Fish Farming is booming in the Highlands Region with more and more farmers shifting from poultry and livestock to farming fish. This is because local farmers have seen the benefits of fish farming both economy and food security wise. This year alone about 50 plus farmers have turned their land into fishponds in Western Highlands Province and in the Southern Highlands Province. This was revealed by Mr. Jacob Towa, Fish Technical Advisor and owner of Towa Fish Hatchery. “I am helping new farmers to start their ponds, and I provide technical support to them, and my job has taken me as far as Hela Province to help set up new fish farms.” “I am more focused on fish farmers in Western Highlands Province and Southern Highlands Province which are closer to me, so at the moment the fish farmers in Tari are in need of a technical officer who can direct and guide them in their fish farming projects.” Towa also highlighted that Southern Highlands Province needs Trout Hatchery to boost their trout farm projects which are now developing in Southern Highlands. Currently there is only one Trout Hatchery in the Highlands Region and that Hatchery is in Simbu Province at the Betty Lodge in Mt Wilhelm. “We want to build a Trout Hatchery in SHP, to make it easier for the transfer of trout fingerlings to small trout farms because often times the transferring of trout fingerlings are very risky because if not handled well, the fingerlings die and sometimes it's just security precautions for long distance drive.” Building a Trout Hatchery in SHP will make it easy for Trout farmers in SHP, Upper Western Highlanders and those in Hela Province, that is in the plan and hopefully we can archive that in 2025, said Mr. Towa. Mr. Towa added that currently there are about 6 major suppliers of Fingerlings to all fish farms in all districts here in Jiwaka Province, and this goes to show how fish farming is taking over the Highlands Region. “Right now, I am ready to supply about 20,000 fish fingerlings to a Farm in Kagamuga which was recently certified by National Fisheries Authority as a Commercial Fresh Water Fish Farm.” “Another 50,000 fingerlings will be sent to Togoba Secondary school, which will also benefit the local fish farmers living around the school vicinity.” Towa said he is happy to see schools digging up fishponds for their agriculture classes and he is very much excited as well because more youths have now taken up fish farming. “The Marape Rosso Government’s policy on Take back PNG and the focus on the Agricultural Sector as the way to reviving the country’s economy is an important call; therefore, our government should allocate some funding for freshwater fish farming which is a booming business.” Mr. Towa is urging all members of the parliament to assist their people back at home with funds to start fish farming businesses. “MPs must buy, fingerlings and feedlings and give to their people and hire technical officers to go and teach and set up fishponds, this in return will help all those in the village struggling financially.”

A total sum of USD $65,000 investment was made in a significant step toward enhancing regional collaboration and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Arafura and Timor Seas ecosystem. Jelta Wong, Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, highlights the importance of the Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action (ATSEA) Sydney Declaration in Strengthening Regional Cooperation. The ATSEA Sydney Ministerial Declaration represents a bold and unified commitment to the long-term health of the Arafura and Timor Seas, thus the USD$65,000 investment is a crucial step in ensuring the success of this important regional initiative during the bridging phase. The declaration marks the commitment of Papua New Guinea, Australia, Indonesia, and Timor Leste to work together towards the management of shared marine resources. Speaking at the event, Minister Wong emphasized the critical importance of this partnership in safeguarding the health of the Arafura and Timor Seas, which is vital not only for the environment but also for the livelihoods of millions of people across the region. “The Arafura and Timor Seas ecosystem is central to the economic well-being and cultural heritage of our nations,” Minister Wong said. “It provides sustenance, employment, and opportunities for millions of people, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that these resources are managed sustainably for generations to come.” The signing ceremony, which took place this morning, saw the official commitment of a USD$65,000 funding package to support the implementation of joint initiatives under the ATSEA program. This funding will be used during the bridging phase for programs that focus on marine conservation, fisheries management, biodiversity protection, and climate resilience in the Arafura and Timor Seas region. Minister Wong further acknowledged the significant partnership between Papua New Guinea, Australia, Indonesia, and Timor Leste, calling it a demonstration of the shared commitment to protecting the natural resources of the region. “This partnership is a testament to the strength of our collective will to tackle the challenges that threaten our marine ecosystems, from overfishing to pollution and climate change. It shows what can be achieved when nations come together to achieve common goals.” He also recognized Australia’s continued support in providing resources and technical assistance to the ATSEA program. “Australia’s longstanding commitment to the sustainable management of our shared marine environment has been instrumental in fostering regional cooperation, and we look forward to deepening our collaboration in the years to come.” The ATSEA program aims to enhance the collective management of the marine and coastal resources of the Arafura and Timor Seas, focusing on improving the health of the ecosystems, addressing environmental threats, and supporting the livelihoods of the people who depend on these resources. In addition, Minister Wong called for continued cooperation and engagement to ensure that the Arafura and Timor Seas remain vibrant, resilient, and productive for future generations. “The signing of this declaration is only the beginning of our journey. We must remain committed to action, not just words, and together, we can create a more sustainable and prosperous future for our nations and for our shared marine environment.”

Eliseo Group of Stores launched their first ever Christmas promotions, which will run from the 7th of December 2024 to the 3rd of January 2025, this morning at the Eliseo Rainbow Plaza in Port Moresby city. Miss Jessy, Branch Manager for Eliseo Rainbow urged all valued customers to shop at all Eliseo Branches in Port Moresby for a chance to win awesome prices this festive season. This Christmas promotion is for registered Eliseo Loyalty Program members only, so customers can register for the Loyalty Program with a K10 to be eligible to take part in this festive promotion. “Only registered Eliseo Loyalty Program members who spend K68 or more in a single purchase at any Eliseo Supermarket will get into a 2 lucky draw promotion this festive season.” “There will be 3 major winners who will drive away this festive season 3 brand new GWM Poer Utility worth K129,000 from Boroko Motors.” “These 3 lucky grand winners will also get a chance to win other special lucky draw prices too,” said Ms. Jessy. Human Resource Director for Eliseo Group, Mr. Shu has also highlighted that this festive season will be the biggest ever giveaway Eliseo will be giving to all its valued customers, thus there will be 3 major draws happening this festive season. “First promotion will run from the 7th -13 December, with the draws happening on the 13th of December at all Eliseo branches, and on the 14th will be the Grand draw for the first vehicle, this will be at Rainbow Branch.” “2nd promotion will run from the 14th -20th of December with the draws happening on the 20th of December at all branches and the Grand draw for the 2nd vehicle on the 21st of December at Rainbow Branch.” “The 3rd promotion will run from the 21st of December 2024 until 3rd January 2025, with the final draws schedule for 3rd January 2025 at all Eliseo branches and the major winner for the final vehicle to be done on the 4th of January 2025 at the Rainbow branch.” Major prices to win this festive season at all Elise stores will be 20 X K1, 000 Vouchers, White Goods packages worth around K6, 000, 90 X lucky winners for Vivo V40 Lite Phones and the last price pack will be 300 lucky winners to win a Bluetooth Speaker. All customers are urged to get into the Eliseo Loyalty Program so they can have a very merry Christmas when they shop at all Eliseo branches in Port Moresby this festive season.

The 3rd annual Kopen Cultural Festival and Eco-tourism Conservation Exhibition is expected to be bigger and better this year, featuring a wide variety of small and large cultural groups from the 11th -13th of December in Enga province. Kopen village outside Wabag town is now looking forward to hosting this significant event and welcoming visitors including international tourists. The exquisite festival will be joined by the Enga Governor himself, Sir Peter Ipatas along with the Minister for Arts, Culture and Tourism Belden Norman Namah, the National Cultural Commission (NCC), PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), Enga Provincial Administration and development partners and other relevant stakeholders. This festival will coincide with the official opening of Haus Man (Cultural Tradition House for Engan Men) and Cultural Research Centre, where traditional artifacts, tourism objects and products will be displayed. Chairman of the Kopen Take Pii Festival, Mr. Luke Lale expressed his gratitude towards all stakeholders for their support and introduced the Festival Program along with its significant objectives. “I would like to thank the Enga Provincial Government, NCC, PNGTPA, Development Partners and stakeholders for promoting such cultural festivals.” “The activities for this year’s program will include the opening of the Cultural Research Centre, followed by traditional Singing, traditional Sports, courtship, an Eco-Tourism Conservation Exhibition, a Bilum Exhibition, rituals, crafts, sand painting and a string band performance.” “The festival focuses on three objectives; to promote cultural diversity, encourage independent reasoning for young people and to facilitate access for all cultures,” Mr. Lale said. The festival was created to implement the National Cultural Commission’s cultural policy of 2022-2023 focusing on protecting, preserving and encouraging all indigenous cultural resources, which are almost forgotten due to western and global influences. The hosting of such cultural festivals and tourism products development will enhance socio-economic activities and curb escalating law & order issues, address Gender Base Violence, Inclusive Disabilities and other forms of Discrimination in the communities. The show also aims at engaging the young men and women so that they can actively participate to create conducive environments for all to live in, thus put behind the so-called tribal conflicts.

The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and the Port Moresby North East District will officially launch the 9 mile Saivara Satellite Township projects and its modern Police station tomorrow Friday 29th November 2024, at 3 pm in the afternoon. The initial groundbreaking ceremony of the satellite township, which was done early this year in April, will now see it unveil. Member for Moresby North East, John Kaupa had disclosed that the total cost of building the satellite township was estimated to be around K500 million, thus in the next 5 years time the whole of 9 mile will change, and become a satellite town. The multi million Kina satellite township will include development of the following that will be launched; 1.  New 9mile Police station, 2. 20 new police staff houses, 3. Settlement to Suburb program to be officially launched, 4. Bushwara Resettlement -14mile /Farea Concept Plan to be unveiled, and 5. The unveiling of the Level 4 District Hospital. The satellite town will also have a fire station, St Jones Ambulance station, a market, and a shopping mall in the next 5 years' time. The entire project is now located on top of 35.44 hectares of land; thus, this township is a public private partnership and will be fully funded by the developer as per the MOU signed between the office of Moresby North East District and the YFIG Group Limited. Residents of Moresby North- East and 9-mile area are urged to join this historic event in the history of Moresby North- East District.

The Southern Highlands province has been struck by many disasters this year alone, from manmade disaster to natural disaster and sadly most victims have not been able to receive any form of help from the Provincial Disaster Office. This is because the Southern Highlands Provincial Disaster Office has been without funding for a very long time, this was revealed by the Provincial Disaster Coordinator, Mr. Peter Wapenda-Wari. The recent Flood in Aiya LLG (Magani River burst) saw no assistance from the Disaster Office, despite contacts made by people on the ground to the office. Mr. Wapenda-Wari highlighted that the disaster office also lacks logistical support. “The disaster officers are ready to help, however the problem is we can not move because we do not have any funds nor do we have any form of logistic support, we are practically handicapped.” “Most disaster affected areas have been oversighted because we cannot go into those areas to do primary assessment, scale the disaster and report back to the Provincial Government and the National Disaster Centre for relief help to victims.” He added that despite their situation, he is very grateful for the short-term relief assistance coming in from Non-Government Organization like the United Nations, IOM and their local District Development Authority who have been the fore runner in assisting all victims of disasters in their local areas. “People need long term help, people need to find themselves, pick up and start over from where they were cut off, and sadly, the Southern Highlands Disaster Office has been handicapped and cannot provide long term rehabilitation and support.” “So many requests have been made over and over again, but sadly all requests for funding and logistic support to the disaster department have been falling on deaf ears.” Meantime, with the Southern Highlands Provincial Headquarter now under renovation, Meantime, Mr. Wapenda-Wari hopes that once renovation work on the Southern Highlands Provincial Headquarter building is done and work resumes, the Provincial Government can prioritize on funding, logistic support and other administrative support also for the Provincial Disaster Office.

Kina Bank has taken a bold step toward advancing inclusive green and sustainable development in Papua New Guinea as the fifth financial institution to join the groundbreaking initiative. Kina bank has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI); thus, Kina Bank will integrate the Inclusive Green Finance Policy (IGFP) into its lending operations, helping to shape the future of a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable financial sector in the country. Kina Bank’s involvement comes at a pivotal moment, alongside other key financial players in the nation, including ANZ PNG, the Bank of South Pacific (BSP), Nationwide Microbank, and Women’s Microbank. This partnership signals a collective commitment to driving both financial inclusion and environmentally responsible growth in Papua New Guinea. The Inclusive Green Finance Project, launched in 2021 with the support of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (NZ MFAT) under the Low Emissions Climate Resilient Development (LECRD) Program has already made tremendous progress. From developing the IGFP framework to establishing the Green Finance Centre (GFC), the project has laid the foundation for advancing green finance throughout PNG. The French Development Agency (AFD) has recently committed Euro 3 million in funding support for the IGFP Implementation Roadmap, underscoring the growing global confidence in this initiative’s potential. Through this new MoU, Kina Bank will collaborate with the Green Finance Centre to conduct a thorough needs assessment, create green loan products, and build a portfolio of sustainable finance solutions. Additionally, Kina Bank will receive policy advisory services, capacity-building support, and technical assistance, ensuring the long-term success of its green finance strategies. BPNG Governor, Mrs. Elizabeth Genia, highlighted the importance of the partnership. "The Inclusive Green Finance initiative is a transformative approach to aligning financial growth with sustainable development. Kina Bank’s commitment to this cause strengthens our shared vision of building a financially inclusive and environmentally conscious sector for the future of Papua New Guinea." Also at the signing of the MOU, Mr. Greg Pawson, CEO of Kina Bank, expressed the bank’s continued dedication to sustainable practices. “At Kina Bank, we believe that the future of finance lies in balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to delivering sustainable financial solutions that foster long-term sustainability through our enhanced ESG policy, benefiting both our customers and the communities in which we operate.” Mr. Sakiusa Tuisolia, GGGI’s Country Representative for PNG & the Solomon Islands, spoke to the broader impact of the initiative stating that the inclusion of Kina Bank is crucial in adding its strong band value to the inclusive green finance effort and also enabling the front-end delivery of inclusive green loan products that will contribute to low emission growth and sustainable development in PNG. “GGGI as the delivery partner through the Green Finance Centre (GFC) is driving this initiative with funding support from the New Zealand Government and the French Agency Francaise de Development (AFD).” This partnership marks a critical milestone in Kina Bank’s ongoing efforts to lead in sustainable finance and play an active role in the transition to a green economy. By joining forces with BPNG and GGGI, Kina Bank is not only contributing to the evolution of the financial sector but also ensuring that environmental sustainability is woven into the fabric of PNG’s future

AML ISI is PNG’s first comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF) compliance software, specifically designed for the PNG market, designed by qualified lawyers from Papua New Guinea and Australia. Margareth Parua, Director of AML ISI Limited and prominent lawyer, highlights the platform’s importance of having our very own Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF) compliance software. “Our program simplifies AML/CTF obligations for financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBP) such as law firms, accounting firms, trustees and company directors and secretaries. Our software typically takes 8 minutes to complete so DNFBPs will spend less time on compliance and more time on their core business activities.” Ms. Parua also points out the risks of a Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey Listing that if PNG were placed on the FATF Grey List, it would have a negative impact on PNG’s economy, businesses and resource projects. The impact could be severe, leading to more scrutiny on financial transactions, higher costs for trade and financing, and a loss of trust from foreign investors. This would be damaging for local businesses and the country. “The widespread adoption of an AML/CTF compliance program by companies in PNG could significantly impact efforts to keep PNG off the FATF grey list. Specifically, improved compliance across the corporate sector would strengthen the country’s overall AML/CTF framework.” “It could help in detecting and reporting suspicious activities, increasing transparency, and making the financial system more resilient against money laundering, financial crime and terrorist financing. All these measures would be viewed favorably by FATF and could contribute to reducing the risk of PNG being placed on the grey list.” Amira Ward, AML ISI Director and duel qualified PNG/Australian lawyer, emphasizes the software’s user-friendly features. “Our software is based on the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorist Financing Act 2015. It makes the compliance process easier and much faster for financial institutions and DNFBPs. We created a solution to address the real challenges faced by PNG businesses and professionals.” Hubert Namani, President of the PNG Law Society, supports AML ISI’s initiative. “I think this is a great initiative and it has my full support. AML ISI’s compliance software will be a vital resource for our members and the business community.” “As President of the PNG Law Society we support best practices for our members and believe that this will also strengthen the integrity of PNG’s business sector.” AML ISI’s software generates comprehensive risk assessment forms and Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance reports, for every transaction. These detailed reports are invaluable when the Financial Analysis and Supervision Unit (FASU) carries out audits. Financial institutions and DNFBP’s can visit amlisi.com to learn more about the software. Looking ahead, AML ISI plans to expand to other Pacific countries, including Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands, in the coming year.

A recovery plan is important when focusing on restoration for any community that is affected by any disaster, thus the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) understand this and has taken a bold approach to helping the communities of Mulitaka landslide area in Enga Province. UNDP and the Enga Provincial Government have come together and officially launched the ‘Mulitaka Disaster Recovery Plan’, marking a crucial step towards recovery for communities affected by the devastating landslide that struck Maip Mulitaka Rural LLG on 24th May this year. The comprehensive recovery plan, which UNDP provided critical technical assistance in developing, was unveiled at the Ipatas Center in Wabag town on 13th November. UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth, in his address at the event expressed how pleased UNDP has been to provide vital support to the Enga Provincial Government to develop the recovery plan, which prioritizes restoring livelihoods, strengthening disaster preparedness, and ensuring long-term resilience against future disasters. "Our ongoing partnership with the Enga Provincial Government reflects a shared commitment to support those most affected, to restore hope, and rebuild lives of the people of Mulitaka and Enga Province.” “This plan focuses on the critical priorities for the recovery of those communities impacted by the landslide and will also take into consideration the broader long-term development goals for the province," he said. The plan outlines the provincial government’s vision for the recovery of those impacted by the landslide, as well as the framework for implementing it. Mr. Booth stated that the Recovery plan has a strong focus on supporting and increasing the resilience of most vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disability. Enga Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas KBE, GCL MP, at the launching of the Recovery Plan stated that the Recovery plan is a significant step forward for the people of Mulitaka and Enga Province. “The devastation of the landslide has greatly impacted our communities, with lives tragically lost and families displaced, and I commend UNDP and other UN agencies and donors who stood with us, providing critical relief and support on the ground.” “We are deeply grateful for their commitment and support.’’ The Recovery Plan document was officially signed by Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, Mr. Nicholas Booth and the Provincial Administrator of Enga, Mr. Sandis Tsaka. Meantime, there to witness the signing were other key officials like Provincial Administrator and Controller of the Mulitaka Landslide Disaster, Mr. Kenneth Andrew; Mr. Robin Yakum from the National Disaster Center; and Mr. Jaman Yandam the Ward Councilor for Mulitaka Mangalo and the representative of the communities impacted by the landslide.

Facing the severe effects of climate change, Papua New Guinea is seeking urgent support for the Pacific, as Prime Minister James Marape stressed the need for increased climate funding to aid smaller island nations, including PNG. In his recent live interview with BBC World News, Marape highlighted how climate change has intensified the challenges for Pacific Island countries, with rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and loss of life. As Marape explained, PNG and other small Pacific nations face disproportionate impacts from a crisis they did not cause, yet they are not receiving sufficient climate finance to cope. “We didn’t cause this problem, but our people are paying a high price,” he said, emphasizing PNG’s vulnerability to extreme weather events and related fatalities. “This year alone, extreme weather events have caused landslides, leaving over 2,000 people dead from just one catastrophe." "Heavy rains have cost my country millions of dollars of damage to our roads and bridges that link to our communities,” he added. Marape described how rising sea levels have already displaced entire communities in PNG, such as those on the Carteret Islands in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. The impacts, he noted, are being felt across the region, with small island states like Kiribati and Tuvalu facing similarly dire circumstances. “The reality of sea levels rising as a result of climate change impacts is not only a PNG experience but also for smaller island nations in the Pacific who have serious issues emanating from this,” he said. Recognizing the urgent need for financial support, Marape welcomed Australia’s renewed commitment to assisting Pacific nations with climate change adaptation. "We are working with Australia to access those funds for climate change mitigation,” he said, acknowledging the need for resources to aid in climate resilience. Marape has outlined specific areas where climate funding could make a difference, such as land reclamation projects, clean energy solutions, and water desalination efforts to assist impacted communities. “We are pushing for land reclamation, clean energy use, and desalination of water,” he explained. “I’ve been pushing for these on the global front to assist our neighboring small island nations like Kiribati, Tuvalu, Federated States of Micronesia, and even small islands in PNG like the Mortlock atolls, Carterets, and others.” At the recent Pacific Islands Forum held in Tonga, Marape reiterated PNG’s commitment to supporting climate adaptation for the region’s most vulnerable communities. He noted that collective action is needed to protect Pacific islands and ensure that their people can continue to thrive despite the growing climate challenges. “We are making our stand clear,” Marape said, “concerning the effects of climate change on small Pacific Island nations and how best they can be assisted.” As PNG strengthens its partnerships and calls for climate funding, Marape hopes that practical solutions can mitigate the impacts of climate change, safeguard communities, and secure the future of small island nations in the Pacific.

Every school -related decision matters, particularly when the voices making these decisions sit on a school board and are expected to represent the diversity of their community. Female participation on school boards in Papua New Guinea and globally has historically been limited, but efforts are being made to create a more inclusive, community-focused education system where women’s voices are proving not just valuable, but essential. The Government of Australia, through the Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE) program, has put in place results-based financing grants through an initiative called Achieving Quality Education for All (AQEFA). Thus, all participating schools are required to have female representation on the school board, and for schools in Autonomous Region of Bougainville the requirement is 50 per cent female representation on the board per the Bougainville Education Act. One woman stands tall in the Kairuku District in Central Province, with her story or courage and influence in the education system, especially in decision making is Ms Bernadetta Oro. Ms. Oro having served as the Secretary of the Biotou Elementary School Board of Management in Kairuku District, Central Province for over 2 decades, Bernadette Oro is a strong advocate for greater female involvement on school boards. She is also the women's representative on the School Learning Improvement Plan (SLIP) committee. Bernadette's involvement on the board began with her desire to represent the women in her community. The SLIP is a school planning, budgeting and management tool and through her work with the SLIP committee Bernadette champions a vision of schooling that goes beyond academics. Her role ensures that community members, parents and external stakeholders have an influence in the direction of their schools. Bernadette’s commitment took her to a School Leadership Management workshop held at Mainohano Secondary School in May 2024, alongside senior teachers and other board members. Bernadette studied behaviour management, budgeting, leadership and operational strategies required to effectively implement the SLIP. The PIE-supported workshop gave her the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to the school board’s decision-making processes. She returned from the workshop inspired to bring this knowledge to her peers, making her an invaluable asset to her school board. Bernadette reported that the training helped her to understand that a school is only as strong as the collaboration between teachers, parents and the broader community. For Bernadette, building on community engagement is central to a school’s success. After the workshop, she joined forces with church leaders, council members and local senior leaders to design a SLIP tailored to her school’s specific needs. With a focus on budgeting within the SLIP’s 7 priority areas, the team worked to ensure that every Kina was strategically directed. Bernadette worked with board members to complete the SLIP and requirements under the AQEFA grant. Biotou successfully received its first AQEFA tranche in June and it was Bernadette had assisted in completing the grant acquittal positioning her school to receive a second tranche which will support completion of a classroom, purchase of water tanks and student health and nutrition awareness. While Bernadette has played an instrumental role in her school board, she notes that many women face challenges in school governance and leadership. Balancing family responsibilities with board commitments, navigating a male-dominated environment and advocating for community-centred programs can be demanding, but a community-minded women like Bernadette not only bring diverse viewpoints but are often in-tune with the needs and concerns of parents and students; this connection is essential to foster a more inclusive, comprehensive approach to education that benefits everyone.

The 7 story Southern Highlands Provincial Building has been closed for some time now as it is currently undergoing major renovation. The Provincial headquarter at the Aigiru Centre is taking on a major upgrade for its interior as well as exterior, thus all provincial government functions have ceased for operation in the province. Southern Highlands Provincial Disaster Coordinator Mr Peter Wapenda-Wari has highlighted that since the closure of the Provincial headquarter there was no direction for temporary office from the Administration, thus all offices are not functioning now, however the Human Resource and Treasury Office have been moved to Port Moresby and has been operating there. “The renovation started around June this year, however there was no memo or circular instruction from the Administrator for the temporary allocation of all office until the end of renovation, so we do not know where to function from." “All officers from all sections and divisions are scattered everywhere, plus we also do not know when the reconstruction of the office will end too.” Mr Wapenda-Wari added that the only two functional offices now are Treasury Office and the Human Resource officer, which is now under the control of the Department of Prime Minister. “The exterior part of the building is almost complete, and the contractor is working on the interior part of the building." Mr Wari extended great sadness and apology to the people pf Southern Highlands Province who have been hit by natural and man-made disasters this year and have been expecting help from the Southern Highlands Provincial Disaster Office but has not received any help. “We have no office to function from temporarily, plus our request for funding and logistics have fallen on deaf ears, so it saddens me that the Provincial Disaster office has failed to respond to victims and survivors of disaster in the province.” Hopefully the renovation is done in quick time so that we can do our work, because right now it feels like officers are getting paid for doing nothing and that is not right.