Buk bilong Pikinini extends heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Andrew Dare, outgoing General Manager of Hastings Deering PNG & Solomon Islands, for his exceptional leadership and unwavering support in advancing childhood literacy in Papua New Guinea. Since the beginning of Buk bilong Pikinini’s partnership with Hastings Deering, Mr. Dare has played an instrumental role in ensuring the provision of secure storage for literacy materials. His leadership has facilitated the storage and distribution of over a million books, impacting more than 800 schools and communities across PNG. Annually, up to 200,000 books are dispatched, providing children with access to quality educational resources. As a Board Director and former Vice-Chair of Buk bilong Pikinini, Mr. Dare has championed various literacy initiatives, including the storage of 185,000 books and educational resources in Hastings Deering’s Hohola facility. Eighty percent of these books were published by Buk bilong Pikinini, including the collaborative publication, WHEN I GROW UP, I WANT TO BE A HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, inspiring young minds to dream big. Buk bilong Pikinini’s Executive Officer praised Andrew Dare, stated; "Andrew’s commitment has been invaluable, ensuring children across PNG have the resources to develop their literacy skills.” "His impact extended beyond logistics with Hastings Deering, under his leadership, donated 10,000 books to remote communities in Teleformin and Tabubil, directly contributing to education in underprivileged areas." Further strengthening the partnership, Hastings Deering hosted student excursions, allowing young learners to explore and engage with heavy machinery, broadening their career aspirations and knowledge. As Andrew Dare prepares to return to Australia, Buk bilong Pikinini acknowledges his tireless dedication and generosity. His contribution to the Board of Directors has left an enduring impact, ensuring that children in PNG continue to benefit from early childhood education programs and library services. Mr. Dare’s legacy will remain a cornerstone of Buk bilong Pikinini’s success. His efforts have transformed literacy access for thousands of children, and his influence will be felt for years to come. The organisational extends its deepest appreciation and best wishes for his future endeavors.

For generations, the Vanagi Race has been more than just a competition—it is a celebration of the Motu-Koita people's canoe-making skills and an essential part of their heritage. This year, Trukai Industries Limited (TIL) has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving this cultural tradition by renewing its Naming Rights Sponsorship for the fourth consecutive year with a K80,000 sponsorship. The Trukai Vanagi Race is set to take place on Saturday, April 5, at Era Kone, Ela Beach. By showcasing the true test of strength, endurance, and teamwork. The last year’s event saw 60 canoes compete, with Ankit Jalova securing first place in the A Grade Category, followed by Saubolo and Heraky in second and third place, respectively. This year, the race is expected to welcome over 50 canoes and 160 participants, promising another thrilling competition. Trukai Industries' Marketing Manager, Peggy Maha, highlighted the importance of the company’s support and stated that, “The Vanagi Race is a celebration of traditional skills honed over time and is an integral part of the Motu-Koita people's identity” Maha then shared her excitement for Trukai being the naming rights sponsorships for four consecutive years, “Trukai is proud to be the Naming Rights Sponsor for this iconic event, and we look forward to another spectacular race this year.” The K80,000 sponsorship will contribute towards prize money for winners and operational costs to ensure a successful event. “We wish all participants the best of luck as we anticipate a fast and competitive finish on the waters of Ela Beach, and we also encourage the Port Moresby community to come out and support this historic and thrilling event.” On behalf of the Motu Koita Assembly Chairman, Dadi Toka Jr., Hiri Moale Festival Organizing Committee Chairperson, Mrs. Molly O’Rourke, expressed gratitude for Trukai’s ongoing partnership: “Your commitment to this event not only brings the culture of this event alive, but it also brings communities and villages together to celebrate the Hiri Moale Festival.” "Let us come together once again to celebrate another successful event, especially as we approach Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary.” The Vanagi Race Coordinator, Mr. John Podi, shared updates on the event’s growing participation. “We already have 20+ registered canoes, and we expect this number to reach 50 by the end of the week.” Podi then thanked Trukai for the continued sponsorship, “Thanks to Trukai’s support, we are able to provide prizes and incentives that motivate our sailors and keep this historic race alive.” The Trukai Vanagi Race, the Hiri Moale Festival’s main sporting event, promises to be an unforgettable battle on the water, with stronger winds, bigger waves, and fierce new challenges. Trukai Industries Ltd. remains deeply committed to supporting initiatives that uphold cultural traditions, and the company looks forward to witnessing another exciting and competitive race on April 5, 2025.

The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) has secured a major sponsorship worth K1.25 million from Kumul Minerals Holdings Ltd (KMHL). This historic partnership was officially announced yesterday at Tribes Coffee Club in Port Moresby city. In a formal event, KMHL’s Manager Director for External Affairs, Mr. Philip Manda, presented the cheque to BFPNG President, Mr. David Peter, and BFPNG Patron, Mr. Charles Able. Mr. Manda emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that basketball is deeply rooted in the country but remains an untapped sport. "It is a significant moment for us at KMHL to collaborate with basketball and enhance the sporting landscape in our country. Basketball is played in every village, church, school, and community, yet its potential has not been fully realized. We are excited to partner with BFPNG to nurture this talent," he said. BFPNG Patron, Mr. Charles Able, expressed gratitude to KMHL for their commitment to supporting the sport at both national and international levels. "The backing and sponsorship provided will not only propel basketball and PNG onto the global stage but will also significantly impact the local sports scene," he said. BFPNG President, Mr. David Peter, also extended his appreciation to KMHL, highlighting that the sponsorship will allow PNG to compete in major international events. "With KMHL's support, our national team will take part in four key competitions this year. These include the 3x3 Asia Cup in Singapore, the Mini Pacific Games in Palau, the FIBA Melanesian Cup, and the FIBA U17 Championships," he said. This financial backing will also enhance BFPNG’s National Championships and Regional Championships, providing more opportunities for players across the country. The funds will be allocated to support both local and international events, further growing the sport in PNG. Basketball has long been a popular sport in PNG, played in communities across the nation. However, a lack of funding and resources has limited its growth. With KMHL stepping in as the major sponsor, there is now a renewed hope that basketball will reach new heights in the country. BFPNG officials believe this partnership will not only benefit elite athletes but also inspire young players to take up the sport and compete at higher levels. The investment in basketball is expected to create more training programs, tournaments, and pathways for PNG athletes to shine on the international stage.

The Brahman Rugby League Competition in Madang Province has been boosted with a financial support of K15, 000 presented by the Madang Provincial Member Ramsey Pariwa recently. The competition held in the Usino – Bundi district stands to be the only rugby competition in Madang to be affiliated with the PNG Rugby Football League. Recognizing the growing talents in the province, Governor Pariwa follows a commitment he made last year when he visited Brahman Catholic mission station where he had a chance to watch the grand finals of this newly organized Rugby League competition. During that time last year, Governor Pariwa assisted the competition by purchasing trophies and presented them K15, 000 on which he made a commitment to assist the league this year. The President of Brahman Rugby League, Candy Siwi said the league was established in 2023 in a predominantly soccer playing community in Usino-Bundi district of Madang; however, last year’s visit by the Madang Governor to the remote community at Brahman, sparked the interests amongst youths to now turn to rugby league. Secretary of Highlands Confederate, Joe Kumul said with the funding assistance from Governor Pariwa, it now gives them the naming right to call their district competition the ‘PARIWA CUP’. Kumul said rural leagues in Usino-Bundi district such as Bundi, Snow Pass, Walium, Ramu Sugar and Enekuai in Kurumbukari, have already expressed interest to participate in the Pariwa Cup challenge, which kicks off in June this year. He further stated that they are expecting teams from all corners of the Usino-Bundi district to take part in the challenge. Then Governor Pariwa said the Madang Provincial Government would continue to support Brahman Rugby League since it is the only competition that is sanctioned by the PNG Rugby Football League. He then added that if the competition is run successfully with a good report being presented then his office would continue to support the rugby league competition mainly to involve youths in sporting activities and keeping them busy and be useful citizens in their respective communities. The Secretary of Brahman Rugby League, Peter Akunfi thanked Governor Pariwa for his vision to support the rural sports association in such as far off place.

The Cricket PNG selectors have announced the 18-Player Garamuts Squad for the Tour to Brisbane in March, supported by the Australian Government. The Papua New Guinea U19 Garmut's have been stepping up their training efforts in the final weeks of preparation for an important international tour in Brisbane and the coming ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup in East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Division 1 Qualifier in Japan. The tour to Brisbane is made possible thanks to the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports partnership with Cricket Australia, which supports high-performance cricket across the Pacific and strengthens people-to-people connections in the region. This includes providing access to high-level competitions for talented players like the Garamuts. Captain of the Garamuts Team, Gaba Frank expressed confidence in the team's progress, highlighting a significant improvement in their training standards compared to previous years. “The players have stepped up with more commitment and effort in training, focusing on skill-building. Compared to previous years, our training has improved, and even our coach has been up to date with us,” Frank said. Frank, a right-arm leg spinner and left-hand batsman, is leading the Garamuts for the second time and is eager to take on the challenge. “Last year I was nervous, but this year I am confident. Seeing the team working hard and smart, with Coach Kila Pala always cheering us on, I know we are ready. I am ready to captain our Garamuts team to Australia and later to Japan for the EAP Qualifiers,” he added. Coach Kila Pala provided insights into the team's structured training program, which includes separate sessions for students and non-students in preparation for the Brisbane trip and lead up to EAP Qualifiers in Japan. “We are now in our fourth week of training, preparing for the Brisbane tour. Morning sessions are for non-students, while students train in the afternoons. Our schedule includes turf training on Wednesdays, center wicket sessions on Thursdays, light training on Fridays, and full 50-over matches on weekends.” The initial 24-member training squad has now been trimmed by the Cricket PNG Selectors to 18 players for their preparation tour to Brisbane from 14 to 24 March. With Gaba Frank as captain and Dauncy Tom as vice-captain, the selectors have retained the same Garamuts leadership from the successful ICC East Asia-Pacific Division 2 Qualifier in August 2024. With the support of Queensland Cricket through the recently signed MOU with Cricket PNG, the tour will include a minimum of four matches against select Queensland Cricket teams, to be played at top grade club grounds around Brisbane. Cricket PNG CEO, Richard Done shared his gratitude for the Australian Government. “Our thanks go to the Australian government for supporting the Cricket PNG U19 Garamuts’ Brisbane tour through the PacificAus Sports partnership with Cricket Australia. The Australian Government’s continued contribution to cricket in PNG is hugely appreciated and we are looking forward to testing ourselves in Brisbane in preparation for the Qualifiers in Japan.” The tour will allow the Garamuts Coach, Kila Pala, and PNG Youth Selector, Hudson Leka, to see the players under competitive match situations, before selecting the final Garamuts Team for the EAP Division 1 Qualifier by the ICC deadline of 25 March. The selected Garamuts Squad for Brisbane includes the 14 standout players from last year’s Division 2 Qualifier. GARAMUT 18 MEN TEAM LIST WITH PLAYER ROLES Gaba FRANK (captain) LHB / RALS Dauncey TOM (vice-captain) LHB Aluend Robson BOGE LHB / RAOS Anthony Tamarua DAVID RHB - RAM Rarua DIKANA JNR LHB - RAM Dai MAHURU LHB Sam MOMO LHB / RAM Igo MOREA LHB / LAFM Stuart MOREA RHB / RAFM Vagi Vani MOREA RHB / RAOS Frank Collin NAIME RHB Lekwa NAO LHB / WK Toua Boge NOU RHB / RAOS Wallace NOU RHB / RAOS Oala PUKA RHB / LAOS David TARAKA RHB - RAM Puka RAHO RHB / LAFM Ware ROBBIN RHB / RAFM The selectors also named three non-travelling reserves, William Frank, Miria Griffin, and Nou Geita in case replacements are required.

In a groundbreaking move, FIFA has announced that the 2026 World Cup final will feature its first-ever halftime show, drawing inspiration from the NFL's Super Bowl extravaganzas. The initiative aims to blend world-class football with top-tier musical entertainment, making the final an even bigger spectacle for global audiences. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament will take place in three different countries. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed the halftime show development, stating, "This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world." To curate the event, FIFA has partnered with the British band Coldplay. Lead vocalist Chris Martin and creative director Phil Harvey will work with FIFA to finalize the lineup of artists performing during the halftime show. This collaboration is also part of a four-year partnership with Global Citizen, an international advocacy group focused on combating extreme poverty. The introduction of a halftime show presents some logistical challenges, as football's traditional halftime break lasts only 15 minutes—much shorter than the extended break seen in Super Bowl performances. FIFA has not yet confirmed whether the match break will be extended to accommodate the show. Fan reactions have been mixed. While some welcome the addition of entertainment to the World Cup final, others argue that the focus should remain solely on the match. Critics caution that altering the halftime structure could disrupt the rhythm of the game and distract from the sport's traditions. Additionally, FIFA has announced plans to take over New York's Times Square during the final weekend, organizing fan-focused events to amplify the tournament's celebratory atmosphere. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, FIFA's initiative reflects a shift toward integrating broader entertainment elements into football’s most prestigious event, catering to evolving audience preferences and the sport’s growing global appeal. Source: ESPN

Hundreds of Motu Koitabu students achieved a major milestone just recently, graduating from the Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) program run by the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF). A total of 173 students from Hanuabada, Pari, Taurama, and surrounding areas proudly gathered at Ruatoka Memorial Hall to celebrate their academic accomplishments. Grade 12 graduate Iamo Kidu reflected on the life-changing impact of FODE, stating, “Graduates, we made it. We are proof that opportunity, when seized, can change everything.” Kidu then acknowledged the struggles many students face in completing their education but highlighted that this program provided a crucial second chance. The significance of his words was evident in the excitement and pride shared among graduates and attendees. KTF CEO Dr. Genevieve Nelson commended the students for their resilience, emphasizing while crediting the success of the imitative. “We are so proud to support these committed students on their FODE journeys. Whether upgrading their results for further studies or completing their secondary education, we celebrate each one of them.” A key force behind the program's success has been the collaborative efforts of the Motu Koita Assembly, Dame Carol Kidu, Kina Bank, the Sir Theo Foundation, and the Canadian government. Dadi Toka, Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly, along with representatives from partner organizations, attended the ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the graduates. Kina Bank CEO & MD, Ivan Vidovich, reiterated the institution’s commitment to supporting education while his remarks underscored the long-term investment in education as a pathway to prosperity. “Kina Bank takes pride in fostering programs that positively impact the lives of Papua New Guineans. Beyond banking services, we aim to uplift communities, and our support of FODE aligns with this vision.” George Constantinou, Group Chairman and Governing Director of the Sir Theo Foundation, echoed these sentiments, by expressing this imitative as an inspiration. “Seeing over 170 students complete their education through KTF’s FODE Centres is truly inspiring. My family believes education is key to improving livelihoods in PNG, and we are proud to contribute to this cause.” Since its inception in 2023, the Motu Koita FODE program has expanded, with new partnerships in 2024 bringing educational opportunities to Pari and Taurama communities. The program’s continued growth highlights its transformative role in providing accessible and quality education. As KTF remains committed to empowering individuals through second-chance education, this milestone marks not just an academic achievement but a powerful step toward a brighter future for Motu Koitabu students and the wider community.

In a powerful display of teamwork and environmental stewardship, Hilton Port Moresby and the Valley Hunters Rugby Club joined forces on March 8, 2025, to mark World Wildlife Day with a hands-on conservation initiative at Port Moresby Nature Park. Players, hotel staff, and volunteers came together to plant trees, restore habitats, and take part in educational sessions on wildlife conservation. This collaboration was part of Hilton’s Travel with Purpose program, which focuses on sustainability and community-driven initiatives. Speaking at the event, Florida Gulaseni, Hilton Port Moresby’s Marketing and Communications Manager, highlighted the significance of the partnership, "This program is part of Hilton’s global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, which aims to create a positive impact on the environment and the communities where we operate. By supporting sustainable tourism and providing opportunities for local communities, we are driving meaningful change.” For the Valley Hunters Rugby Club, the event was an opportunity to give back beyond the rugby field. Co-Captain Jonah Tokiong shared an inspiring message, quoting Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Then he took this time also to share the team's aims and their next collaboration program with Hilton, "Our team is built on values of discipline, teamwork, and community service. Partnering with Hilton for this conservation effort allows us to use our platform for a greater purpose. We’re also looking forward to continuing this partnership in June for Operation Open Heart Foundation, where we will support Hilton’s next charitable initiative.” As Papua New Guinea’s only internationally recognized wildlife park, Port Moresby Nature Park plays a crucial role in conservation and education. Hosting over 130,000 visitors annually, the park has earned multiple international awards for its work in preserving the country’s unique biodiversity. Francis Gundu, Acting Conservation Manager at the park, expressed his gratitude for the volunteers. "On behalf of our management team, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Hilton and the Valley Hunters Rugby Club for their support. Initiatives like these are essential in protecting PNG’s wildlife and ensuring future generations can experience our country’s natural beauty." What started as a simple day of volunteering became a powerful reminder of how teamwork and community involvement can drive meaningful change. By uniting for a common cause, Hilton Port Moresby, Valley Hunters Rugby Club, and Port Moresby Nature Park have set an inspiring example, one that proves small actions today can create a legacy for tomorrow.

In a heartfelt celebration of International Women's Day on March 8, 2025, local artist Mereani Masani extended her compassion to the female inmates at Bomana Correctional Service in Port Moresby. Embracing the global theme "Accelerate Action," Masani orchestrated a memorable event aimed at uplifting and honoring the incarcerated women. Despite the short notice, Masani's dedication was evident as she organized the visit within a week. Supported by her family and close friends, the initiative transformed the prison environment into a festive setting. Budget Planners, led by Reuben, adorned the venue in purple—the official color of this year's International Women's Day—symbolizing justice and dignity. Coca-Cola generously sponsored the beverages, ensuring the attendees enjoyed refreshing drinks throughout the day. The culinary delights were a testament to familial love and unity, with Masani's family preparing an array of traditional Papua New Guinean dishes. The buffet featured garden-fresh produce, roasted pig, and an assortment of fruits, allowing the inmates to indulge in a meal reminiscent of home. This gesture aimed to provide a sense of normalcy and joy, contrasting their routine meals. Local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) also played a pivotal role, sponsoring the provision of chairs and tables, ensuring comfort for all participants. The day's program included live entertainment, with Masani and her band performing, creating an atmosphere of celebration and connection. Reflecting on the event, Masani shared, "I just want them to have a great time," emphasizing her desire to make the day special for the female inmates. And to show her gratitude, Sergeant Officer Rose Kanama, who served for 39 years with the Correctional Service, expressed profound appreciation for the initiative. She remarked, "For many years, 39 years in the service, I've never seen this. It's the first time... bringing the hotel back to Bomana." Kanama highlighted that previous donation often involved external parties providing food, but the prison staff handled the setup. In contrast, Masani's team managed every detail, transforming the environment and uplifting the spirits of both inmates and staff. Kanama added, "Today, I am very happy... it shows that there's a beautiful future out there even with all the violence against women currently happening in the country." "There's hope and this gift from Mereani is sign of this hope for better future for women in Papua New Guinea." Masani's initiative underscores the spirit of International Women's Day, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and support for all women, regardless of their circumstances. Her actions not only brought joy to the inmates but also served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to uplift and empower every woman in society.

PNG Namba Wan Trophy Limited (NWTL), through its Green Angels Appeal, has provided a new ambulance to National St John Ambulance PNG, enhancing emergency response for communities in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province. The Green Angels Appeal, which ran from June to December 2024, successfully raised K273,163 thanks to the generous contributions of corporate sponsors and community members. This funding allowed St John to acquire a fully equipped ambulance, which has already responded to over 1,500 emergencies, demonstrating the urgent need for better medical transport. The official handover in October 2024 saw the presence of key representatives, including St John Ambulance PNG’s Director of Operations Logistics, Monni Cross, MBE, and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Mangu Kendino. Representing NWTL Group were Amy Tomlinson, General Manager of Retail, Trish Toua, and other company members. Amy Tomlinson emphasized NWTL’s dedication to supporting healthcare and first responders. “At NWTL Group, we believe that a safe and healthy community is the foundation of progress." "Partnering with St John Ambulance is a responsibility we take seriously,” she stated. She further elaborated on the mission of the Green Angels Appeal. "This initiative was launched to raise awareness and funds for St John’s essential services." "Beyond financial support, it’s about standing with those who dedicate their lives to helping others and ensuring they have the resources needed to provide top-tier care.” On behalf of NWTL leadership, she expressed deep appreciation for all donors. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jim and Yolande Gui, the NWTL Group, and every individual and business that contributed." "Your support has made this possible.” Celebrating the initiative’s success, she remarked, “This ambulance represents more than just transport; it is a symbol of hope for those in urgent need.” “The Green Angels Appeal is ongoing, and we urge continued community support. Donations can be made through the St John website.” Dr. Mangu Kendino highlighted the importance of collaboration between corporations and the community. “This ambulance is a testament to the power of partnerships." "It strengthens emergency care and ensures that every call for help is met with action.” She also stressed the impact of this addition to St John’s fleet. “With over 35,000 emergency calls last year, many had to wait due to limited resources." "This ambulance will significantly improve response times, particularly in Central Province, where urgent medical care is often out of reach.” Dr. Kendino concluded by expressing her appreciation. “We are immensely grateful to NWTL and all who contributed to the Green Angels Appeal." "Your support is saving lives.” The Green Angels Appeal stands as a powerful example of corporate and community solidarity, ensuring that essential services like St John Ambulance remain equipped to continue their life-saving work.

The National Rugby League (NRL) in Papua New Guinea, in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), the Australian Government through Team Up, and the PNG-Australia Partnership, hosted a special event today at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex in celebration of International Women’s Day. Under the 2025 theme, “Accelerating Action”, the event focused on empowering young girls through sports and life skills. One hundred female students from ten selected schools in Port Moresby participated in a day filled with learning, mentorship, and fun rugby-related activities. Inspiring Keynote Address was the notable guest speaker, Ms. Della Audama, one of the pioneering PNG Orchids players from 2017 and now the PNGRFL High-Performance Female Coordinator, shared her journey in rugby league and encouraged the girls to embrace opportunities in sports and beyond. Skill-Based Activities – Participants engaged in structured drills designed to teach not only rugby league basics but also essential life values such as teamwork, leadership, and confidence. Power Meri Screening – The girls watched Power Meri, a documentary showcasing the struggles and triumphs of PNG’s female rugby players, followed by discussions on women’s empowerment in sports. Celebratory Cake Cutting – The event concluded with the symbolic cutting of the International Women’s Day cake and a token of appreciation to the schools, with each receiving two rugby league balls to promote the sport among students. Speaking on the event’s purpose, PNG NRL Lead Games Development Officer, Lancy Laki, emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for young girls to explore their potential in sports. “This event is about more than just rugby league." "It’s about showing these young girls that they belong, that they have a voice, and that they are capable of achieving greatness—just like their male counterparts,” Laki said. Over the years, the NRL in PNG has seen increasing support for female participation in sports, with more teachers, fathers, and male students attending and encouraging the girls. While the event focused on fun learning experiences rather than competitive matches, it reinforced the message that girls have a place in rugby league and all areas of life. Funded through the Australian Government’s Team Up initiative, PNG NRL has been running sports-for-development programs since 2013, using rugby league as a tool to teach values and promote gender equality. With continued backing from PNGRFL, Team Up, and the PNG-Australia Partnership, the initiative aims to expand its reach and inspire more young girls to break barriers in sports and leadership.

Today to celebrate the International Women's Day at Lamana Hotel the Port Moresby EU Head of Delegation and Ambassador H.E. Mr. Jacques Fardin signed two Human Rights Thematic grant contracts to support women’s economic empowerment in PNG. The signing will support two projects that will be implemented by World Vision and the Specialty Coffee Association of PNG with each receiving 3.5 million kina on their projects to support women economic empowerment in PNG. This year the International Women’s Day is themed as, “Accelerate Action” underlines these two projects that will be carried out by the World Vision PNG and Specialty Coffee Association. World Vision PNG project “ Sapotim Strongpla Meri "will support 150 women entrepreneurs in Autonomous Region of Bougainville in focus of Marketing accessibility, transition process from informal to formal business and Property Investment and ownership in aims to recognize women in business. While Specialty Coffee Association project focus on training women to enhance access their skills in coffee with farming and facility processing which will be taken up in 7 provinces in the highland's region with the aim to teach each woman in the coffee business with entrepreneurial service, financial service and business leadership. These two projects that is now supported by EU falls under the United Nation’s campaign around International Women’s Day this year, emphasizes the need to accelerate action to achieve gender equality with the theme, “For all Women and Girl’s empowerment” underlines the increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres. But despite the progress, women and girls’ rights continue to be violated around the world including in Papua New Guinea. So, to address these ongoing challenges, the European Union has developed the roadmap for Women’s Right, a strategic plan focused on advancing gender equality by combating gender-based violence, protecting women’s and girls’ rights and ensuring equal opportunities in all areas of society. This is reflected in the EU’s targeted support, which provides funding exclusively to PNG Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working to promote human rights. The EU sees CSOs as the crucial for human rights, democracy and satiability, helping to improve livelihoods, support small producers and women’s and shape polices that reduce inequalities. As CSO’s promote accountability, human rights and transparency by providing free information and monitoring governance, corruption and policy impact. Back in 2024, the EU delegation launched a call for proposal focused on ‘Women’s Economic Empowerment and Leadership,’ aiming to remove barriers to market access, investment and business development for women, including marginalized groups, youths and those with disabilities. The initiative promotes inclusive economic opportunities and supports the transition from informal to small or medium-sized businesses and to support this initiative in PNG, EU signs two Human Rights Thematic grants contracts supporting 'Women's Economic Empowerment' by commemorating the International Women's Day. Present on today’s signing at Lamana Hotel in joining H.E. Mr. Jacques Fradin, is World Vision PNG National Director Chris JENSEN and Mr. Ken PEP from the Specialty Coffee Association and this was witnessed by the Minister for Security and Bougainville Regional MP, Peter Tsiamalili. And to conclude, the EU Port Moresby Head of Delegation/Ambassador thanked World Vision and Specialty Coffee Association of PNG, the Government of Papua New Guinea, and civil society for their strong collaboration in advancing protecting human rights, equal opportunity and gender equality.