From the number of challenges and issues encountered during the recent Tropical Cyclone Maila disaster, the East New Britain (ENB) Provincial Health Authority (PHA) has now revisited its rapid response action plan.Multi-tasking disciplines within the health authority in each respective district health facilities, were required to sit in a one-day surveillance training, to look at approaches when conducting rapid assessments to prioritise resources. Provincial Disease Control Officer, Joachim Kais who facilitated the training, said that more emphasis is in the district level to immediately respond should it be required at an instant. “Health workers at the district levels are targeted for the training and be the focal points of response and attend to emergencies.” “Identified senior medical officers, nurses, environment health officers, community health workers, laboratory officers and logistical support staff, all make up the rapid response, surveillance team, where they must be familiar with each other’s roles and responsibilities and execute accordingly.” The training also looked at the composite of the rapid response team, demarcating each member’s constitution to implement during an outbreak of diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, any airborne diseases and respiratory. Moreover, the rapid response action plan further focused on local capacity building and community-based health response.

The Rabaul Provincial Hospital (RPH) in East New Britain Province (ENBP) has commissioned a newer and larger incinerator to complement the unit installed last year 2025. The addition marks a continuous effort by the hospital to meet stringent waste management standards. The installation is part of a broader, World Bank-funded initiative to deploy thirty-eight incinerators across provincial and district hospitals nationwide to safely manage COVID-19 and general medical wastes. World Vision was tasked with constructing the shelters, assembling, and installing the incinerators across ten selected sites, including Rabaul Provincial Hospital. At the recent commissioning ceremony in Rabaul, Hospital Manager Dr. Jimmy Kambo highlighted that the second incinerator allows the Level 5 facility to fully comply with national waste management standards. “This solves part of our problem where previously the hospital was partially meeting the standards, where it was an environment concern to the nearby communities.” “Being very mindful of our hospital waste and with the new one, RPH has now fallen in line with the Environment Act 2000, SIPA requirement and building board regulations.” The other nine hospital sites where World Vision has successfully completed installations include the new Enga Provincial Hospital, Kudjip Nazarene Hospital, Goroka General Hospital, Kainantu District Hospital, Angau Memorial Hospital, Modilon General Hospital, Laloki Psychiatric Hospital, and Mt. Hagen Provincial Hospital. Each newly installed incinerator is designed to handle 50 kilograms of waste per cycle, specifically aiming to reduce healthcare-associated infections and ensure the safe disposal of biomedical waste. The waste management improvements, as requested by the Health Standards Branch of the National Department of Health (NDoH) and the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), require facilities: • To construct three waste treatment chambers where wastes will be stored for over 30 days to be passed on to the soak aways pits for safe disposable to nearby storm water drainage system. • To have 3 chamber ash pits to store away the ash that remains after burning of wastes. • To have an in-house shower in case there is waste spillage on the operator or the needs to cool off after burning wastes. • To have a water -tap nearby to wash willy bins after disposing medical wastes into the incinerator for burning. • To have PH strips available to test acidity of the slurry waste and ash that comes out of the burner to make it is safe for disposing and • To have gas analyzers to test the toxicity of the smoke that comes out of the chimney.

TISA Bank Limited successfully hosted an SME Road Show in Alotau, Milne Bay province on May 2nd, 2026, bringing together small and medium enterprises, cooperatives, and local business owners to learn more about the bank’s financial products and services. The event provided a platform for participants to gain a deeper understanding of TISA Bank’s SME and MSME lending products, business banking services, and tailored financial support designed to help local businesses grow and thrive. TISA Bank Acting Chief Executive Officer, Luke Kaul, said the road show reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting regional entrepreneurs and strengthening regional business communities across Papua New Guinea. “Our SME Road Shows are about getting closer to our customers and understanding their needs,” Mr. Kaul said. “Alotau has a vibrant SME community, and we are committed to providing accessible financial solutions that support business growth and economic development in the province and across the country.” Participants welcomed the initiative, highlighting the value of engaging directly with the bank. A Participant from Alotau, Valerie Joy Miller, described the event as informative and encouraging, saying it provided valuable insight into business development, networking and future opportunities. “The presentations from the different organizations were insightful, and it was encouraging to see how each contributes to growth and development.” The event was well organized and engaging, and it motivated me to think more seriously about future business opportunities. Meanwhile, TISA Bank continues to expand its outreach across the country, ensuring SMEs and cooperatives have access to the financial knowledge and tools needed to build sustainable businesses. According to TISA Bank, the Alotau SME road show forms part of TISA Bank’s broader strategy to strengthen engagement with SME customers and promote inclusive economic growth throughout the country.

Remington Technology PNG recently celebrated a major achievement after receiving two prestigious awards from Konica Minolta Australia in 2025. The company was presented with the Kankei Award, recognising the strong partnership, collaboration, and commitment shared between Remington Technology and Konica Minolta Australia in delivering quality business solutions across Papua New Guinea. Remington Technology PNG also received the Sales Achievement Award after surpassing its annual sales target by 150 per cent- a milestone reflecting the hard work of its team, the continued support of customers and the strength of its long-standing partnership with Konica Minolta Australia. As the authorised Konica Minolta partner in PNG, the company says the awards highlight its ongoing focus on innovation, customer service excellence, and helping businesses improve efficiency through smarter technology solutions. The company thanked its customers, partners, and staff for their dedication and support in making the achievement possible, adding that it looks forward to building on this success in the future.

TISA Bank and TISA Insurance have expanded their presence into Enga Province after formalizing a lease agreement with the Enga Provincial Government to establish a new branch in Wabag. The new branch will operate from the Dr. Samson Amean Commercial Centre, located next to the provincial administration headquarters centered in Wabag Town. This will provide integrated banking and insurance services to communities across the province. TISA Group Chief Executive Officer Michael Koisen, said the partnership reflects TISA Group’s ongoing commitment to bringing financial services closer to Papua New Guineans and supporting economic development in local communities. He stated that the co-location of TISA Bank and TISA Insurance, will improve convenience for customers while helping local businesses gain better access to financial and insurance services. Meanwhile, Enga Provincial Administrator Sandis Tsaka, welcomed the agreement, stating that the establishment of the new branch will strengthen financial inclusion, encourage business growth and contribute to long-term development in Enga Province. The expansion is expected to improve access to financial services for residents, entrepreneurs, and businesses while supporting continued socio-economic growth throughout the province.

Andrew Cairns has been appointed President of the Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council, strengthening his commitment to advancing trade and business relations between Australia and Papua New Guinea.Mr. Cairns, who serves as Chief Executive of Westpac PNG, takes on the role at a time when both countries are placing greater focus on economic growth, investment and stronger commercial partnerships. The Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council is a member-based organisation that promotes trade, investment and private sector collaboration between the two nations while also engaging with both governments on key business matters. Mr. Cairns said the relationship between Australia and PNG is built on strong connections between businesses, communities and people, adding that the Council plays an important role in creating opportunities for shared growth and sustainable economic development. As President, he will lead the Council’s Executive Committee, advocate on policy issues, and support initiatives aimed at boosting trade and investment, including the annual Australia PNG Business Forum and Trade Expo. Mr. Cairns has led Westpac PNG since 2025 and brings extensive international experience in banking, telecommunications and social finance, with a continued focus on digital innovation, customer growth and economic development across PNG.

The Papua New Guinea Unity Games remain in uncertainty despite renewed assurances from organizers that the long-delayed event will proceed in 2026 in Southern Highlands province. The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has maintained that preparations are continuing for the Games to be staged between June 20 to July 20, 2026. However, major concerns surrounding venue readiness, accommodation, water supply, sanitation, and public health infrastructure, continue to cast doubt over the event’s feasibility. Recent updates from organizers confirmed that several critical areas remain unresolved, including hygiene systems and the completion of sporting venues. The main venue, Oiyarep Stadium, is still undergoing work and has yet to meet operational standards required to host a national sporting event. Officials from the PNG Sports Foundation and the LOC, recently met in Mendi to review progress and discuss ongoing challenges surrounding preparations. Provincial leaders have also raised concerns about public health and safety if key infrastructure issues are not addressed before the games begin. Water supply, sanitation, and sewerage systems remain among the most pressing challenges identified by local authorities. In addition, the games have faced repeated postponements since Southern Highlands province won hosting rights in 2017 during the bid process held in West New Britain province. Over the years, the event has reportedly been delayed multiple times due to election-related violence, the COVID-19 pandemic, funding constraints, political instability, and security concerns. With projected costs now estimated at K270 million, criticism has continued to grow over the viability of the games amid wider national challenges involving healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, the National Executive Council is expected to make a final determination on whether the Games will proceed as planned, face another postponement, or be suspended indefinitely.

Prime Minister James Marape has ordered immediate action to resolve delays in fuel subsidy payments, warning that bureaucratic inefficiency will not be tolerated as some service stations face temporary closures. He revealed that K576 million remains in a Central Bank trust account designated for fuel subsidies, while K246 million has already been paid to importers. “We have a K576 million sitting in the Central Bank trust account right now while K246 million has already been paid,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This is inefficiency on the part of the bureaucrats- Treasury, Finance, Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC), and Central Bank.” Prime Minister Marape said he is investigating why payments have not been processed to address the disruption and warned that officials failing to act could face dismissal. “I am getting to the bottom of this as this is below government level, why they have not attended to this national crisis situation.” “The government has done its part. We have created a public policy space, made available a K1 billion facility, with the funds sitting at Central Bank.” “Why it is not being moved out is something I'd like to find out. If it means sacking some people who are not working, we will sack people.” The government has already released K300 million of the K1 billion facility allocated to maintain fuel prices at April 2026 levels. The intervention is aimed at shielding consumers from price increases, but operational delays have led to closures at several service stations. “I have instructed the relevant offices to attend to the matter today and restore normal supply.” “We are working to fix what went wrong along the supply chain.” In addition, the Prime Minister also commended the Minister for Rural and Economic Development Joseph Lelang, for leading the initial response, alongside the Treasury and Finance Ministers to coordinate with stakeholders. “Treasury, Finance, the Central Bank, commercial banks, ICCC, fuel importers, and fuel retailers, must work in unison to deliver on government policy and ensure consistent supply to the public.” He appealed to the public for patience while authorities restore normal operations. “We ask the public to bear with us today as we resolve this issue and restore services.” The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining stable fuel prices and ensuring uninterrupted supply through coordinated action across all agencies.

The SP PNG Hunters are continuing to deal with a growing injury toll, with 11 players currently sidelined and undergoing treatment, assessment and rehabilitation. The club released its latest K92 Cares injury update, outlining a number of injuries affecting the squad as the season progresses. Among the more serious cases is a fractured forearm suffered by Samuel Wak, while Noah Yangomina continues rehabilitation from an ACL injury. Vane Manumai is currently recovering from a high ankle sprain and Whallan Tau-Loi remains sidelined with a knee injury. Meanwhile, Graham Rex is being treated for a low-grade hamstring strain, while Koso Bandi is awaiting scan results for a knee issue. Several other squad members are currently receiving medical care including Seal Kalo, who is receiving care for a dental issue, Elijah Roltinga and Douglas David with minor knee concerns, Myles Banam with a lower leg strain, and Carlos Lung recovering from a minor ankle sprain. The club’s medical and performance staff continue to monitor each player’s recovery, with further updates expected in the coming weeks as the Hunters look to get their squad back to full strength.

East New Britain province (ENBP)recently hosted the Final Validation Workshop on the proposed Oil Palm Industry Authority Bill and the Oil Palm Industry Management Bill, in Kokopo. Speaking at the Workshop on Thursday, May 15th, the ENB Governor Michael Marum said that the province continues to recognize the economic opportunities the industry can bring through employment, rural development, and smallholder participation. The Governor also acknowledged the efforts of development partners, industry stakeholders, and government agencies in supporting the growth of the oil palm industry, not only in East New Britain but also around the country. While calling for stronger measures to address concerns affecting local farmers and landowners. He also acknowledged the work undertaken by the Minister for Oil Palm, Francis Maneke, Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC), and development partners, in progressing consultations and policy discussions aimed at strengthening the sector. At the same time, he also highlighted that East New Britain has experienced its fair share of dissatisfaction over recent developments within the industry over the past ten years, particularly concerns relating to infrastructure support, market access, benefit sharing, transparency, and participation of local landowners and growers. He stressed that any future growth of the industry must be inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial to local communities. “There is a need for stronger collaboration between government, industry leaders, development partners, and local communities to ensure the interests of customary landowners and smallholder farmers are properly protected.” Moreover, Governor Marum gave assurance that the East New Britain Provincial government remains committed to supporting responsible development that improves livelihoods and creates long-term economic opportunities for rural communities across the province. He encouraged continued dialogue and cooperation amongst all stakeholders as the proposed Bills progress towards Parliament. “Development must improve the lives of our local farmers and communities, while ensuring that benefits are shared fairly and sustainably,” Governor Marum concluded.

The People’s Republic of China formally presented US$1, 000, 000 (K4.2 million) in disaster relief assistance to Papua New Guinea to support recovery and reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Maila. The official handover ceremony was held in Port Moresby, attended by Prime Minister James Marape. The presentation was made by Mr. Pang Hanzhao, Minister-Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Chinese Embassy, on behalf of the Government of the People’s Republic of China. Minister-Counselor Pang delivered the cheque for essential relief support and resources to assist communities impacted by the cyclone. The event underscored the longstanding bilateral friendship between PNG and China and China’s commitment to standing with PNG in times of natural disaster. Meanwhile, the Senior PNG government representatives who were present at the ceremony included the Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko, representatives from the National Disaster Office, and senior officials from the Department of Defence. In thanking the Chinese Government, Prime Minister Marape said the assistance arrives at a critical time as the government continues to support affected communities throughout PNG. “The assistance from the People’s Republic of China comes at a critical time as we continue to support communities affected by Cyclone Maila and is gratefully appreciated by the Government and people of Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This partnership demonstrates the strength of our bilateral ties and the value of working together in times of need.”

The PNG Barramundis secured another victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier 2026 Super Six stage, defeating Indonesia by 38 runs at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Japan. Batting first, PNG posted 130/7 from their 20 overs before producing a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Indonesia for 92 in 19 overs. Captain Assadolla Vala, led from the front and was named Player of the Match after scoring 34 runs from 33 balls, including two boundaries and a six, while also claiming 2 wickets for just 3 runs from 2 overs. Lega Siaka provided valuable support with 32 runs from 37 balls, while Alei Nao finished unbeaten on 18 from 11 deliveries to help lift PNG to a competitive total. Hila Vare added 12 runs while Patrick Nou contributed 9. Indonesia’s bowlers worked hard to slow the PNG innings, with Sudhakar Jegannathan taking 2/14 and Kavin Chaddha claiming 2/19. In reply, the PNG Barramundis bowling attack dominated from the outset, restricting Indonesia to 92 all out. Aue Oru delivered the standout bowling performance with an impressive 4 wickets for 13 runs from 3 overs. Meanwhile, Vala continued his strong all-round display with 2/3, while John Kariko and Sese Bau claimed one wicket each. This latest win maintains PNG's strong momentum in the Super Six stage as they continue their pursuit of qualification in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup pathway. The Barramundis will now regroup for two final high-stakes fixtures, facing Vanuatu on Sunday, May 17, before wrapping up their campaign against tournament hosts Japan on Monday, May 18.