Papua New Guinea Defence Force Head Quarters Murray Barracks has handed over its gym keys to the Kickboxing Federation for Kick-Boxing Federation to use the gym for its training sessions. Papua New Guinea Kick Boxing Federation (PNGKBF) Head-hunter and President Mr Stanley Nandex stated he is grateful for PNGDF Head Quarter for having the trust in PNGKBF and for giving them the opportunity to use the Murray Barracks Gym. “This is something we always wanted, and now our fighters can have a place to lift weights and also use the gym hall for their training.” “All our best fighters will be at Murray Barracks; this gym is now our professional training camp.” Nandex highlighted that over the last 28 years the PNGKBF has been operating on the Armature level, developing Armature fighters but all this will now change. He added that it is about time PNGKBF needs to come out and expose its fighters overseas and this is exactly what is going to happen moving forward. “PNGKBF will be looking now at commercializing the sport so that our top fighters can get exposure outside of the country.” Mr Nandex further added that this is the way to go and PNGKBF is grateful to PNGDF Head Quarters at Murray Barrack for their partnership, as more can be accomplished with a great venue readily available now for the fighters to use. “In exchange for using the Murray Barracks gym, we will be giving free combat, self-defence, kick boxing trainings and discipline trainings to the soldiers at Murray Barracks.”

“The rising commodity prices present extensive opportunities across various sectors, highlighting agriculture’s potential to fortify economic stability and support national development.” BSP Group GM Corporate, Peter Beswick highlighted this while giving his insight into the BSP Quarterly Pacific Economic and Market Pulse Report Mr Beswick said that as the largest employer in PNG, the agricultural sector sustains livelihoods for numerous farmers and harvesters across the region. “The agricultural sector in PNG is pivotal to our economy, often referred to as the 'engine room' due to its substantial role in driving growth and generating employment opportunities.” In supporting that drive in the agricultural sector, BSP Retail recently collaborated with New Britain Palm Oil Ltd and launched the Hargy Cashless Payment Eco-system campaign, which resulted in the establishment of 7,000 farmer accounts in the West New Britain Province. “This signifies significant strides in empowering local farmers and advancing financial inclusion.” “This initiative strengthens the agricultural sector and reinforces PNG's economic resilience.” Mr. Beswick further added that the rising commodity prices also offer extensive opportunities beyond cocoa, underscoring the sector's potential to enhance economic stability and support national development.

The Oro Provincial Government and the Provincial Member for Oro, Mr Garry Juffa handed over 4 X Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles, three (3) ten seaters and one (1) open back land cruiser, including 3 X 75horse power Yamaha engines and 3X 24-foot dinghies to the Oro Education Division. The presentation was done at the Ela Motors Show Room, Badili, in Port Moresby on the 30th of July 2024. Governor Garry Juffa at the presentation stated that his government continues to prioritize Education, and this investment will provide the much-needed capabilities for the Education Officers to effectively deliver services. A boat for the Oro Administration will assist them to meet the demands for provide quality education in the province. “The total cost of all these assets is over a K1.0million, and the funding is from the Provincial Government under the Marape Rosso Government Infrastructure Intervention Program.” Juffa said the vehicles will be allocated to various sectors, operations, Administration, Materials and Inspections. He added that even though Inspection is a National Function, Oro Government will still provide a vehicle to support their activities. Juffa further added that in line with his government plans to modernize their transport fleet, all vehicles are fitted with GPS Tracking system from TSI Security Services. “All vehicles will strictly remain light glass, no tint, and when these vehicles arrive in Popondetta, they will have the private plates replaced with the government plates.” “We want to ensure these assets are used for their intended purpose with strict guidelines.”

Madang Province is the first province in the Momase Region to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) to introduce financial Inclusion activities in the province. This also makes Madang Province the sixth province to sign a MoU with CEFI, following Milne Bay, West New Britain, Western Highlands, East New Britain and New Ireland provinces. Present to sign the MoU recently was the Governor for Madang Province Mr. Ramsey Pariwa, MP, Assistant Governor, Financial System Stability Group (FSSG), Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) and Alternate Chair CEFI Board, Mr. George Awap and CEFI Executive Director Mr. Saliya Ranasinghe. Also present to witness the signing ceremony were CEFI Board Members including, CEFI Deputy Executive Director Mr. Peter Samuel, Ms. Susil Nelson Kongoi and Mr. Sanja Pepae. The objective of the MoU is to forge a partnership in rolling out financial inclusion activities and programs align with the targets set out in the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2023-207. This is also to advocate and create awareness of financial literature and education to empower individuals to alleviate themselves from poverty. The Madang Governor Hon. Mr. Ramsey Pariwa thanked BPNG, CEFI, USAID and other development partners for their collaboration thus he is now working with his administration to put in place a plan for financial inclusion for the province. “The national government in its Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV) is looking at growing the economy base, through its intervention program on banking and finance and financial inclusion, further the Madang Provincial Integrated Development Plan was aligned to the MTDP IV.” “We have captured banking and finance in our provincial plan, that's an indication that we are serious in looking at banking and finance and SMES in the province.” The Assistant Governor, FSSG, BPNG and Alternate Chair CEFI Board, Mr. George Awap also emphasized the importance of financial education stressing the need for Papua New Guineans to know how to manage their finances. “If a population is literate financially, it's about empowering the people to do their business in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.” said Mr. Aawap. “Because if small businesses incur losses, they will give up hope in business because they have no financial knowledge and the ability to manage their own finances.” Meanwhile, CEFI Executive Director Mr. Saliya Ranasinghe further highlighted to the importance of financial inclusion to Governor Pariwa and members of the Madang Provincial Government (MPG) that CEFI was pleased to sign the MoU with MPG to address the issue of financial inclusion. “A larger percentage of people in this country are not involved in banking activities. Even though the banks have increased their outreach, a lot of people still do not enjoy the benefits of the banking sector.” “Our main aim is to bring these people into the financial mainstream, so that they can get benefits out of the banks, and we are proud to say that we now have about 4.2 million bank accounts in the country and 38% of those bank accounts are owned by women.”

An aged care training program delivered by the Australia Pacific Training Coalition was recently held at Lemakot in New Ireland Province. The training was organized by the Papua New Guinea Labour Mobility Unit (LMU). A big Congratulations to the 23 Papua New Guineans who have successfully completed their three-weeks aged care training program which saw 20 out of the participants secured job offers in Australia. APTC partners with LMU to train PNG workers to meet Australian employers’ workforce demands under the PALM Scheme, where there are not enough Australian workers to fill this demand. Participants from Manus, East New Britain, and New Ireland honed their skills through a curriculum aligned with key components of the Australian Certificate III Individual Support (Ageing) qualification. The course gives participants important skills and knowledge in caring for others, so they are informed and well prepared to work in the aged care sector in Australia and in their communities. Team Leader for the East New Britain participants, Colleen Olpitarea, expressed gratitude on behalf of the group, explaining the impact the training has had on each of them. “The training covers essential areas like communication, working effectively with diverse people, and upholding legal and ethical practices in caregiving and we are grateful for the opportunity as it has enabled us to be work-ready for future employment opportunities.” Also, a fellow participant, Ms. Colin John, a nurse by profession, was also thankful for the opportunity to build on his skills. “This program broadened my understanding of aged care and individual support,' she said. “I feel confident taking on this new challenge and contributing to a quality experience in the aged care sector in my community.” Since 2007, APTC has trained more than 6400 Papua New Guineans, enabling them to advance in their TVET careers. Among them are 36 women and five men who have been trained in aged care, sharing their skills and knowledge within PNG and internationally. APTC is an Australian Government initiative in partnership with the Pacific and Timor-Leste.

“As the Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, it is an honour to inform the Government and people of Papua New Guinea of the appointment of Mr Noan David Pakop, as the first Papua New Guinean to be the Director General of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA).” That is according to the Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources Honourable Jelta Wong, MP in a media statement today. Minister Wong added that Mr Pakop who hails from Tilienu Island in the Manus Province was officially appointed by the 23rd Forum Fisheries Committee Ministers in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Mr Pakop becomes the 10th Director General of the FFA since its establishment in 1979. “This is a historic achievement for us as no Papua New Guinean has ever been appointed to this prestigious position since the inception of the FFA 45 years ago.” “I would like to thank our good Prime Minister, Honourable James Marape, and the Government of Papua New Guinea for their trust and undivided support in endorsing PNG’s candidacy.” “This is yet another milestone achievement for the Fisheries sector in responding to the Government’s call to assume strategic leadership roles in the region.”

As part of Papua New Guinea and Australia's Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA), today’s official opening of the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership Kokopo Office marks the beginning of the next phase of Australia’s support for law enforcement cooperation activities in the province. The opening of the PNG-APP Kokopo Office is the first Provincial location outside of Port Moresby and Lae, and this indicates a stronger partnership between the Papua New Guinea and Australia. Support for provincial policing, forensics, prosecutions, support for specialist functions, and infrastructure all form part of the PGK408 million (AUD157 million) package that will be delivered over four years under the Papua New Guinea and Australi’s Bilateral Security Agreement. RPNGC Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Samson Kua, Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioners Nigel Ryan and Jamie Strauss travelled to Kokopo with Australian High Commissioner John Feakes at the invitation of the Governor of East New Britain, The Hon Michael Marum MP. There they were also joined by Assistant Commissioner New Guinea Islands Command Naua Vanuawaru to officially open the PNG-APP Kokopo Office and during the official opening AC Ryan highlighted that the opening of the new facility demonstrated Australia’s ongoing commitment to the BSA. "The Australian Federal Police has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining and enhancing its relationship with PNG through the delivery of programs and initiatives under the PNG-APP.” “Here in East New Britain, we’re delivering PGK25 million in new RPNGC Infrastructure to significantly enhance the capability of the Constabulary.” he said. Through the PNG-APP, Australia continues to work closely with the RPNGC to deliver equipment, assets and training that will help PNG develop a world class police force. Under the agreement, Australia has: • Gifted the Police Patrol Vessel PV Minigulai, enabling long range se patrols to protect PNG's maritime boarders; • Delivered less-than-lethal use-of-force training for RPNGC and equipment. • Provided funding for five ex-patriot Director-level positions within the RPNGC: AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION PORT MORESBY • Designed Australia-based training for more than 60 RPNGC Police Officer Cadets to enhance their policing and leadership skills; and • Commenced construction of a brand-new forensics facility in NCD, with hubs in Mt Hagen, Kokopo and Lae. Australia remains committed to delivering security support tailored to PNG's traditional and non-traditional security needs, as it has over decades of partnership.

Four newly established Kick Boxing Clubs were given Certificate of Recognition by the PNG Kick Boxing Federation (PNGKBF) recently at the Sir John Guise Sports Federation Office. The newly established clubs were from Hela Province, Western Highlands Province, Southern Highlands Province and an East New Britain, Port Moresby based club. PNG Kickboxing Federation President and Head-hunter, Mr Stanley Nandex stated that these clubs were established by senior fighters who were able to branch out from their respective Kick boxing Associations and run their own kickboxing clubs. Nandex added that most provincial associations have been facing political and administrative issues which has affected the smooth run and development of kick boxing in various provinces, however with individuals running their own clubs, this is something positive that goes to show that Kick boxing can still be developed by strong and true passionate kickboxers. “We give these clubs certificate of recognition, which goes to show that the Federation is behind these clubs, so they can affiliate and work together with the Kickboxing Federation.” “Sooner or later we all need to work together for the interest of the sport and code, we need to develop Kick boxing, and these small clubs will need to update and report directly to the federation.” Nandex added that the federation is happy to have individuals who have been faithfully running kickboxing in the outside province like Simbu, Mt Hagen, Eastern Highlands, even in Enga, where there is ongoing violence, and Hela Province which now has over 1500 interested kickboxers. The four (4) Clubs and their Coaches who were recognised are: Mr Jugari Agio and Mr. Joel Embeli - Hela Kickboxing Club, Mr Ali Akon is running - Southern Highlands Kickboxing Club, Mr Gilbert Kay - Mt Hagen Lingstan Kickboxing club Mr Vincent Toliman- ENB – Pom base Mataungan Kickboing club. “PNGKBF is not only interested in raising champions but also raising vibrant youths who can contribute back to the nation and also we would like these youths to make this sport evolve and change more lives.” “Despite our challenges on networking, our collaborative efforts with clubs and associations PNGKBF recognised and awarded the – 2024 Initiative of the Year.” PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF) has the same vision, to see sports evolving and contributing to this nation, and PNG Kick Boxing Federation shares the same vision and is happy to meet the requirements set by PNGSF and to work hand in hand with the PNGSF. “Its good to have PNGSF come on board and support PNGKBF and with the support given, we want to recognize all kick boxing clubs and associations, get them to affiliate so that we can produce some of the best fighters in the region and in the world.”

United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Asia, Michael Schiffer, as part of an interagency United States Government delegation to Papua New Guinea (PNG), announced on the 16th of July that the United States, through USAID, is providing $3.5 million (PGK13,098,750.00) to support disaster preparedness in PNG. The United States Government delegation to PNG who arrived in in the country on Sunday 14th July was led by Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and included representatives from the White House National Security Council, the State Department, the Department of Defence, and USAID. During the trip, U.S. Government officials also toured the Papua New Guinea National Disaster Center and met with PNG government officials and discussed U.S.–PNG relations, including disaster preparedness and response efforts. It is understood that PNG frequently faces extreme weather events and natural hazards, including earthquakes, floods, storms, and volcanic eruptions; therefore, this funding will support USAID partner the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to build local government capacity to conduct rapid disaster assessments, implement disaster management strategies. The K13,098,750.00 funding will also go towards addressing gender-based violence in emergency contexts and expanding community-driven disaster preparedness for more effective disaster response. The funding will also enable IOM to preposition relief commodities for immediate distribution when disasters strike. Pre-positioned relief commodities have facilitated accelerated USAID relief efforts during previous disasters in Papua New Guinea, including flood and earthquake relief in March and April of 2024. The United States appreciates close collaboration with regional partners, including Australia, India, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea, in response to the recent landslide in Enga Province that affected nearly 8, 000 people. Other donors have also been urged to join in supporting the long-term resilience of the people of Papua New Guinea.

The Fubilan Catering Services (FCS) a landowner company from Ok Tedi was awarded the Outstanding Landowner Company Shared Value Performance 2024 Award during the recent PNG Resources Week. This award recognizes a landowner company for their outstanding performances in economic and social progress within their communities. Upon receiving the award, Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) proudly congratulates this landowner company for its outstanding achievement. OTML Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Ilimbit stated that OTML is immensely proud of FCS for their outstanding achievements. “Their commitment to excellence in workforce development, health and safety, compliance, and community engagement aligns perfectly with our values thus we look forward to continuing our strong partnership and driving positive change together.” Mr Ilimbit further added that FCS’s winning performance and continuous growth and expansion in Tabubil as well as other parts of PNG is a milestone achievement and will hopefully inspire other Ok Tedi landowner companies to follow. Proud FCS General Manager, Unni Meetinay said this award underscores their ongoing commitment to creating shared value and fostering strong relationships with their clients in driving their strategies and visions. “It is definitely a proud moment for us as a Company and a testament to our commitment to community development and sustainable practices.” He further added that FCS’ economic activity ripples outward creating livelihoods and prosperity citing community support programs in business, sports and other development project initiatives. In 2023, FCS received three prestigious awards: The ‘Outstanding Local Workforce Champion Training & Development’ at the 2023 CANCONEX event, The ‘Industry Leader Health and Safety’ at the PNG & Australia Mining and Petroleum Investment Conference And the NASFUND’s ‘Most Compliant Employer – Account Maintenance in 2023’.

The United State stands committed to supporting the Energy Sector in Papua New Guinea and through this partnership people can expect to benefit more from the sector in future. On June 4-5, The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) sponsored a delegation of National Energy Authority (NEA) leaders from thirteen Pacific Island countries to participate in a USAID training for Office of the Pacific Energy Regulators Alliance (OPERA) members on best practices for economic regulation of the energy sector. This activity took place as part of the Asia Clean Energy Forum at Asian Development Bank headquarters in Manila. USAID Country Representative Nino Nadiradze reaffirmed USAID’s commitment to supporting the National Energy Authority, “The United States is committed to supporting the National Energy Authority in developing a robust enabling environment that will contribute to an efficient and sustainable investment climate in PNG’s energy sector.” The event brought together Pacific Island energy regulators who discussed the actions necessary to drive private investment in the energy sector. Other topics covered were consumer protection, ensuring the financial viability of utility operators, safety, regulating independent power producers, and introducing competition in power procurement. The training offered a platform for OPERA members to share common challenges faced by Pacific Island regulators and to learn from each other’s successes. The NEA delegation from Papua New Guinea was led by Managing Director Ronald Meketa. The PNG Energy Regulatory Partnership is an institutional strengthening program supporting the USAID-PNG Electrification Partnership (USAID-PEP) Activity which is a five-year partnership with the Government of PNG that contributes to PNG’s goal of connecting 70 percent of PNG’s population to electricity by 2030.

The annual National Mask and Warwagira Festival for the people of East New Britain has come back this year and Bank South Pacific is proud to associate itself with the event as the silver sponsor. The National Mask and Warwagira Festival promotes the unique cultures of the Tolais, Baining and Pomios. The festival kicked off this week Wednesday and will end tomorrow Saturday 13th of July, 2024, in Rabaul. Kokopo Branch Manager Johnson Tetega in presenting BSP’s support of K10,000 to the National Mask & Warwagira Festival Committee on Wednesday 10th July, at the start of the event, stated that BSP is pleased to be supporting the event since 2011, thus it not only celebrates the unique mask cultures of East New Britain but continues to preserve and promote the cultures through its practise among the next generation. “BSP as a community and people’s bank is proud to support a cultural event that is important to the people of East New Britain,” Mr Tetega said. “BSP will be assisting customers at the Queen Elizabeth Park in Rabaul with personal banking needs – we will be available to open new Personal Accounts (Kids, Sumatin, Kundu and Plus Savers) register customers on Digital Banking services or attend to general enquiries.” Apart from supporting such festivals, BSP is proud to be serving East New Britain through our Kokopo, Rabaul, Kerevat and Palmalmal branches, 19 BSP Agents, 16 ATMs, 400+ EFTPoS and BSP continues to deliver 29 and counting Community Projects. “We have invested K790,000 in various Community Projects in East New Britain since 2009 and will continue to support where we can.” The festival commenced with the ‘Kinavai’ ceremony, which took place at dawn and features the arrival of the Tolai ‘Tubans’ and ‘Duk-Duks’ on canoes to the sound of drums and singing. At night visitors will be able to watch the Baining people perform ‘fire dances’, leaping barefoot in traditional dress through blazing bonfires.