The Autonomous Region of Bougainville warmly welcomed His Eminence Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization and Special Envoy of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, who arrived in Bougainville on Friday 14th August 2026 for the 125th Jubilee Anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Bougainville. Cardinal Tagle was accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, and Rev. Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference of PNG and Solomon Islands. The delegation was welcomed at Buka Airport by an ABG delegation including ABG Member for Tsitalato Constituency, Hon. John Bosco Ragu; ABG Minister for Community Development and Public Service, Hon. Melvin Wilolopa; Regional Member for Bougainville, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Junior; Bishop of the Bougainville Diocese, Darius Kaluza; and ABG Heads of Departments.The delegation later paid a courtesy visit to ABG President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, at his residence in Buka. President Toroama warmly welcomed the delegation and thanked them for gracing Bougainville with their presence for the historic 125th Jubilee Anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Bougainville.

Prime Minister James Marape has directed the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) to verify serious public allegations concerning payments and the alleged unauthorised use of his name, saying any evidence of improper or unlawful conduct will be referred to police for investigation.Prime Minister Marape said he had become aware of allegations circulating publicly concerning former NGCB trustee Mr. Steven Temo and payments reportedly associated with the organisation.“I have written to the National Gaming Control Board and asked them to verify these allegations and establish whether the payments being referred to were actually made, to whom they were made, the basis upon which they were made, and whether all proper processes were followed,” Prime Minister Marape said“I do not go down to the operational level of government agencies and statutory bodies to direct individual payments, contracts or transactions. These organisations have their own management, boards, processes, and legal responsibilities."“Many people use my name, or claim to be acting on my behalf, when dealing with government departments, agencies and businesses. Let me make it absolutely clear that nobody has authority to use my name or the Office of the Prime Minister to obtain payments, contracts, preferential treatment or personal benefits."“If anyone claims that the Prime Minister has directed a payment or transaction, that claim must be verified through the proper channels and against official records.”Prime Minister Marape said the NGCB had been asked to establish the facts surrounding the allegations, including whether payments were made and whether they complied with applicable laws, policies and approval processes.“If the NGCB establishes that improper payments were made, or if there is evidence suggesting wrongdoing, then I will ask police and other appropriate authorities to investigate all persons involved,” he said. “No individual will be protected because they claim to know me, work with me, come from my electorate or province, or have political connections. “The law must apply equally to everyone.” Prime Minister Marape also clarified that Mr. Temo is no longer a member of the NGCB trust. “Mr. Temo is no longer a member of the trust,” he said. “People appointed to positions of public trust are there to serve Papua New Guinea.They must conduct themselves lawfully, ethically and in the national interest. “Appointment to public office is not a license to use public resources, political connections or the names of leaders for private benefit.”Prime Minister Marape cautioned against treating allegations circulating on social media as established facts before they had been properly investigated.“Serious allegations have been made publicly, but allegations are not evidence, and they must be verified,” he said. “That is why I have asked the NGCB to check its records and establish the facts."“If the allegations are false, the facts should clear those who have been wrongly accused. If the allegations are supported by evidence, then the appropriate authorities must deal with those responsible according to law.”Prime Minister Marape said his government does not tolerate and would not tolerate corruption, illegal payments, abuse of office or the misuse of public funds. “We do not tolerate and would not tolerate illegal practices,” Prime Minister Marape said. Public money belongs to the people of Papua New Guinea, and every kina must be accounted for and used for its lawful and intended purpose.“I expect the NGCB and all government agencies to maintain proper records, follow lawful processes and cooperate fully with any investigation that may arise from these allegations.”Prime Minister Marape said the same standard applied across government, "If anyone is using my name to solicit money, secure contracts, influence payments or gain benefits, I want that exposed,” he said.“Those appointed to public office must work for the country through lawful conduct. Where there is evidence of wrongdoing, let the law take its course.” 

Australia Awards is supporting Papua New Guinea agriculture professionals to strengthen agricultural trade and help local products reach domestic and international markets.Through a recent short course delivered by the University of Queensland in collaboration with Pacific Adventist University, around 30 professionals from across government and industry came together to explore practical ways to create new opportunities for farmers, businesses, and exporters.With more than 85 percent of Papua New Guineans relying on agriculture for their livelihoods, the sector remains vital to food security, rural incomes, and overall economic growth.By building stronger partnerships and targeting improvements in logistics, supply chains, and export systems, Australia and PNG are advancing their shared interest in expanding agricultural trade.Papua New Guinea Biosecurity Authority representative Mr. Douglas Siuta highlighted the value of collaboration across the sector.“This course is helping us understand how the whole system fits together and where we can work more closely,” Mr. Siuta said.“I will take these lessons and connections back to my organization so we can contribute to real improvements.”Building on two earlier short courses and a study tour to Australia, the program is strengthening a network of local professionals equipped to link producers with markets more effectively.Australia, through Australia Awards, remains committed to investing in PNG’s institutions and supporting local leaders to turn shared priorities into long-term progress.

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has successfully concluded a four-day women’s football development programme in Wewak in the East Sepik province, bringing together teachers, community volunteers, women and girls through football, education and life-skills activities.The programme, held from August 6 to 9 in partnership with the Wewak Football Association (WFA), featured the Oceania Football Confederation’s (OFC) “This Is How We Football” Capacity Building Training, followed by the PNGFA Women’s Football Festival.The two-day capacity-building training attracted 17 participants from Wewak town and surrounding schools and communities. Participants were equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver the “This Is How We Football” programme within their own communities.The OFC initiative uses football as a platform to empower girls aged 13 to 18 through education, leadership and life-skills development. Training sessions used FIFA and OFC educational resources and focused on four key areas: gender empowerment, life skills, health, and safety and gender-based violence prevention.The programme culminated in the PNGFA Women’s Football Festival on August 9, which brought together approximately 100 girls from Wewak and surrounding communities.Beyond football activities, the festival reinforced key messages from the capacity-building sessions, encouraging teamwork, confidence, inclusion and leadership among participants.PNGFA Executive Committee Member and Women’s Representative Cathy Agunam also joined the Women’s Football Development team in Wewak, supporting the programme and engaging with participants and members of the local football community.The programme was facilitated by PNGFA Women’s Football Development Officer Susan Steven, Social Responsibility Manager Christine Wamala-Uru and Social Responsibility Programme Coordinator Sonia Embahe, with support from PNG Women’s National Football Team Assistant Coach Edna Thomas.Embahe said the programme demonstrated the important role football can play beyond the playing field.“Football has the power to bring people together while creating opportunities for learning, empowerment and personal growth,” she said.She said the strong participation in both the training and festival showed there was significant interest in using football to create positive opportunities for women and girls.“By building the capacity of teachers and community volunteers, we are creating local champions who can continue delivering these important messages within their schools and communities,” Embahe said.“Our goal is to ensure more girls have access to safe spaces where they can build confidence, develop leadership skills and learn valuable life lessons through football.”The partnership between the PNGFA Women’s Football Development Team and the Wewak Football Association reflects a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for women and girls to participate in football while promoting gender equality, health, safety and respect within communities.PNGFA also acknowledged WFA President Judith Kumasi and her executive management for their hospitality and support in helping ensure the successful delivery of the programme.The Wewak programme further demonstrates PNGFA’s commitment to using football as a tool for positive social change and community development, while strengthening local capacity so more women and girls can benefit from the sport both on and off the field.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has invested more than K500,000 to support five licensed out-of-home care centres providing shelter, care and protection for vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Papua New Guinea.The national petroleum and energy company provides support to five centres licensed by the National Office of Child and Family Services (NOCFS).They are Born Free Foundation and 3-Mile New Hope Centre in the National Capital District, St Mary’s Home for Vulnerable Children and Bible Faith Outreach (BFO) in Western Highlands Province, and St Francis Care Centre in Mendi, Southern Highlands Province.KPHL has raised funds for the centres through its annual Port Moresby Charity Golf Challenge since 2022.Last year’s tournament raised more than K150,000 through the participation of 40 teams, corporate sponsorships and auction proceeds. The funds have since been distributed among the five care centres.Born Free Foundation, Bible Faith Outreach and St Francis Care Centre each received K40,000, while St Mary’s Home for Vulnerable Children received K30,000 and 3-Mile New Hope Centre received K20,000.KPHL Acting Managing Director Luke Liria said the company was proud to support the Government’s Vision 2050 by investing in initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable children.He said supporting children to grow up in safe and nurturing environments was consistent with the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind.“Through our partnership with the National Office of Child and Family Services and the gracious support of the business community that participates in our Charity Golf Challenge, we are helping to ensure these children are not forgotten,” Mr. Liria said.He said investment in the children’s wellbeing, education and future would contribute to stronger communities and a more inclusive and prosperous Papua New Guinea.Mr. Liria also acknowledged the founders and caregivers at the centres for opening their homes and dedicating their time to caring for children who are orphaned or come from abusive and difficult family environments.“Only a person with a kind and patient nature can do that,” he said.Since KPHL began supporting the centres, Born Free Foundation has received K115,000, 3-Mile New Hope Centre K45,000, Bible Faith Outreach K140,000, St Mary’s Home for Vulnerable Children K90,000 and St Francis Care Centre K140,000.St Francis Care Centre founder Rebecca Rami said the latest funding would help complete the centre’s girls’ dormitory, which has been constructed with financial support from KPHL over the past three years.Meanwhile, Bible Faith Outreach founder Rosa Kepo in Mt Hagen said funding received from KPHL had enabled the organisation to construct a boys’ dormitory, which is now occupied by the children.Mr. Liria said KPHL would continue to seek support from the business community, with the next Charity Golf Challenge scheduled for November this year.He said the company looked forward to continued participation and support from businesses in raising funds for the five care centres.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL) have officially opened the Lloyds Apparel Training Centre in Arawa, marking a new step towards expanding economic opportunities and skills development in Bougainville.ABG President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, and LMEL Managing Director Balasubramanian Prabhakaran officially opened the facility this week in the presence of Central Bougainville parliamentarians, LMEL staff, community leaders, trainees and members of the public.The center is a joint initiative between the ABG and LMEL and will initially train 150 women and girls from across Bougainville in apparel manufacturing.President Toroama described the initiative as a tangible result of the peace process and a vital step toward the region's target of self-government by September 1st, 2027. "We must be mature, we must train our women, we must train our youth so that when the declaration by the President is being made for next year, you can see that empowerment," President Toroama announced.He also acknowledged LMEL’s investment in Bougainville and its efforts to support opportunities beyond the mineral sector. He emphasized that such initiatives are critical for raising the internal revenue necessary for a sovereign nation. "I told [LMEL] if you believe in the terms that Bougainville stood firm and fought to become an independent sovereign nation, then I will take you on board," Toroama recalled his first meeting with Prabhakaran.The President said partnerships such as the apparel initiative would be important in building Bougainville’s economic base and internal revenue as it prepares for self-government and its independence aspirations. He said the partnership was based on a shared interest in ensuring that economic opportunities benefit the people of Bougainville."The government will not be greedy" and "Lloyds Metal will not be greedy," President Toroama said.He said Bougainville’s aspirations for self-government and independence were now being supported by practical initiatives and are no longer ‘distant hopes. "We are not dreaming. It's no longer a dream. Your leaders have provided this opportunity for all our younger people here in Bougainville," he said. Mr. Prabhakaran described the opening as "a great painting of our dream into a reality" and said the centre was designed to enable Bougainvilleans to eventually own and manage the apparel businesses."You are not working; you own this unit. You are going to be the owner of this mission,” Prabhakaran said. He said the long-term plan was to establish smaller apparel manufacturing units in communities across Bougainville, allowing women to work closer to their homes and families. The initiative aims to eventually create opportunities for up to 2,000 people and produce uniforms and other garments for schools, hospitals, and the mining sector."We commit to see that we will make this as a global apparel manufacturing hub of the world," Prabhakaran said. The center will initially focus on meeting local demand and reducing the cost of garments in Bougainville, with the longer-term ambition of exporting locally produced garments to neighboring countries.The first 150 trainees will undertake a three-month training program with trainers already in place at the facility before full-scale commercial production begins

President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), His Excellency Ishmael Toroama says development in Bougainville is increasingly being translated into practical opportunities for the people.President Toroama made the remarks on Monday while officially opening the Lloyds Apparel Training Centre at the Arawa Country Club, alongside Managing Director of Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL), Balasubramanian Prabhakaran.The opening brought together Central Bougainville parliamentarians, community leaders, LMEL representatives, trainees and members of the public.President Toroama acknowledged the people and leaders of Bougainville for embracing the partnership between the ABG and LMEL and thanked the company for its confidence in Bougainville.“Thank you for embracing the government (ABG) and Lloyds Metals with this building. It is truly an honour for every one of us that we are always inspired to become fruitful in whatever we do and whatever we say. Managing Director for Lloyds, I would like to thank you on behalf of my government, the people of Central, South and North for believing in Bougainville,” President Toroama said. President Toroama said LMEL’s engagement was extending beyond the mineral sector, with the company also contributing to employment and socio-economic opportunities for young people in Bougainville.“It is only within a year, and you have established not only within the mineral sector but also improved the lives and well-being of the younger generation.”He said such developments were important as Bougainville works to strengthen its economic base and build the capacity needed to exercise greater self-government.President Toroama encouraged women and young people to take advantage of opportunities created through skills development, training and employment. He also urged the young people attending the opening to remain committed to their training and learn from the trainers and industry professionals supporting the initiative.As Bougainville prepares for the Self-Government Declaration on September 1, 2027, President Toroama said practical investments in people and the economy are essential to achieving the region’s aspirations.He said the developments taking place across Bougainville demonstrated that the aspirations of its people were increasingly being realised through practical action.“The development in Bougainville is no longer just a dream, but it is now a reality, provided by the government to the people of Bougainville.” 

South Pacific (SP) Brewery has appointed Noel Pepemik as the new Brewery Manager for its Moresby Brewery, marking a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to develop local talent and create opportunities for Papua New Guineans to take on senior leadership roles.Mr. Pepemik’s appointment follows 14 years of dedication and professional growth within SP Brewery, with the role now successfully localized under his leadership.Originally from Boikin in East Sepik Province, Mr. Pepemik’s rise to one of SP Brewery’s senior operational positions is a testament to perseverance, commitment and continuous professional development.Reflecting on his journey, he said his early life was shaped by challenges, including the loss of his father when he was just 10 years old.“I faced many challenges growing up, especially when my father passed away when I was 10 years old, leaving my mother to raise me and my siblings.”“I had to take on responsibilities at a young age, but I was fortunate to have the support of my elder brother and his wife to complete my education.”He began his education at Boikin Primary School on the west coast of Wewak before attending Brandi Secondary School.He later graduated from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry.His interest in science and chemistry was sparked by two secondary school teachers whose passion for the subjects inspired him to pursue a career in the field.“My teachers in high school made Chemistry and Science fun. Even after lunch, when most students were tired, I looked forward to their classes.”“Their passion inspired me to pursue science and eventually major in Chemistry.”After graduating in 2011, Mr. Pepemik faced the challenge of finding his first job. His opportunity came in 2012 when he joined SP Brewery through its Graduate Development Program.“It’s never easy finding your first job as a fresh graduate, and I was no different. SP Brewery gave me my first opportunity through its Graduate Development Program, and I remain grateful for that,” he said.Since joining the company, he has progressed through a range of roles, including Brewing Supervisor, Brewing Manager in Lae in 2020, Packaging Manager, and Acting Brewery Manager in 2025. His latest appointment sees him take charge of the Moresby Brewery.He said his career development had required significant personal commitment, including spending time outside normal working hours on training and professional development.“Many sacrifices were made along the way. Time was one of the biggest.”“I spent countless hours developing myself, often coming to work on weekends and days off to complete training and other development activities without expecting extra pay. That was my personal commitment to growth.”Mr. Pepemik credited SP Brewery’s training and development programs for helping him build his career.“SP Brewery has excellent training and development platforms that provide clear pathways for my career growth. This company has helped shape me into the professional I am today.”As he steps into his new role, Mr. Pepemik also acknowledged the mentors who supported him throughout his career, including the late Kuri Yuwai, Gia Vela, and Stella Ikasa.“This business has given me the opportunity to learn from the best professionals in the brewing industry.”“They created a supportive environment that felt like family and made coming to work something to look forward to every day.”For Mr. Pepemik, leadership is also about creating opportunities for others.He identified mentoring junior employees who have since progressed into management positions as one of his proudest achievements.“I believe that before you move up, you must prepare others to move up with you. Leadership is not only about your own success but about ensuring those around you are ready to take the next step.”He encouraged young Papua New Guineans seeking careers with SP Brewery to embrace opportunities for learning and professional development.“SP Brewery is a great place to work. Embrace every opportunity to learn, work hard and stay committed to your goals.”“The standards, systems and ways of working are second to none in Papua New Guinea.”“Commitment, discipline and a willingness to continuously develop yourself are the key to building a successful career here.”Mr. Pepemik’s appointment highlights SP Brewery’s continued investment in local talent and the development of Papua New Guinean professionals into leadership positions within the company.

The Rabaul District Administration has partnered with Devine Management Services (DMS) Limited, a local agri-company specializing in buying Galip nut (Canarium indicum). Supported by K50, 000 in funding from the district, DMS Ltd is rolling out a program across three Local Level Governments (LLGs) in the Rabaul District: Watom Island LLG, Balanataman LLG, and Kabiu LLG.The District District Primary Industry (DPI) sector and DMS Ltd have already completed initial galip tree stock surveys and awareness campaigns in Watom and Balanataman LLGs, with field operations scheduled to expand to Kabiu LLG in September.Participating Kabiu LLG origin wards include Baai, Nordup, Matalau, Rakunat, Rabuna, Korere 1, and Korere 2.During a galip nut training conducted today at the district headquarters in Kurakakaul for Kabiu LLG community leaders and farmers, DMS Ltd Project Manager Genevieve Luana said the goal of the program is to evaluate the existing galip tree stock in the district and encourage local communities to view the galip nut not just as a native delicacy, but as a high-value commercial product.“Once we completed all surveys on the bearing and non-bearing galip trees in the respective communities and have conducted awareness on the product then we can identify a central location for a galip nut buying point for Rabaul district,” Luana said.She added that at the moment there is only one DMS buying point located at Kokopo Market that is buying galip nuts at K15 per kilogram. Luana further stated that the awareness will cover topics such as identifying a good galip nut, preferred harvesting and processing techniques, packaging for buyers and their requirements, as well as safe handling and hygiene practices.DMS Ltd Enumerator and Field Officer Roboam Akai, who was also present at the training, encouraged ward members, ward recorders, and other community leaders to utilize the Galip Nut Manual distributed to them and learn more about the product.Meanwhile, District Administrator Freddy Lemeki has commended the initiative between the district and DMS Ltd, stressing that such public-private partnerships are crucial in assisting local farmers and the economy.

New Ireland Governor James Byron Chan has revived the province’s Old Age and Disability Pension, restoring a policy established under the leadership of his late father, former Governor and former Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Julius Chan.The pension scheme was temporarily shelved following the passing of Sir Julius Chan but has now been reinstated after Byron Chan won the New Ireland by-election earlier this year.The policy is aimed at supporting elderly and people living with disabilities across the province, providing financial assistance to those who have limited capacity to support themselves.Governor Chan said the pension was part of his commitment to New Irelanders who have spent their lives contributing to their families, communities and the development of New Ireland and Papua New Guinea.“It is only rightful that their perseverance that made us to be who we are today is compensated, given their limited abilities now that age is catching up.”He said elderly New Irelanders had contributed in many ways to the development of the province and the country, including raising families and supporting their communities.Governor Chan also acknowledged people living with disabilities, saying the pension would provide additional support while their families continue to assist them with their daily needs.The governor said the restoration of the pension was not about politics or demonstrating status, but about delivering services and supporting people in need.Old Age and Disability Pension payments are now being rolled out across the province following the launch at Muliama Village in the Matalai Local Level Government area of Namatanai District over the weekend.

Australia’s Team Up partners recently marked Safe Sports Day 2026 in Port Moresby, bringing together volunteer coaches, referees and young leaders to encourage safe, inclusive and respectful sporting environments for youngsters.The event was held at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre on August 7 under this year’s theme, “Stand up. Speak out. Play your part.”The day focused on helping children and young people recognise safe and unsafe behaviour, speak up about concerns, and seek support from trusted adults.Team Up partners, including Inclusive GymBad, PNG Football Association’s Just Play, PNG Hockey’s Hookin4Health, One Netball, AFL PNG’s Pilai Long Senis and League Bilong Laif, delivered interactive sports activities centred on respect, inclusion, teamwork and kindness.Pilai Long Senis Program Coordinator Jill Ravusiro said safeguarding must remain a key part of all sporting activities.“The impact of sport is measured not only by the skills we teach, but by the lives we protect.”She said every clinic, conversation, and interaction with children was an opportunity to contribute to a safer future.“Through Pilai Long Senis, safeguarding is part of everything we do, ensuring every child is protected, respected, included and empowered to thrive on and off the field.”Safeguarding efforts also extend to the Kicks for Kokoda program, which recently delivered child safeguarding and protection training with its implementing partner, the PNG Olympic Committee.The training covered child safeguarding principles, identifying signs of child harm, safe coaching practices, and reporting procedures.Kicks for Kokoda Program Coordinator Basil Jofari said equipping PNG Olympic Committee HERO athletes with safeguarding knowledge was important to ensure those working with young people understood their responsibilities.“Everyone involved in Kicks for Kokoda has a role to play in helping young people learn, play and grow in safe and inclusive environments.”

The U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea’s civil-military partners have launched a major four-day disaster management and humanitarian assistance field training exercise in Morobe Province.The exercise, which officially began yesterday, Tuesday, August 11th, will run across multiple locations in Lae city, all the way to Friday, August 14th. It is designed to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s provincial capacity to respond quickly and effectively to natural and maritime emergencies.The training is being led by the U.S. Pacific Command’s Center for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (CFE-DM), in coordination with the Wisconsin National Guard, Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), National Disaster Centre (NDC), and National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA).The exercise aims to establish stronger province-level disaster response coordination systems that can be rapidly activated during emergencies.“Disaster preparedness is the ultimate expression of our shared commitment to regional security, and this field training ensures that our forces work as a unified team to save lives and protect vulnerable communities,” said James Kenwolf, CFE-DM Training and Engagements Branch Chief.Morobe Province was selected as a key training location because of its exposure to a range of natural hazards, including riverine flooding, landslides and drought.Participants will take part in practical drills designed to test coordination between government agencies, security forces, humanitarian organizations and other emergency responders.Among the activities will be oil spill response operations at the Port of Lae, as well as search-and-rescue exercises, displaced population management and medical emergency response at the PNGDF Engineering Battalion’s Igam Barracks.The exercise brings together a broad network of local, national and international organizations.Participating organizations include the Morobe Provincial Government, Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society, International Organization for Migration (IOM), Spirit of America and World Vision.International participants include personnel and experts from the Wisconsin National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Army Pacific’s Oceania Engagement Team.U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Andy Covington said conducting the training at the provincial level would help strengthen PNG’s ability to lead its own disaster response operations.“By bringing practical training directly to the provincial level, we are reinforcing the sovereign capacity of Papua New Guinea’s first responders to lead disaster response efforts independently and efficiently,” Covington said.Beyond saving lives, organizers say stronger disaster preparedness can also protect economic development and reduce the long-term financial impact of natural disasters.Research cited by the organizers indicates that every dollar invested in disaster preparedness can prevent up to seven dollars in future losses.For communities vulnerable to disasters, effective preparation can help ensure that limited development resources remain available for essential services such as schools, healthcare and infrastructure rather than being redirected toward disaster recovery.The Lae exercise is intended to strengthen coordination and practical response capabilities while providing participants with experience working together during complex emergencies.The training also highlights the growing importance of cooperation between Papua New Guinea and the United States in strengthening disaster preparedness, humanitarian assistance and regional resilience.