Prime Minister James Marape has offered Papua New Guinea’s extensive experience in mining policy to assist the Solomon Islands in developing a modern resource regime.The initiative aims to maximize local benefits while keeping the sector attractive to investors.Prime Minister Marape welcomed an invitation from Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale for PNG mining companies to participate directly in developing mineral projects in the neighbouring nation.During bilateral discussions in Port Moresby, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that PNG has learned valuable lessons over decades of resource development- encompassing both successes and critical mistakes.“As you develop your mining laws, it is important to get them right from the beginning,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Papua New Guinea is still refining its own resource laws, but we have accumulated decades of experience.”“We are prepared to send our resource lawyers and technical experts to work with your team so that together we can develop policies that deliver long-term benefits for our people.”Both nations sit on the Pacific Ring of Fire, giving them immense potential to build prosperous economies from natural resources.PNG’s current policy framework seeks to ensure the State receives at least 55 percent of the total economic benefits from major projects through taxes, royalties, and equity.“Our objective is simple. Investors must make a reasonable return because they bring capital, technology and expertise.”“At the same time, the country that owns the resources must also receive a fair and equitable share of the benefits.”He stressed that equity represents direct ownership and decision-making power, which is fundamentally different from taxation.“Tax is simply what every company pays for doing business in our country. Equity represents ownership.”“When the State and landowners hold equity, they sit at the decision-making table and participate directly in the long-term value created by the project.”Drawing on national history, Prime Minister Marape noted that PNG’s resource reforms were heavily shaped by the Bougainville crisis at the Panguna Mine, where landowners initially received little direct ownership.“The Bougainville crisis remains a lasting reminder of what can happen when resource development is not perceived as fair by the people who own the land.”“Our biggest lesson is this: if you do not get the relationship with customary landowners right, the project will ultimately fail. Landowners must be central to any resource development policy.”Because resources in both nations are located on customary land, Prime Minister Marape highlighted the need to move away from legacy colonial agreements.“We carry the burden of history. Many of our older mining agreements reflected another era, and today we continue working to secure fairer outcomes for Papua New Guinea.”As a modern success story, he cited the recent reopening of the Porgera Gold Mine, where PNG interests negotiated a 51 percent stake. Prime Minister Wale expressed his intention to pursue a similar equity model in the Solomon Islands.“I commend Prime Minister Wale for embracing a vision that ensures the people of Solomon Islands receive a greater share of the wealth generated from their own natural resources,” Prime Minister Marape said.“He has invited Papua New Guinea mining companies to partner in the development of mining projects in Solomon Islands under a benefit-sharing model where Solomon Islands interests would retain 51 per cent equity while the investor holds 49 per cent, similar to the approach we negotiated at Porgera.”This partnership signals PNG’s emergence as a respected regional mining nation.State-owned entities Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited and Ok Tedi Mining Limited have already been tasked to explore these new opportunities.Prime Minister Marape also emphasized the importance of local content policies to ensure mining operations support domestic businesses and employment.“A successful mining industry is not measured only by taxes and royalties. It is also measured by how much business activity, employment, procurement and value creation remain within the country.”“Mining operations spend millions of dollars every month on goods and services. The more local businesses that supply those goods and services, the more wealth remains circulating in the national economy.”While the Solomon Islands has a unique greenfield opportunity to establish these policies early, Prime Minister Marape cautioned against creating overly harsh fiscal regimes that might deter investors.“Resource investors are not charities- they invest where projects remain commercially viable. You cannot expect investors to pay premium taxes while also surrendering excessive equity.”“Governments must strike the right balance, so investors continue to achieve internationally competitive returns while resource-owning countries receive a substantially greater share of the overall benefits.”Ultimately, the collaboration aims to build a stronger Pacific resource economy.“Our experience has taught us many valuable lessons. If those lessons can help the Solomon Islands avoid the mistakes we made and build a stronger resource economy from the beginning, while at the same time creating opportunities for Papua New Guinea companies to invest across the Pacific, then our partnership will benefit both our nations,” Prime Minister Marape concluded.

The 2027 National General Election (NGE) is coming up and those in the public sector intending to contest the election are being reminded to resign by October 2026, which is six months prior to the commencement of the election period next year.This reminder is in a circular issued by the Department of Personnel Management (DPM), which contains details further explaining the constitutional requirements along with the standard operation procedures for public servants’ resignations prior to the actual election period.The circular- Circular No. 15 of 2026 was issued yesterday, Monday 29th June by the Department Secretary Ms. Taies Sansan, and addressed to all departmental heads, heads of public authorities, all constitutional office holders, all provincial administrators and public servants.The circular states that Section 55 of the Public Services (Management) Act 1995 (as amended) requires that all public officers wishing to contest the 2027 NGE shall resign from office six (6) months prior to the date of issue of Writs by the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commissioner. The provisions of the Act for this purpose apply to all State Services and other Public Authorities.The acting Electoral Commissioner has declared that the Writs for the 2027 NGE will be issued on the 29th of April 2027 and the date six months prior to the issue of the Writs is 29th October 2026.     In terms of Service- related Entitlements and Reinstatement, all salary and allowances and other contractual entitlements due to the person resigning to contest the 2027 NGE, shall be ceased and all State properties under their custody are to be returned no later than 29th October 2026.“Each aspiring candidate shall be removed from the payroll forthwith in the next available pay,” the secretary stated, adding that the office held by the person at the time of resignation to contest the NGE will become vacant and be filled substantively or in an acting capacity by another officer.The circular also explained that if the officer is unsuccessful in winning a seat in the election, the officer has no automatic right to be re- admitted to the Public Service but may apply for re- appointment through the normal selection and recruitment process prescribed un the Public Service General Order No. 3.It went on to say that the officer may exercise the option to leave the service without receiving service- related termination benefits and if re- admitted to the Public Service, after being unsuccessful at the election, the period of absence will be taken as leave without pay.

The Gama Football Association in Markham District, Morobe is taking a new view to operate soccer in the area by registering with a soccer governing body. The Association has been running for decades with some players being exposed to national level but has not been formally registered with soccer governing body, the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), for many years. This time, the new executives, through the leadership of Sasu Gideon, have gained confidence from communities, new member clubs and officials, to climb the new heights. Sasu was a former player for the Association who later went on to play for Markham Football Club at the National Soccer League stage. His executives, formed to drive the code at the local level, have already gained interests from Markham District Development Authority (MDDA) and Manus Admiralty Football Club. Sasu said the new executives under his leadership don't want to repeat the old approaches where past executives had failed to register their local Association with the PNGFA. "We highly commend our District Development Authority through the chairmanship of Member for Parliament (MP) Koni Iguan to intervene and support us," Sasu said with the support from MDDA, the Association hosted Manus Admiralty Football Club for friendly matches. He added that with the MDDA support, the Association successfully staged its preseason this year and will now look at running proper season in the second week of July. While running the proper season, they will look at approaching Lae Football Association to become their affiliate to the PNGFA.Teams who participated in the preseason matches were from Umi and Artzera Local Level Government (LLG) council areas with few players from the Onga Wafa LLG area, who came on and played with other clubs. 

Western Pacific University (WPU) has reached a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey with the official launch of its AI-Enabled Digital Knowledge Hub, known as LearnX, alongside the distribution of SmartX Digital Learning Tablets.This initiative landmarks the university’s ongoing commitment to delivering innovative, inclusive, and technology-driven higher education within Papua New Guinea.The landmark event was officiated by the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Kinoka Hotune Feo, MP, who joined virtually.He was accompanied by WPU Council Chairman Mr. Edward Sasingian, with the event also featuring keynote remarks by Peter O’Neill, CMG, MP.The launch represents a major step in WPU’s vision of becoming a future-focused university that equips graduates with the digital capabilities, innovation mindset and critical thinking skills required to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.At the centre of the initiative is LearnX, WPU’s integrated AI-powered digital learning ecosystem, combining a Learning Management System, Digital Library and student management platform into a single environment.The platform enables students and staff to access online learning, digital library resources, research databases, assessments, academic support services, and personalized learning experiences anytime and anywhere.Complementing the platform is the rollout of SmartX Digital Learning Tablets.These devices provide students and staff with portable access to course materials, e-books, learning resources, and collaborative tools designed to support flexible learning environments both on campus and remotely.Speaking at the launch, Professor Janet Bulumaris Rangou, President of WPU, described the occasion as a defining moment in the university’s journey towards becoming a digitally enabled institution that remains firmly grounded in PNG’s identity and values.“The launch of our Knowledge Hub represents far more than a physical or digital space,” Professor Rangou said.“It symbolizes our commitment to knowledge creation and sharing, innovation in teaching and learning, and our vision for a university that is globally connected while remaining deeply rooted in our local context, indigenous knowledge, cultures and traditions.”Professor Rangou further noted that WPU’s digital transformation was ultimately about creating opportunities for students and ensuring equitable access to quality education.“These tablets are not just devices- they are bridges to opportunity and symbols of possibility.”“Through our Technology Enhanced Learning agenda, we are reimagining education and preparing our students for a world increasingly shaped by technology.”She emphasized that while WPU is only six years old, it is determined to become a leading centre of innovation, research, and excellence that contributes meaningfully to PNG’s development.“Our future is bright- not because of time, but because of the courage, innovation and unity of our people,” Professor Rangou said, calling for unity across provinces and cultures, and between tradition and technology, as the university continues to build a stronger and more connected nation.The President also acknowledged the university’s strategic partnership with PowerX Technologies Limited, noting that their technical expertise has been instrumental in developing WPU’s AI-enabled digital learning ecosystem.The official ceremony also featured remarks by WPU Council Chairman Mr. Edward Sasingian, who commended the university’s commitment to embracing digital innovation and preparing graduates with the skills required for PNG’s evolving workforce.He highlighted the importance of collaboration between higher education institutions and industry in equipping students with practical knowledge and future-ready competencies.Delivering his address virtually, Minister Feo outlined his vision for a future-ready higher education system, emphasizing that digital transformation must expand access to quality education and prepare graduates for an increasingly technology-driven world.“By 2035, every university student in Papua New Guinea should have access to world-class learning resources, modern digital technologies, quality teaching, and opportunities for innovation regardless of where they live or study,” Minister Feo said.He also stressed that while artificial intelligence presents enormous opportunities for teaching, learning, and research, it must always be guided by human values.“The future we seek is not one where technology replaces people. It is one where technology empowers people.”The Minister commended Western Pacific University for translating the government’s vision for digital transformation into practical action and encouraged other higher education institutions across PNG to pursue similar pathways of innovation.The ceremony concluded with keynote remarks by Peter O’Neill before the official launch of the AI-Enabled Digital Knowledge Hub and the presentation of SmartX Digital Learning Tablets.As Papua New Guinea’s newest public university, Western Pacific University continues to invest in innovative teaching, research and digital infrastructure that expands educational access, strengthens learning outcomes and prepares graduates to lead national development in an increasingly digital world.

Schools in Kiunga, North Fly District, remained closed after violence erupted in the township following the death of a man who was allegedly struck by a drunk driver on Sunday night.School principals and head teachers suspended classes and sent students home as a precaution while authorities worked to restore order.Western Provincial Education Advisor Charlie Buia said the Provincial Education Division had temporarily suspended classes until the security situation could be fully assessed.He said education officials would meet with relevant authorities before deciding when it would be safe for students and teachers to return to school."The safety of our students cannot be guaranteed at this stage, so they have been advised to remain at home. Once a decision is made following our meeting with the relevant authorities, schools, students, and parents will be informed when classes will resume," Mr. Buia said.He urged students to remain indoors and use the time to complete homework, assignments, and revision rather than gathering in public places."We encourage all students to stay at home, continue their studies and avoid roaming around the streets for their own safety," he said.The unrest follows a series of fatal road accidents involving alleged drunk drivers in Kiunga in recent weeks.Three weeks ago, a mother and her child from Kungim village were killed in a suspected drink-driving incident. A week later, another man from Fuma in Nomad, Middle Fly District, was allegedly killed by a drunk driver in a separate incident on Sunday night.Police have confirmed that the drivers involved in both incidents have been arrested and remain in custody while investigations continue.Businesses across Kiunga, including shops, the BSP Bank branch, fuel stations and the town market, remained closed as authorities monitored the situation.However, Kiunga District Hospital and other health facilities continue to operate as normal.Authorities, supported by police and Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel, restored calm in the town after relatives of the deceased allegedly attempted to retaliate against Highlander residents.Security personnel remain on the ground and continue to monitor the situation as normalcy gradually returns to the township.

The Rai Coast District Development Authority (RDDA) successfully launched the district’s first-ever 84 Wards Cooperative initiative during a workshop that was held at the Madang Resort Conference Room, marking a significant milestone in empowering local communities through cooperative development.The historic event was officially launched by Rai Coast MP and Minister for Labour and Employment Kessy Sawang and attended by all 84 Ward Councilors and four Local Level Government (LLG) Presidents from across the district.The workshop commenced with Minister Sawang presenting her vision behind the Ward Cooperative initiative.She outlined the importance of cooperatives as a vital platform for economic empowerment, community participation, and sustainable development at the grassroots level.Following the Minister’s address, Ms. Shirley Hirongopa, the Business Development Coordinator for the Momase Region within the Cooperative Societies Division of the Department of Commerce and Industry, spoke to the attendees.She highlighted the critical role that cooperatives play in driving local economic growth and improving livelihoods within rural communities.The program continued with an in-depth presentation on the Ward Cooperative platform and its legal framework, delivered by Mr. Hubert Namani and his team from Namani Lawyers.Their session provided the councilors with a comprehensive understanding of the legal requirements, governance structures, and operational procedures necessary to successfully establish and manage cooperatives within their respective wards.After the presentations, the four LLG Presidents shared their feedback and perspectives on the proposed cooperative framework.This led into an interactive question-and-answer session, which allowed participants to seek clarification and gain deeper insights into the cooperative model.The highlight of the day was the official launch of the Rai Coast 84 Wards Cooperative initiative by Hon. Kessy Sawang, who described the program as a transformative step toward strengthening community-driven economic development.In her closing remarks during the evening session, Minister Sawang expressed her gratitude to the 84 Ward Councilors, the four LLG Presidents, representatives from the Department of Commerce and Industry, Namani Lawyers, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the workshop.As the first program of its kind in the Rai Coast District, this workshop has equipped ward leaders with a solid understanding of cooperative management and governance.The RDDA remains confident that this foundational initiative will create new opportunities for economic participation, encourage collective ownership of local development projects, and significantly strengthen community-led growth across the region.

The Rai Coast District Development Authority (RDDA) in Madang province, continues to strengthen essential air transport services across the district through its long-standing flight subsidy partnerships with Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) and SIL Aviation.For the past three years, RDDA has provided flight subsidies to MAF while also supporting SIL Aviation to ensure remote communities remain connected to vital government and emergency services.The subsidized flights service key airstrips throughout Rai Coast, including Teptep and Nankina airstrips in Nayudo Local Level Government (LLG), as well as the Nahu and Gumburami areas in Nahu-Rawa LLG.These services provide a critical transport link for communities that are otherwise difficult to access due to the district's rugged terrain and limited road infrastructure.The subsidy plays a significant role in supporting the movement of essential public servants, including teachers, nurses, doctors, and other government officers who deliver vital services to remote communities.It also enables the transportation of cargo, essential supplies, and locally produced cash crops, helping to improve livelihoods and stimulate economic activity within the district.In addition, the partnership with SIL Aviation provides a reliable medical evacuation (medevac) service, allowing critically ill and injured patients to be transported quickly to hospitals for urgent medical treatment.This service has become a lifeline for many remote villages where access to healthcare is limited.RDDA remains committed to improving accessibility and ensuring that the people of Rai Coast, regardless of where they live, have better access to education, healthcare, government services, and economic opportunities.The continued investment in flight subsidies reflects RDDA’s commitment to connecting isolated communities and improving the quality of life for the people of Rai Coast.

Three community sawmills have been delivered to Mata-Garaita, Weam, and Wando in the South Fly District under the PNG–Australia Partnership competitive grants program, aimed at boosting local livelihoods and infrastructure development.The sawmills will help communities produce timber for repairing schools, churches, and health facilities, while also creating income opportunities in remote parts of Western Province.The Western Provincial Administration contributed 7% of the required 10 per cent (%) community funding, with support from Morehead LLG.South Fly MP Sekie Agisa said the project is a long-term investment and encouraged communities to take full ownership and responsibility for its success.“This project is an important investment for the people of Wando, and I encourage the community to take full ownership of the sawmill and manage it well, so it continues to benefit everyone for years to come.”Australian High Commission acting Minister-Counsellor Craig Gillies said the initiative reflects strong collaboration between governments and local communities.“These sawmills are a great example of what happens when we work together, in this case in close collaboration with the Western Provincial Administration, the South Fly District Administration, and local communities.”Local operators will receive training in sawmill operation, maintenance, and safety, with management to be overseen by community committees and ward development officers.This is part of broader efforts to strengthen economic development and resilience in Western Province.

SP Brewery has reinforced its commitment to Morobe Province with the commissioning of a rooftop solar power system and the opening of a new warehouse at its Lae Brewery.The projects, officially launched on Friday, are expected to improve the company's operational efficiency while supporting its long-term sustainability goals and strengthening its presence in Papua New Guinea's industrial hub.Speaking at the event, SP Brewery Managing Director Ed Weggemans said Morobe Province continues to play a vital role in the company's operations."Morobe Province's strategic location has significantly benefited our business over the years," Mr. Weggemans said. "The province is home to our second and largest brewery, and we currently employ 119 staff, many of whom are from Morobe Province and surrounding communities."He said the company remains committed to investing in its workforce through training, skills development and career advancement opportunities to build a capable and empowered local workforce.The rooftop solar installation marks another step in SP Brewery's efforts to reduce its environmental impact as part of its net-zero emissions journey."At SP Brewery, we believe that we will only thrive if the people and the communities around us thrive. That is why we are on a mission to reduce our carbon footprint," Mr. Weggemans said.He said the company aims to progressively replace fossil fuel energy with renewable energy sources.SP Brewery also officially opened a new warehouse facility, which the company says will enhance storage, distribution and sales operations from its Lae brewery.According to Mr. Weggemans, the expanded facility is expected to benefit the wider local economy by improving the company's ability to serve customers across the region."By strengthening our distribution and sales capabilities, we are supporting businesses that rely on our products," he said. "This creates a ripple effect—from local suppliers and transport providers to small businesses and families who benefit from a more vibrant economy."The commissioning ceremony was attended by SP Brewery staff and customers, who witnessed the opening of both the solar power system and the new warehouse facility.

Twenty-one women from across Papua New Guinea have been selected as finalists in the 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women's Awards (WOW Awards), recognising their leadership, innovation and contributions to their communities and industries.The finalists were chosen across seven award categories, representing women whose work is creating positive change in business, the public sector, community organisations, sports, the arts and environmental sustainability.The announcement marks the next stage of the annual awards program ahead of the official awards ceremony, which will be held in Port Moresby on Saturday, July 25. Winners in each category will be announced during the event, along with the Overall 2026 Westpac Outstanding Woman of the Year.This year's finalists are:Entrepreneur: Judy Ejampi, Martha Raka, and Sylvia Pascoe.Private Sector: Orpah Peter, Rita Karaie and Stella Ipang.Not-for-Profit: Naomi Longa, Jacqueline Mary Boga Garoau and Sr. Bolena Azimo.Public Sector: Debra Sungi, Elizabeth Tandoa and Fiona Gesa.Sports and Arts: Edith Monagi, Susanne Sere and Wosi Kaeyo.Sustainability: Deborah Yassa Yulu, Emma Oliver, and Kiteni Kurika.Young Achiever: Getta Kambar, Naomi Dubabagi and Zimmah Neinaka.Westpac PNG Board Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley said the finalists reflect the strength, resilience and leadership of women who are making a difference across the country.She said the awards celebrate women who are helping shape stronger communities, workplaces and industries while inspiring others through their dedication and service.Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low said the awards demonstrate the bank's long-standing commitment to supporting communities throughout the Pacific.She said recognising outstanding women not only celebrates their achievements but also helps create opportunities for future generations.Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the finalists exemplify what can be achieved through determination, talent and a strong sense of purpose.He said their work is helping build stronger communities while contributing to a more inclusive future for Papua New Guinea.Each category winner will receive a K5,000 grant to further support their projects and community initiatives.In the lead-up to the awards night, Westpac PNG will feature profiles of each finalist across its communication platforms, highlighting their achievements and the impact they are making throughout Papua New Guinea.

Fourteen volunteers and their respective supervisors underwent a week-long Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) which was conducted by the National Volunteer Service (NVS) at Okari Campus in Lae, Morobe Province.The training, ran from June 22 to 26, was aimed to equip volunteers with the knowledge, skills, policies and procedures required to effectively serve their communities in the health and education sectors.The orientation serves as a critical induction process, preparing volunteers for deployment, and reinforcing the values of volunteerism, community service, and teamwork.Speaking at the opening of the training, NVS Executive Officer Poponu Wenda urged participants to fully embrace the program and understand the role and responsibilities of theNational Volunteer Service before returning to their respective communities.“Volunteerism is about commitment, sacrifice and service. Volunteers should not work in isolation but must work together as a team to achieve meaningful outcomes for thecommunities they serve,” Mr. Wenda said.He also emphasized the important role supervisors play in ensuring volunteers are effectively supported and monitored while carrying out their duties.“Supervisors are very important in the community. You are the leaders and support system forthese volunteers.""You have a significant responsibility to be present on the ground and monitor the work being carried out,” he said.One of the participants, Community Health Worker Cathy Jim from Malaman Community Health Post in Komba Village, Kabwum District, expressed her appreciation for the orientation.“I am happy to be part of this Pre-Service Orientation. There are many things I need to learn,and I am excited to better understand how NVS operates and what is expected of me as avolunteer,” she said.NVS Societal Responsibility and Partnerships Manager Rodney Uvovo, who is leading the NVS team in Morobe Province, said he was confident the orientation would adequately prepare volunteers for service in their communities.He said the training would ensure volunteers clearly understand their roles and responsibilities and are equipped to contribute effectively to community development initiatives.National Volunteer Service remains committed to supporting the Government’s efforts to improve service delivery in the health and education sectors, particularly in remote and underserved communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

Four female staff of Vanguard International graduated from a leadership program under PNG Tribal Foundation on Wednesday 24th June 2026, here in Port Moresby.A small but significant event for the organization, with the entire staff turning up in numbers to witness the staff attaining certificates for the completion of the 11-week program covering the 11 values through the Senisim PNG Program.Seven others will soon complete the program.They are now certified facilitators who can create their own tables with five to 10 members to facilitate transformation of tables either in their workplace, home, community, church, or anywhere.Mr. Michael Elton, Commercial Manager for Vanguard International, congratulated the staff for taking a step forward in leadership growth for themselves and urged them to be better versions of themselves.“Change starts within us before we go out to change others.”Mr. Elton emphasized the lack of ethical leadership at all levels in the country and said that to change the country in the next 50 years, it starts with individuals.Ms. Anzilla Miro, General Manager for Vanguard International, also stated that an employee with qualifications but without values will put you off the line.“You’re qualified for the office you hold, but if your values are misaligned, you will go off the radar, and that is the reality of life,” she said.She challenged the staff to live by the values of honesty, commitment, integrity, listening, purpose, among others.She said values cannot be borrowed from someone; they live within you.