kapavore reaffirmed the Government's commitment to ongoing defence reforms, saying improvements in governance, operational effectiveness, and institutional capacity would remain a priority.He also acknowledged the contribution of former Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph, particularly in advancing the Mutual Defence Treaty and strengthening Papua New Guinea's defence partnerships.The Minister reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's commitment to maintaining strong defence ties with Australia, New Zealand, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, Indonesia, China and other partner nations.He said the recently signed Statement of Intent on Defence Cooperation with New Zealand must now be translated into practical outcomes through joint training, maritime surveillance and defence cooperation.Minister Kapavore also praised PNGDF personnel serving across the country, including troops supporting the Highlands security operations, Operation Highwire, maritime patrols, disaster response and humanitarian missions.He assured every member of the Defence Force that he would advocate for improved welfare, resources, and operational capability."I will be your voice in Parliament. I will advocate for your interests, your welfare, your capability requirements, and the resources necessary for you to continue performing your duties effectively."He concluded by reaffirming the Government's vision of building a modern, capable and professional Defence Force that is prepared to safeguard Papua New Guinea's national interests.

Papua New Guinea's ICT sector entered a new chapter following the ministerial handover between outgoing Information and Communications Technology Minister Timothy Masiu and incoming Minister Robert Naguri at the National Broadcasting Corporation headquarters in Five Mile, Port Moresby.The ceremony marked the end of nearly seven years of Masiu's leadership, during which he oversaw major digital reforms, national ICT policies and regional cooperation that helped shape Papua New Guinea's digital transformation.Reflecting on his departure, Masiu said his exit was a government decision and not because of his health."I got sick not because I was not doing my work. I got sick because I worked hard. The body was tired because it did not get enough rest," he said.Masiu recalled that his final official assignment took him through Japan, New Zealand, Australia and the Philippines before he fell ill."My last work I did was July 5. From there I travelled from Japan, New Zealand, then to Australia. From Canberra I went to Manila and got sick."Despite leaving office, Masiu urged staff from the Department of ICT, NICTA and NBC to continue the reforms already underway."I must not diminish the big achievements and big plans that we have made. This plan must continue."During his time as minister, Masiu oversaw key reforms including the Digital Government Act 2022, the Digital Transformation Policy, National Cloud Policy, National Cyber Security Policy and Strategy, and the National Media Development Policy.He also led Papua New Guinea's hosting of the 2023 Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue, which produced the Lakatoi Declaration, giving Pacific nations a stronger collective voice on digital development."Our dream was to have one voice in the Pacific. Through working together with ICT ministers, we made sure our voice was heard."DICT Secretary and CEO Steven Matainaho also paid tribute to Masiu, recalling how their professional relationship began."During my first week, I did not meet with the minister. On the third day, he called me in and scolded me for not coming to see him."Matainaho said that conversation became the foundation of a strong working relationship."From that day, we developed good communication. I learned a lot under his leadership."The ceremony also recognised Masiu's support in strengthening the National Broadcasting Corporation, including expanding provincial radio services to improve access to information across Papua New Guinea.In handing over the portfolio, Masiu expressed confidence in his successor and the future of the ministry."I hand over this ministry with pride and confidence. I hand over this ministry knowing that you are a capable leader and minister, and you will continue to connect our country," he told Minister Robert Naguri.With Robert Naguri now assuming the ICT portfolio, officials said the focus remains on continuing Papua New Guinea's digital transformation agenda while building on the reforms introduced under Masiu's leadership.

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing the music industry, but Pacific artists performing at the Nesian All Stars say while AI is becoming part of music production, it can never replace the emotion, creativity and stage presence of real artists.Speaking before the night's performances at Lamana Gold Club, Solomon Islands and PNG artists shared their views on how AI is reshaping the music industry.Headlining artist Sharzy said many musicians were initially skeptical of AI, but attitudes have changed as more artists begin using it as a production tool."At first, musicians were saying AI wasn't good. But now everyone uses it in some way. It helps improve audio quality and gives you the ideas before you record the final version. AI is here to stay, and it helps raise the standard of music."Sharzy said he sees AI as a creative assistant rather than a replacement for musicians.Agreeing Solomon Islands artist Trabol Sum said AI is becoming part of the industry but believes listeners will always recognise genuine music."When you create a song yourself, you put your soul and feelings into it. AI doesn't have that. As time goes on, fans will know the difference between original music and songs generated by AI."He said audiences would ultimately decide which music they value most.On the other hand, PNG artist Viginuts said AI brings both opportunities and challenges.He said younger generations are embracing the technology, but he also worries it could reduce appreciation for musicians who spent years developing their talent without modern tools."There is a good side and a bad side. AI can help, but we must also respect the struggles of artists who worked hard to develop their music long before these technologies existed."While adding on their views, joining in is Venue Host, Lamana Hotel General Manager Jacquie Simons who said AI should not be viewed only as a threat because it can also help artists develop new styles and improve production.However, he believes live performances will always separate genuine performers from artists who rely heavily on technology."The charisma, the soul of the music and the connection with the audience happen on stage. That's what will show who the real artist is."While each artist had a different perspective, they shared one message, AI is becoming part of the future of music, but originality, emotion and live performance remain qualities that technology cannot replace.

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary has taken another step towards improving police welfare, officially opening new staff accommodation at the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) in Bomana that will become the new housing standard for the police training college.The K2.3 million project commissioned on Friday, July 24th includes two newly built duplex houses and refurbished accommodation for recruit mess cooks. Acting Assistant Commissioner for Training and NCoE, Silva Sika, said the new buildings represent more than additional housing. He said they mark the beginning of a long-term redevelopment plan that will gradually replace older timber staff houses throughout the college with modern brick homes."This is the kind of building we want to see throughout the college. Similar houses will be built, and the older buildings will gradually be demolished and replaced."Mr Sika said the redevelopment reflects the Government's commitment to improving the welfare of police officers and their families. The initiative forms part of the Government's Special Police Assistance Program (SPAP), which is upgrading police infrastructure across the country.Which ACP Sika acknowledged Police Commissioner David Manning, the Government and members of the SPAP Steering Committee for supporting the ongoing investment in police accommodation.He said similar housing projects are already taking place in other provinces as the Constabulary continues addressing long-standing welfare issues.According to Mr. Sika, proper accommodation gives officers confidence to perform their duties, knowing their families are living in a safe and secure environment."When police officers know their wives and children are safe at home, they can focus on their duties."Mr. Sika thanked contractor Far East Handyman Construction for completing the duplex project and accommodation refurbishment and he further reminded officers who will occupy the new houses that the accommodation is a privilege, not an entitlement."Look after these houses. One day someone else will live here after you. Set the standard for those who follow."Mr. Sika said major redevelopment is already planned throughout the NCoE, with further staff housing projects expected as the Centre continues its transformation into Papua New Guinea's premier police training institution.

Some of the Pacific's biggest music artists are set to perform this Saturday night at Lamana Gold Club as Sharzy leads the Nesian All Stars concert, bringing together performers from across PNG and Solomon Islands .The lineup features Sharzy, Kronos, Mal Meninga Kuri and Viginuts, while Solomon Islands group Trabol Sum will make its first-ever performance in Papua New Guinea.Solomon Islands music icon Sharzy described the concert as a milestone for Pacific music in Papua New Guinea."It's the first event of its kind in Papua New Guinea with a Pacific theme, and I'm really grateful to be part of it. For everyone coming on Saturday, expect a true Pacific music experience. I'll be performing songs that fans already know, and for the first time I'll perform some of my newer songs live, including Zuki."Sharzy said Zuki was inspired by the West Indies, which influenced both the sound and the writing of the song.For Viginuts, the concert will mark his first performance at Lamana Gold Club. He said he was grateful to Sharzy for inviting him to join the lineup."First of all, I want to thank Sharzy. It was a surprise when he reached out to me a couple of months ago. I'm excited and looking forward to performing at the Nesian All Stars. It's also my first time performing here at Lamana Hotel, and I'm grateful for the opportunity."Making his Papua New Guinea debut, Trabol Sum said performing in Port Moresby would be a special milestone in his career. He also acknowledged Sharzy as one of his musical inspirations."Sharzy has inspired my music career in many ways. I also want to thank Gold Club and Lamana Hotel for giving me the opportunity to perform here."Trabol Sum said the concert also reflects his own cultural heritage."I'll be representing Melanesia through the Solomon Islands and Micronesia through Kiribati because I come from both cultures. I'm really grateful to be part of this event."The Nesian All Stars concert celebrates Pacific identity by bringing together artists representing the three major Pacific regions while showcasing their shared music, culture and heritage.The event will be held at K100 Arena, Lamana Gold Club, beginning at 9:00pm on Saturday, July 25, and continuing into the early hours of Sunday.General admission tickets are K100, balcony tickets are K250, and VIP Meet and Greet tickets are K300. Tickets are available at the Lamana Hotel reception, with table reservations and bottle service also available.

For more than three weeks, students at Hebanofi Primary School in Eastern Highlands have been sent home early because there is simply not enough water.Now, residents of Johotegave Community in Kafentina Local Level Government, Henganofi District, are calling on Henganofi MP Robert Atiyafa and the Kafentina LLG President to help repair the community's ageing water supply system.Women's Council Treasurer and community advocate Ancy Huhune said the water system, built by the European Union in the 1970s, has not worked properly for about 10 years. The recent dry weather linked to El Niño has made the situation even worse."We are appealing to Henganofi MP Robert Atiyafa and our LLG President to assist us with plumbing materials and funding to rehabilitate the damaged water system," Mrs. Huhune said.While waiting for assistance, community members have been cleaning and improving the area around the only remaining water source so families can continue accessing safe water.Hebanofi Primary School Headteacher George Konou said the shortage has affected more than 400 students, teachers, and their families."The school's stored rainwater has run out because of the prolonged dry weather, forcing the school to operate half-day classes for the past three weeks," Mr. Konou said.He said restoring the water supply would allow students to return to full-day classes while improving the health and wellbeing of the entire community.Community leaders are now appealing for urgent support, saying reliable access to clean water is essential for education, public health and everyday life.

Opposition Leader and Chuave MP James Nomane has praised the decision by newly appointed Minister for Commerce and Industry Wake Goi to suspend Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) funding transactions while calling for a full and independent investigation into allegations involving approximately K200 million in SME funding.Mr. Goi announced the immediate suspension of most departmental SME funding transactions during his first media conference, saying the move would allow authorities to investigate allegations involving approximately K200 million in SME funding.In a Facebook statement, Mr. Nomane praised the Minister's swift action, saying it was an important first step towards restoring public confidence."We thank Minister Wake Goi for suspending all the SME funding and calling for a full and independent investigation into the alleged SME corruption," Mr. Nomane said.He also acknowledged Prime Minister James Marape for the recent Cabinet reshuffle and urged the Government to allow investigators to carry out their work independently."We thank the Prime Minister for the decision he made on changing the Minister and knowing that police investigations are looking into these fraud allegations, we ask that the Government allow for a full and independent investigation to take place without any interference, fear or favour," he said.Mr. Nomane said time is a valuable resource and argued that any delay in delivering genuine SME support represents a missed opportunity for Papua New Guineans."Yesterday won't come back, and this is why the SME funding was a missed opportunity for the people of Papua New Guinea. If the right people had been appointed based on merit to manage this program, our people could have benefited from the start-up capital and the opportunities that come with economic growth," he said.The Opposition Leader concluded by encouraging Papua New Guineans to make informed decisions when electing leaders, saying the country's future depends on appointing capable people to positions of responsibility."It's our country, so people must properly vote."The Department of Commerce and Industry has suspended most SME funding transactions while investigations into the allegations continue.

The National Parliament has officially launched its new website aimed at making parliamentary information more accessible, transparent and readily available to all citizens across the country.The website, launched today 22nd July 22, 2026, with support from the UNDP and the PNG Australia Partnership's Stap Wantaim initiative, is designed to provide easier access to parliamentary proceedings, legislation, committee reports and other official information in real time.Delivering the keynote address, Acting Speaker of Parliament Koni Iguan described the website as "a new window into the soul of democracy," saying it reflects Parliament's commitment to openness, transparency, accessibility and timely communication."Openness means that every citizen, whether sitting in an office in Port Moresby, a school classroom in Mount Hagen or a home in a remote village in Western Province, can access Parliament. Transparency means Parliament's decisions; Bills, Hansard reports and committee updates are not hidden behind administrative red tape but are made clear to the public."Mr. Iguan said the digital platform will help bridge the gap between Parliament and the people by ensuring citizens can follow parliamentary business as it happens."A Parliament that operates in the dark or behind walls of delayed information creates a disconnect between the government and the governed. This new website is our pledge to tear down those invisible walls. It is our commitment to ensuring that the House of the People is truly accessible by the people as we embrace technology."He said the website has been designed to serve ordinary Papua New Guineans, including students, mothers, community leaders and citizens living in remote parts of the country, by providing clear and accessible parliamentary information.Mr. Iguan also acknowledged the efforts of the Parliament Service, led by the Clerk of Parliament, and the technical teams who worked to deliver the project."I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to our Parliament Service, led by the Clerk of Parliament, and the technical teams who worked tirelessly to bring this project to reality."Reflecting on Papua New Guinea's journey over the past five decades, Mr. Iguan referenced the writings of Grand Chief Sir Albert Maori Kiki, saying the nation has made remarkable progress in a single generation and must continue embracing innovation to strengthen democracy."Let us carry forward the spirit of Sir Albert Maori Kiki and our founding fathers, continuing to make extraordinary leaps in our own lifetime for the betterment of our people."The launch of the website marks another step in Parliament's efforts to modernize its services, improve public engagement, and ensure citizens have greater access to the work of the country's highest legislative institution.

The Consultative Implementation and Monitoring Council (CIMC) Natural Resources Sectoral Committee has brought together government agencies, development partners and industry stakeholders to review progress and identify concrete actions aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea's natural resources sector.The meeting, held today at Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby, marked the Committee's fourth sectoral meeting since its restoration in 2025 and focused on reviewing action items from previous meetings while addressing emerging priorities across forestry, fisheries, land administration, biodiversity conservation and climate change.Speaking at the opening, CIMC Executive Officer Wallis Yakam said the meeting provides an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen coordination and ensure agreed priorities are translated into practical outcomes."The meeting is a vital mechanism for stakeholders to align, review current action items and address the coordination gaps that hold the natural resource sector back. By strengthening collaboration across government, industry and civil society, we can modernise our laws and deliver balanced economic, environmental and social outcomes for our country," Mrs. Yakam said.Among the key presentations was an update from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), highlighting its work to accelerate sustainable community development and renewable resource management across Papua New Guinea.UNDP Assistant Representative for Environment and Climate Change, Joshua Sam, said collaboration remains central to achieving long-term sustainable development."Our approach is very similar to the same commitment that this committee has already made. We want to work and collaborate with everyone who is working in the sector, and we hope we can have an impact from policy right down to very remote communities across the country," Mr. Sam said.The Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) also presented updates on Papua New Guinea's REDD+ program and climate finance priorities, outlining ongoing work to strengthen policy frameworks, carbon market readiness, international reporting and institutional capacity to support sustainable forest management and climate resilience.CCDA Manager for REDD+, Terence Barambi, said continued collaboration across government agencies will be critical as Papua New Guinea advances its climate finance and forest conservation agenda.The meeting is expected to conclude with stakeholders agreeing on concrete actions to guide future work across forestry, land administration, fisheries, biodiversity conservation and climate change.

On Sunday, July 19, Spain became FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina but for football fans around the world, it wasn't just the result that captured attention.It was a remarkable series of "19" connections surrounding Spain's young star, Lamine Yamal. Yamal who just turned 19 years old, wore Spain's number 19 jersey, and lifted the World Cup on July 19. Even more remarkably, 19 years earlier, he had appeared as a baby alongside Lionel Messi in a UNICEF charity photoshoot.What began as an ordinary charity campaign in 2007 has since become one of football's most talked about stories.At the time, Messi was a 20-year-old Barcelona star with a bright future ahead of him. No one could have imagined that the baby in his arms would one day become one of football's brightest talents and help Spain win the World Cup against Messi's Argentina nearly two decades later.Across social media, football fans highlighted the remarkable "19" coincidences, with many describing them as an extraordinary example of synchronicity and the symbolic passing of the torch from Lionel Messi to Lamine Yamal.Supporters pointed to the unusual alignment: the charity photo was taken 19 years before Spain's triumph, Yamal wore number 19, Just turned 19, and the final was played on July 19. Whether viewed as coincidence, synchronicity or simply an extraordinary sequence of events, the pattern has fascinated football supporters worldwide. Beyond the numbers, however, the story reflects one of football's greatest traditions with the passing of generations. Lionel Messi defined an era, winning almost every major honour in the game, including the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Lamine Yamal now represents the emergence of a new generation, carrying the hopes of Spain and millions of young football fans around the world. The photograph of Messi holding baby Yamal has since evolved from a simple charity image into a symbol of football's unpredictable journey.No one can say whether the connections mean anything beyond coincidence.But football has always been about more than trophies and statistics. It lives through emotion, unforgettable moments and stories that become part of the game's folklore.For many football fans, the story of Lamine Yamal, the baby once photographed with Lionel Messi who returned 19 years later as a World Cup champion, has become one of the most remarkable narratives to emerge from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

What looked like a day of games and friendly competition at IBS University was, in reality, a practical lesson in business, giving secondary school students a chance to experience the skills needed beyond the classroom.Ten (10) secondary schools from the NCD and Central Province gathered for the 3rd IBS University Management Fest, an initiative designed to build leadership, confidence, critical thinking and entrepreneurship through interactive business challenges.Held on Friday, July 17, students stepped away from their classroom learning and into real world business scenarios through activities including Business Pitch, Business and Math Quiz, Map Wizard, As Manager, Recycle Mania, Selfie Reel, Minute to Win It and Ramp Walk.The event was organised by students from the School of Business Management (SOBM) and members of the IBSU Business Entrepreneurs School Association (BESA) under the leadership of SOBM Student President and BESA CEO Daniella Katu.Months of preparation went into organising the festival, beginning with invitations sent to around 20 schools across NCD and Central Province. Eleven schools accepted the invitation, bringing together hundreds of students eager to test their abilities outside the classroom."We started by inviting around 20 schools and received responses from 11," Daniella said."Our team handled everything, from sending invitations and organising decorations to assigning facilitators for every activity."Daniella said every challenge was carefully designed to help students develop practical skills required in business and everyday life."Anything you think a businessperson should have, we're trying to develop through these activities."Rather than focusing solely on competition, the organisers wanted students to discover their strengths while encouraging teamwork, communication and problem solving.Daniella said the greatest success of the festival would not be measured by trophies, but by the confidence students take back to their schools and communities."We want our students to become more confident so they can return to their schools, lead their communities and create positive change," she said.She added that he hopes many participants will one day continue their education at IBS University and pursue careers in business and entrepreneurship.For many students, the event provided their first opportunity to experience business beyond textbooks.And speaking with PNG Haus Bung is a group of students from Koiari Park Adventist Secondary School, that participated in the Selfie Reel challenge, they said the activities were both enjoyable and educational."The experience was really good. At least now we have a better idea of how to promote our products in the future."While the Management Fest concluded with prizes and celebrations, its greatest achievement may have been inspiring students to think differently about leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship.

NCDC Social Development Directorate has donated K50,000 worth of musical instruments and PA system to Bomana CS Prison to strengthen one of the institution's key rehabilitation programs that helps inmates reconnect with communities through the prison ministry outreach and awareness activities within Port Moresby.While receiving the instruments on July 16th 2026, Bomana Prison Commanding Officer Chief Superintendent Yelly Oiufa thanked NCDC and said the donation would significantly strengthen the prison ministry and noted that ministry has changed a lot of inmates in Bomana and as become a key activity in rehabilitating inmates.He said rehabilitation is about more than serving a prison sentence.It is about helping inmates reflect on their actions, change their behaviour and prepare for life after prison and the ministry has played a significant role in that.Chief Superintendent Oiufa said the prison ministry gives inmates an opportunity to share their testimony with communities through outreach, awareness programs in the city."We have to play our part in making the city a better place to live because many of the inmates who have come in here have already changed," he said.He said one of the biggest challenges facing the ministry has been the lack of reliable musical equipment, with ageing instruments requiring constant repairs while transport and operational costs have limited outreach activities."There are many talented musicians inside but one thing that we needed badly was musical instruments because when live music is played during outreach programs in public areas, it attracts people and that's when the message can be shared with the wider community," he said.Chief Superintendent Oiufa said the new equipment will now allow inmate rehabilitation teams to independently conduct outreach and community awareness programs across Port MoresbyRepresenting NCDC's Social Development Directorate, Director Benson Hahambu described the donation as another important step in the MOU between NCDC and Bomana Prison "This presentation follows the dialogue that we have started as we move towards a solid partnership. The MOU is currently with our legal team for final vetting," he said.Mr Hahambu said once the MoU is finalised, it will provide a framework for additional rehabilitation pathways These include support for inmates who wish to continue their education through Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE), as well as opportunities under NCDC's Community Development Directorate to help former inmates transition into community-based contract work after their release."Within one of our divisions, we have pathways to support education. For inmates who want to continue with school, we can support them," he said.The donation, made through the directorate's Family, Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (FGEWE) Branch.Acting Manager for the Family, Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Branch Lucia Komatep said the donation reflects NCDC's commitment to building safer communities through rehabilitation.She said the musical equipment will strengthen inmate outreach programs that promote respect for women and girls, peaceful communities, and responsible citizenship.Ms Komatep said inmates' personal experiences carry powerful messages that can discourage crime and inspire positive behavioural change, particularly among young people.She encouraged inmates to use the equipment responsibly and continue serving as ambassadors for rehabilitation within the community.For Bomana Prison, the donation represents more than new musical instruments.It strengthens one of the institution's key rehabilitation programs, using music, faith and community engagement to help inmates rebuild their lives while encouraging safer and stronger communities in Port Moresby