The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Intent (MOI) with the Universities of Wisconsin, creating the first formal academic partnership between a Papua New Guinean and an American university. The agreement was signed on May 29th at the U.S. Embassy's American Center in Port Moresby by UPNG Vice-Chancellor Ian Findlay and Universities of Wisconsin Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Johannes Britz, who joined virtually. The three-year agreement will promote academic and cultural exchanges, including student degree pathways, faculty and student research collaboration, virtual exchange programs, and campus visits. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Alex Berenberg said the partnership demonstrates the strength of U.S.-PNG educational cooperation and a shared commitment to advancing academic excellence. The partnership is expected to expand educational opportunities for Papua New Guinean students while strengthening institutional ties between the two countries. The three-year agreement establishes a foundation for cooperation across a range of shared academic priorities, including: Joint development of a framework to communicate a shared understanding of the relationship's nature and goals, reduce barriers for participating campuses, and create clear pathways to participation, Exploration of degree pathways for students, Survey and communication of opportunities for faculty and student research collaboration, Organization of virtual exchange opportunities, and Encouragement of in-person visits between both campuses. UPNG was honored to partake in such a partnership. “Education has always been at the heart of Papua New Guinea's development, and partnerships like this one remind us that our ambitions are shared beyond our borders.” Meanwhile, a statement from The University of Wisconsin affirmed the partnership. “This reflects our deep belief that universities have a responsibility to build bridges across cultures and continents — and we are eager to learn from one another as we work toward shared goals in research, education, and exchange." The Universities of Wisconsin serve more than 160,000 students across 13 campuses, while UPNG remains Papua New Guinea’s oldest and largest university. Both institutions will appoint coordinators to oversee collaboration and review progress, with the agreement open for extension beyond its initial three-year term.

Acclaimed Papua New Guinean–born Australian artist Ngaiire is bringing her international career back home to launch Musik Blok, a bold new mentorship initiative based in Goroka, Eastern Highlands. The four-time ARIA Award nominee designed the pilot program to equip the next generation of Papua New Guinean artists with the skills, infrastructure, and industry access she originally had to leave the country to find. After building a globally respected career spanning Australia, Europe, and the United States, Ngaiire is now investing that wealth of experience directly into the local music community. “There is no shortage of brilliance in PNG,” she said. “What’s missing is access. I had to leave to learn how this industry works. Musik Blok is about making sure the next generation doesn’t have to.” Supported by the Australian Government through the Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program, this inaugural initiative will bring a select group of emerging talent into an intensive, two-week song writing and production lab. Led by Ngaiire alongside experienced mentors and established PNG musicians, the residency takes place in newly developed creative spaces near Goroka, focusing on practical, career-building skills and high-quality recorded outcomes. Following a highly competitive national application process, eight promising PNG artists have been selected to participate in the debut Musik Blok cohort: · Michael Vaki — MC/Rapper · Philip Kurina — MC/Rapper · Roslyn Koisen — Singer/Songwriter · Davincy Rodgers — MC/Rapper · Oliver Bangkoma — Singer/Songwriter · Brendan Lahui — Songwriter · Danielle Morgan — Singer/Songwriter · Martina Kara — Singer/Songwriter “In my career I’ve seen what happens when artists are given the right environment to grow. The confidence shifts. The ambition expands. I’m deeply committed to building that environment here in PNG, not just once, but for the long term,” said Ngaiire. In a country where professional music infrastructure remains limited outside major urban centers, this initiative represents a major stride toward locally led creative development. Musik Blok ultimate aims to shift the paradigm, positioning PNG not merely as an exporter of raw talent, but as a nation fully capable of cultivating its own sustainable, thriving music ecosystem.

The people of Papua New Guinea (PNG) can expect a major water project coming up that would transform the way clean water is accessed by the population. This will be made possible through the EIB Global, the development arm of the European Investment Bank (EIB), with a $25 million financing to Papua New Guinea (PNG) to expand networks for drinking water in towns across the country and in the capital Port Moresby city. The project aims to bring steady supplies of potable water to an extra 400,000 people in Papua New Guinea. The EIB Global support takes the form of a loan to the government of Papua New Guinea, the most populous Pacific island nation with more than 10 million inhabitants. State-owned utility Water PNG will carry out the project. This concessional loan is supported by the European Union with a €13.4 million investment grant and €3 million for expert help to implement the project, in line with the EU’s Global Gateway investment strategy. Only about a fifth of Papua New Guinea’s population has access to reliable water services. The EIB Global loan will finance new water connections in underserved urban areas and reduce water losses in Port Moresby. This in turn will support national efforts to increase urban water coverage to 95% by 2030. “Our financing will help Papua New Guinea extend clean, reliable water services to more communities, improve living conditions and support more resilient and sustainable growth across the country,” said EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle, who oversees its operations in the Pacific region. “Investment in water systems is essential to improving public health and strengthening long-term development.” The financing agreement was announced today, Tuesday 2nd June during the EU–Papua New Guinea Business Forum in Port Moresby city. This project is part of Global Gateway, the EU’s external investment strategy for sustainable development.

Prime Minister James Marape recently led a high-level government delegation to Kikori in Gulf Province to conduct a familiarization tour and inspect the proposed site for the upcoming Papua LNG Development Forum and its associated project activities. Joining the Prime Minister on this strategic visit were Gulf Governor Chris Haiveta, Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina, and Finance Minister Thomas Opa. According to Prime Minister Marape, the visit was designed to allow the National Government to consult directly with Gulf provincial leaders, landowners, and key stakeholders on preparations for the Papua LNG Development Forum, which is scheduled to take place late next month. He emphasized that given the immense national significance of the Papua LNG Project, it was vital for relevant ministers and leaders to participate so that all stakeholders maintain a common understanding of the proposed forum location and local infrastructure requirements. “We headed out to Kikori to discuss the Development Forum with the Gulf leadership and will take advice from the Gulf leadership as to what to do as we begin discussions in Kikori,” Prime Minister Marape stated. The Prime Minister underscored that the Papua LNG Project remains one of Papua New Guinea’s most vital economic development opportunities and a cornerstone of the country's long-term economic growth strategy. He explained that reaching a Final Investment Decision (FID) for Papua LNG will trigger a continuous chain of energy project construction and development across the country over the next decade and beyond. Several major oil and gas projects are lined up over the next 10 to 20 years, including Papua LNG, P’nyang, Pasca A, and other future petroleum developments. “These projects will provide long-term construction activity, production opportunities, employment and revenue for PNG,” Prime Minister Marape noted, adding that the state is looking at the next 10 to 15 years as a period of sustained energy sector activity, encompassing both construction and long-term production. While Papua New Guinea’s economy continues to be anchored by major resource developments in the oil and gas sector, agriculture and other non-resource sectors also contribute strongly to national growth. The non-mining and petroleum sector has recorded an approximate growth rate of four percent, driven largely by agriculture, where the majority of Papua New Guineans continue to earn their livelihoods. The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s strict commitment to ensuring that natural resource development delivers greater benefits directly to citizens, local businesses, landowners, and impacted communities. “Our government is predominantly known for the principle that we are fighting to take back more benefits for our country,” Prime Minister Marape declared. “This Pangu administration has made it absolutely clear that we will not compromise on ensuring the State secures around or above 55 percent of the total benefit from our major resource projects. There can be no clearer example than the New Porgera Limited Agreement.” “The resource sector industry knows very well our vision and where we want to take the country. We want to secure above 55 percent as the total stake for the State.” “I want to thank all resource developers, investors and partners for understanding our position. This is being achieved within our existing laws and through good, amicable negotiations that benefit all stakeholders.” Reflecting on his administration's tenure, the Prime Minister acknowledged that while his government may not have solved every socio-economic challenge over the past seven years, it has remained focused on expanding the economy, increasing national participation in major projects, and securing a fairer share of natural resource wealth. He pointed out that bringing pipeline projects like Papua LNG in Gulf Province and the Wafi-Golpu Project in Morobe Province online will generate vital additional revenue, strengthen foreign exchange reserves, and create long-term economic opportunities for the population. In tandem with these developments, ongoing petroleum exploration remains active as Prime Minister Marape revealed that a deep-water drilling vessel is expected to commence exploration activities soon in the maritime waters between Central Province and Western Province. This continuous activity reinforces Papua New Guinea’s international standing as a stable and reliable destination for oil and gas investment. “Since 1990 we have exported oil, and since 2014 we have exported LNG. We have never had one cargo disrupted,” the Prime Minister highlighted. “PNG has maintained a strong reputation as a dependable energy producer. You have wars and conflicts in other parts of the world, but PNG’s Kumul Marine Terminal in Gulf Province has not missed an export shipment since 1990, and the PNG LNG export facility has maintained uninterrupted exports since 2014.” “That is a reputation we should be proud of. PNG continues to tell the world that we are a safe, stable and dependable place for oil and gas business.” To further advance the project, Prime Minister Marape recently met with TotalEnergies Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Patrick Pouyanné in Paris to discuss Papua LNG and broader future investment opportunities. The project is currently being actively progressed by the State Team in partnership with TotalEnergies, which serves as the project operator, alongside its joint venture partners. The upcoming Development Forum is a mandatory process under the Oil and Gas Act 1998 designed to bring together landowners, provincial governments, and the State. This platform will allow all parties to finalize benefit-sharing arrangements and address project implementation issues ahead of future development milestones, ensuring that Papua LNG delivers a lasting positive legacy for the people of Papua New Guinea.

The annual Hausples Real Estate Show is on again this year, and the BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) is once again supporting the event. BSP officially became the Diamond Sponsor after giving K45,000 to help host the upcoming 2026 Hausples Real Estate Show in Port Moresby city this month. A partner since the event’s inception in 2017, BSP continues to champion the vision of making homeownership a reality for Papua New Guineans who are looking for a good home to buy and live in. The 2026 show, scheduled for Friday 26th and Saturday 27th June at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex, remains the premier platform for property seekers and investors alike. Hausples General Manager, Arne Alfajardo, expressed his gratitude for the bank's continued support as the Diamond Sponsor, adding that this long-standing partnership reflects a shared commitment to making homeownership more accessible for all Papua New Guineans. “We look forward to delivering another impactful event together in 2026.” BSP’s Head of Retail Lending, Ms. Arinola Adeleye noted that property investment is often the most significant financial milestone a person will achieve. “BSP is dedicated to guiding customers through every step of this journey—from achieving personal milestones to navigating the technicalities of property checks,” she stated. Ms. Adeleye also emphasised the long-term wealth-building benefits of transitioning from renting to owning and property. “Through years of assisting customers, we have seen how purchasing a home builds equity over time. Instead of paying a landlord, your monthly payments invest in an asset that appreciates.” BSP has funded over 2,000 first-homeowner loans through its specialised lending products. Recognising the challenges faced by new buyers, Ms. Adeleye emphasised that the bank understands the 'first home buyers' hurdle. “The critical first step in property hunting is awareness,” Ms. Adeleye added. “We can conduct pre-assessments to help you understand your borrowing capacity before you begin 'window shopping'. This saves time and gives our customers the confidence to negotiate a fair sale price.” BSP’s First Home Ownership Loan is specifically designed with lower interest rates and longer repayment terms to make this decision a reality. BSP is pleased to partner with Hausples for what promises to be a vital information gathering event for future homeowners. “Our goal is to ensure customers are financially prepared before they make the offer to buy a property,” Adeleye concluded. “We invite everyone - from first-time buyers to seasoned investors - to visit the BSP booth at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium this June.”

For the first time, the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) now has a female appointed in the top position as permanent female Deputy Secretary. Mrs. Robyn Ata, who becomes DPLGA's first permanent female Deputy Secretary, taking up the position of Deputy Secretary– Strategic Policy and Digital Integration. She was among eight other female officers to senior management positions within the Department. Prior to her appointment, Mrs. Ata served with the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council for 18 years before joining DPLGA. Mrs. Ata acknowledged the leadership of Secretary Leo for installing a new wave of leadership by promoting Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Policy through appointment of women leaders at the top decision-making table in the department. Mrs. Ata is not new to the public service and brings with her institutional knowledge on Public Sector Reforms, Strategic Planning and Public Governance and Central Government Administration. She conveyed her deep appreciation to be part of the Central department that connects Waigani to the village by operation of the Organic Law on Provincial Governments and Local-Level Governments. “I am looking forward to leading the Division and most particularly driving the National Framework for Ward Development and National Ward Records System through digital innovation,” Mrs. Ata proudly stressed. Since the establishment of the former Department of Development Administration and Native Affairs, now known as the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, in 1977, no woman had previously been appointed to a permanent Deputy Secretary position within the Department; she is the first. Meanwhile, the appointments mark a significant shift in leadership within the Department and provide greater opportunities for women to contribute to policy development, decision-making and the delivery of government services throughout the country. The inclusion of more women in senior management positions also strengthens gender balance within the Department and reflects the Government's broader commitment to empowering women in leadership. DPLGA Secretary Mr. Philip Leo congratulated the newly appointed female executives and challenged them to excel in their respective roles. "The Department recognizes your contribution to the Independent State of Papua New Guinea. Your appointments to these important leadership positions place you in a position to lead, influence positive changes, and deliver effective government services to our people," Mr. Leo said. The appointments signify a new chapter for DPLGA as it continues to strengthen its workforce and promote inclusive leadership that reflects the diversity and capabilities of Papua New Guinea's public service.

Construction of new softball facilities at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) is set to begin soon under a partnership between the Australian Government, the university, the PNG Baseball and Softball Confederation, and the PNG Sports Foundation. The Softball Facilities Development Project will deliver two competition-standard softball fields and essential amenities by October 2026. The project is funded through Australia's Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP). Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Elizabeth Le Bas said the project reflects the strong partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia in supporting sport and community development. “We are very happy to be delivering this project in partnership with PNG and recognize the power of sport and the many benefits it brings to the community.” “I want to thank our partners who are working hard to realize this project, and we look forward to seeing the new diamonds come to life.” UPNG Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Findlay welcomed the project, saying the facilities would benefit both softball associations and the university community. “The University is delighted to partner on this project and provide a location for these Softball facilities.” PNG Baseball and Softball Confederation President Jenny Paak said the new fields would provide a safe and secure venue for competitions while encouraging greater student participation in the sport. Meanwhile, PNG Sports Foundation CEO Micah James said the facilities would strengthen softball development and improve access to quality sporting infrastructure. The project supports PNG's National Sports Policy 2020–2030 and will prioritize local contractors, suppliers and tradespeople during construction, creating employment and skills development opportunities

The Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) has received eleven (11) new Senior Provincial Monitoring Officers (SPMOs) to carry out the duties of the department in the provinces. The 11 of twenty (20) newly appointed Senior Provincial Monitoring Officers (SPMOs) from the Department deployed to provinces, have officially signed their employment contracts. DPLGA Secretary, Philip Leo, announced that the officers are the first appointees to fill newly created positions established under the Department's recent organizational restructure. "The deployment of the SPMOs is a key initiative under the Reset@50 Agenda, aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and service delivery throughout the country. "Taking the Oath is a serious commitment to the Nation. Public officers must uphold transparency, accountability, and honesty, especially within a system that has historically faced governance challenges. "This oath is not merely an Administrative Act; it is a pledge to serve with integrity and responsibility. We have the power and the laws to make a difference. It is time to reset and rebuild trust with our people," Secretary Leo challenged them. He called for a renewed commitment to reorganize, rebuilding and upholding high standards in the public service, beginning with personal accountability. Secretary Leo reminded the officers that by signing their contracts and taking their oath, they were making a solemn commitment to the Nation. "Your commitment is built on transparency, accountability and integrity. Any breach of your contract or oath of office will result in immediate termination," he said. The responsibilities of the SPMOs are grounded in Section 110(3) of the Organic Law on Provincial Governments and Local-level Governments. The key responsibilities of the SPMOs include: Monitoring and overseeing the operations of District Development Authorities (DDAs), Local-level Governments (LLGs), Wards, LLG Special Purpose Authorities (SPAs), Town and City Authorities. Enforcing the timely submission of Annual Financial Statements, due on 31 March each year, and Provincial Performance Reports, due on 30 June annually. Conducting on-site verification and reliability audits of infrastructure projects to ensure that reported developments accurately reflect actual implementation. Monitoring the rollout of the DPLGA National Framework for Ward Development and ensuring that funds allocated to LLGs are invested in five priority development areas: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Early Childhood Education, Community Health and Hygiene, Community Peace and Order and Solar Energy initiatives. The 11 SPMOs also recently completed a one-week induction training program conducted by the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG). Among the 11 was Mrs. Dorothy Kisau Kukum- female officer deployed to the Enga Province.

The welfare of employees of the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) is being taken care of especially with staff accommodation, a roof over their heads.This was seen just recently when the NGCB held a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of 21 new staff houses in Port Moresby city. Speaking during the ceremony, NGCB Chief Executive Officer & Registrar Ms. Imelda Agon described the initiative as a long-term investment in the welfare and future of employees and their families. “I recall a time when the office assistant shared with me the challenges of his living conditions in a settlement despite being hardworking, committed, and dedicated to his duties,” Ms. Agon said. “That experience opened my eyes to the reality faced by many employees who continued to report to work every day, deliver results, and serve the organization diligently despite facing difficult housing conditions and lacking access to proper homes for their families.” Those experiences became the driving force behind the establishment of the NGCB Housing Scheme. “From that concern and compassion came the vision for this initiative — a program designed not only to support staff welfare, but to restore dignity, stability, and hope for our employees and their families,” she added. The NGCB recognizes its employees as the backbone of the organization and remains committed to investing in their wellbeing and future, and the new 21 allotments demonstrate NGCB’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities for more staff to realize the dream of owning their own home. Ms. Agon concluded by encouraging all beneficiaries of the scheme to continue serving the organization with commitment, integrity, and excellence. The groundbreaking ceremony marks another important milestone in NGCB’s ongoing efforts to improve staff welfare and promote long-term social and economic stability for its workforce and their families.

A five-year-old girl from East Sepik Province is on the path to a normal childhood after receiving life-changing surgery through a specialist paediatric surgical mission in Wewak. For nearly five years, Danisha Seph and her family lived with the challenges of a congenital anorectal condition, a birth defect that affected her ability to pass waste normally. Born on March 3, 2021, in Miko village, Danisha's arrival brought joy to her family, but concerns emerged just weeks later when doctors discovered her condition. Her father, Daniel Seph, a load master with Frieda River Limited (FRL), said the diagnosis left the family facing an uncertain future. “She was very small when we found out. At that time, everything was confusing,” he recalled. To keep her alive, doctors carried out emergency procedures and several surgeries over the years. While these interventions helped manage the condition, they did not provide a permanent solution. An opening created on the side of her abdomen allowed waste to pass, but caring for her remained difficult and painful. “It was very difficult. Whenever we changed her, she would feel pain. Sometimes we had to use nappies because other methods were too hard,” Daniel said. As Danisha grew older, the physical and emotional challenges increased. Her family often kept her close to home to protect her privacy and spare her from unwanted attention. Seeking specialist treatment proved difficult. The family was referred from Kunjingini Health Centre to Boram Hospital in Wewak, where they learned that the surgery she needed was not available locally. Travelling elsewhere for treatment was beyond their financial means. “We were told doctors would come, so we waited,” Daniel said. That wait ended when specialist surgeons arrived in Wewak as part of a paediatric surgical mission supported by partners, including Frieda River Limited. The visiting medical team performed corrective surgery that significantly improved Danisha’s condition. “They did what other doctors could not do. They helped correct the way her body works,” Daniel said. The surgery marked a major milestone, creating a proper pathway for her body to function more naturally and offering hope for a healthier future. While at the hospital, Daniel met other patients living with the same condition, including teenagers and young adults who had also been waiting years for specialised treatment. “We saw many people like our daughter. They were also grateful for the doctors who came to help,” he said. FRL Country Manager Dr Joel Hamago said the company was proud to support initiatives that make a meaningful difference in people's lives. “FRL is proud to support this life-changing surgical mission, which reflects our ongoing commitment to contributing meaningfully as a responsible development partner,” Dr Hamago said. Although Danisha’s treatment is not yet complete, doctors say she is close to full correction. Following a recent review at Boram Hospital, they confirmed she requires one final adjustment. Her surgical wounds have healed, and she continues receiving care at home while awaiting her next review. For Daniel and his family, the transformation has already been remarkable. “Once everything is complete, her life will be normal. She will be a normal child again,” he said. For the first time since her birth, Danisha’s future is no longer defined by medical limitations, but by the opportunities and experiences that every child deserves.

National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop has praised Marianville Secondary School for its six decades of excellence in educating and empowering young women in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Governor Parkop joined Catholic Church leaders, staff, parents, alumni and students on Saturday May 30th to celebrate the school's 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, marking a significant milestone since its establishment in 1966. In his keynote address, Governor Parkop described Marianville as more than just a school, saying it has served as a place where generations of young women have been shaped by values of discipline, respect, compassion and faith. “For six decades, Marianville has grounded girls in strong, positive values. In a world that changes fast, those values are the anchor. Marianville didn’t just prepare students for tests. It prepared them for life,” he said. Governor Parkop highlighted the school's long-standing academic achievements, noting that Marianville has consistently ranked among Papua New Guinea’s top-performing schools at both Grade 10 and Grade 12 levels. He attributed its success to the dedication of teachers, the commitment of students, and the strong support of parents and guardians. He also acknowledged the contributions of Marianville graduates, many of whom have gone on to become nurses, teachers, lawyers, judges, engineers, entrepreneurs, public servants, and community leaders. “When you educate a girl, you strengthen a family. When you strengthen families, you strengthen Papua New Guinea,” Governor Parkop said. Reflecting on the school's beginnings, he commended the Catholic Church and the Sisters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart for establishing an all-girls secondary school at a time when educational opportunities for girls were limited. He noted that Marianville was founded during a period when Papua New Guinea had only a handful of senior high schools as the country prepared for independence. Looking to the future, Governor Parkop challenged the school to continue leading in key areas such as digital literacy, science and technology education, mental health and wellbeing, and leadership development. “As we celebrate this 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, Marianville Secondary School must set the vision for the next 60 years — to train young women to set goals, develop plans and implement them, not only for their own lives but also to help shape the future of our nation,” he said. The Governor also stressed the importance of strategic planning and effective implementation to help achieve Papua New Guinea’s long-term development goals, including Vision 2050 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He expressed gratitude to the Sisters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, the Catholic Church, missionaries, principals, teachers, staff, parents and alumni whose contributions have helped build Marianville’s legacy over the past six decades. To support the school's continued development, Governor Parkop announced a commitment of K200,000 towards the construction of a security boundary fence and an additional K60,000 for other school development projects. “Marianville remains a beacon for young women and a proud contributor to Papua New Guinea’s future,” Governor Parkop said as he congratulated the school on its 60th anniversary.

Prime Minister James Marape has reflected on the achievements of his government ever since taking office seven (7) years ago and is content with the results in all the sectors so far. Prime Minister Marape described the period since taking office on the 30th of May 2019, as a Journey of Economic Recovery, Institutional Reform, Nation Building, and laying strong foundations for Papua New Guinea's future despite significant Domestic and Global Challenges. Marking the Seventh Anniversary of his Election as Prime Minister over the weekend, Marape thanked the People of Papua New Guinea (PNG), Coalition Partners, Members of Parliament, Provincial and Local-Level Governments, Public Servants, Churches, Development Partners, and ordinary citizens who have contributed to the country's progress over the past 7 years. “It has been my privilege to be given the opportunity to lead our Country for the last Seven years. I thank all who have assisted in Government and Nation-Building during this period as we worked together for Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said. “When we took Office on 30th May 2019, the challenges before us were substantial. The Economy was in Recession, Foreign Exchange Shortages were severe, Business Confidence was affected, and National Interest had too often been overtaken by Personal Interest. We set out to place our Country back on a path where no place, no person, and no child would be left behind.” Prime Minister Marape noted that his Government subsequently faced additional Challenges, including the COVID-19 Pandemic, Global Inflationary Pressures, Supply Chain disruptions, Geopolitical tensions, and Commodity Market volatility. “Seven years on, we may not have achieved everything we set out to do, but we have achieved much and established strong foundations for future Growth and Prosperity.” Looking ahead, Marape acknowledged that challenges remain but expressed confidence in the country's future. “The work of Nation-Building never ends. There is still much to do, but the foundations have been laid. Our Vision remains to build a wealthy, healthy, educated, safe, and united Papua New Guinea where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed. I remain optimistic about our Nation's future. Together we have overcome challenges, and together we will continue building a stronger Papua New Guinea for future generations.” Prime Minister Marape concluded by thanking Papua New Guineans for their trust, resilience, patience, and continued support over the past seven years. “Papua New Guinea’s best days are ahead of us. Let us continue working together to build the country our children and grandchildren deserve.”