A historic milestone was achieved last Friday May 15, 2026, as the people of Kandrian Gloucester District in West New Britain province, witnessed the official launching of MV Hiruoi, the first and largest vessel ever owned by a District Development Authority (DDA) in the country.The launching ceremony brought together national leaders, provincial executives, district officials, community leaders, and thousands of people from across the five Local Level Governments (LLGs) of Kandrian Gloucester District, including Kaliai Kove, Gasmata, Gloucester, Kandrian Inland, and Kandrian Coastal. The vessel was officially launched by Joseph Lelang, Minister for Rural and Economic Development, and Member for Kandrian Gloucester. Minister Lelang described the acquisition of MV Hiruoi as a long-term vision aimed at transforming the district’s economic future and improving service delivery to its people. Built in 2023 in Sibu, Malaysia, the MV Hiruoi is a 55-meter-long and 14-meter-wide vessel. Globally certified at 644 metric tons, it is capable of servicing international maritime routes, though its immediate priority remains a local development. The ship boasts an impressive capacity to carry up to one million litres of fuel and 60 twenty-foot containers: a scale unmatched by any other DDA in the country. “For too long, our people have struggled because of transportation and accessibility challenges,” said Minister Lelang. “Kandrian Gloucester is not a landlocked district with easy road connections. We are a coastal district, and the solution to our development challenges was not simply building roads, we needed a ship to move development.” The Minister revealed that the investment into securing the vessel took years of careful planning and sacrifice, especially during periods when funding support was limited while serving in Opposition. “I had a vision and a dream that one day our district would own a vessel. It took years of saving and planning to secure K7.6 million to purchase this ship for our people.” Although the vessel arrived in PNG from Malaysia in August last year, operations were delayed due to extensive compliance requirements from the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA). Minister Lelang emphasized that while the vessel is internationally certified as a 644-metric-ton vessel capable of servicing international maritime routes, priority has been placed on serving the people of PNG, particularly the people of Kandrian Gloucester District. The vessel’s maiden operations will focus on transporting copra and cocoa from Gasmata LLG through Kandoka to Kimbe, allowing local farmers and producers to access markets more efficiently. He confirmed that no freight charges will be imposed on the people of Kandrian Gloucester during the initial voyages. Upon its return, the vessel will transport machinery and heavy equipment to support the long-awaited Gasmata Ring Road Project and other major district infrastructure developments. Meanwhile, Governor of West New Britain Sasindran Muthuvel, praised the initiative and described MV Hiruoi as a game-changing investment for both Kandrian Gloucester and the province. “This vessel will strengthen the economy of Kandrian Gloucester and West New Britain by helping local farmers transport their cocoa and copra products to markets in Kimbe and beyond,” Governor Muthuvel said. The Governor also acknowledged the presence of Beldan Namah, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture and Member for Vanimo-Green, and noted that the launch could open doors for tourism development in the district. “Kandrian Gloucester is blessed with beautiful coastlines, culture, and tourism potential. This vessel can help unlock tourism opportunities and attract visitors and investors into the district,” he added. Minister Namah, who officially cut the ribbon, congratulated Minister Lelang for his foresight and determination. “God has blessed Minister Lelang with wisdom, and that wisdom has guided him toward this achievement,” Minister Namah stated. “This vessel has huge potential not only for transportation and trade but also for tourism development.” He urged local communities to maintain cleanliness, improve law and order, and work together to create a welcoming environment for future tourism investment. “With this vessel, local produce can now be transported in bulk. Development in Kandrian Gloucester will no longer come slowly, it will come in waves.” Minister Namah, accompanied by Minister Lelang, Governor Muthuvel, and invited delegates, were escorted onto the vessel where he was given the privilege of cutting the ribbon and officially launching MV Hiruoi. People from all corners of Kandrian Gloucester District gathered to witness the historic occasion, marking what many described as one of the district’s greatest milestones since PNG’s Independence. Also present was Chief Executive Officer of the Kandrian Gloucester District Development Authority (KGDDA) Dr. Steven Yennie, who described MV Hiruoi as a “beacon of change” for the district and the KGDDA administration. “This vessel will make the work of the KGDDA much easier. With many planned and long-awaited projects ahead of us, we are now ready to move forward aggressively and ensure development reaches our people,” Dr. Yennie said. He pledged to work closely with the presidents of the district’s five LLGs to address the concerns and development needs of local communities with urgency and efficiency. “Our people deserve visible change, and with the support of this vessel, we are now in a stronger position to deliver that change.” Dr. Yennie also extended his gratitude to former KGDDA board members, former CEOs, and past district leaders who contributed to the vision and eventual purchase of the vessel. He expressed how humble he was to be part of the historic launching and assured the people of Kandrian Gloucester that the district administration would work tirelessly to ensure that projects and services are delivered effectively and without delay.

Prime Minister James Marape has invited leading French investors and companies to look at doing business in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The prime minister is currently in France on his official trip and has invited leading French investors, financiers, infrastructure companies, and technology firms to partner PNG as the country enters a new era of economic growth driven by energy, infrastructure, industrial development, and regional connectivity. Prime Minister Marape made the call during a high-level meeting hosted by MEDEF International in Paris as part of his official visit to France. The meeting brought together representatives of major French companies and investors operating across the energy, finance, infrastructure, utilities, telecommunications, aviation logistics, healthcare, and industrial sectors. Companies represented included Global Sovereign Advisory, Matière, Veolia, BPCE, Flying Whales and international telecommunications company iBASIS. Prime Minister Marape said PNG, now celebrating its 50th anniversary of Independence, was positioning itself for the next phase of national economic transformation and international partnerships. “The next 20 years for Papua New Guinea will be about building roads, roads, roads and bridges,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We have major rivers, difficult terrain, and enormous infrastructure needs. We are open to innovative financing and strong private-sector partnerships.” The Prime Minister said Papua New Guinea was returning to a balanced budget next year for the first time since 2010, positioning the country for stronger investor confidence and disciplined long-term economic management.

The command of the Upper Highlands Special Operations has moved to clarify reports circulating on social media regarding an alleged incident involving police operations in the Western Highlands and other parts of the Highlands region.Assistant Commissioner of Police and Commander of Upper Highlands Special Operations Anthony Wagambie Jnr confirmed that initial checks were conducted in consultation with the Western Highlands Provincial Police Command and the Highlands Eastern End divisional command to verify the claims. ACP Wagambie said early assessments indicate that vehicles allegedly linked to the reported incident in Mt Hagen do not match any official vehicles assigned to the Upper Highlands Special Operations fleet. He said all operational movements under the command are strictly task-based and closely monitored. “All vehicle and personnel movements are task-oriented and monitored, and the vehicle descriptions provided do not match any vehicle in our fleet that may have been in Mt Hagen,” he said. He rejected claims of misconduct, stating that such behavior is not associated with disciplined forces operations. “Such behaviour is unbecoming, and no one in law enforcement is involved in or condones such acts.” He also stated that the Western Highlands Provincial Police Command, led by Chief Superintendent John Sagom, has been tasked to investigate the matter thoroughly and identify those responsible. “The PPC WHP has been asked to have his team investigate this quickly and thoroughly, identify the culprits, and deal with them. We are ready to assist if required.” ACP Wagambie also noted that intelligence had been received suggesting possible misinformation campaigns targeting special police operations in the Highlands region. He further stated that investigations are ongoing to determine whether the incident involves members of the disciplined forces or criminal impersonators. “Mt Hagen Police are investigating to determine whether members of the disciplined forces were involved, or whether this was the work of criminal impersonators acting with ulterior motives.” Meanwhile, police in Western Highlands continue to perform effectively under the leadership of Chief Superintendent John Sagom and maintain strong community cooperation. ACP Wagambie said police will continue to work with the provincial commands to establish facts and ensure those responsible are identified and dealt with under the law. Investigations are currently ongoing.

The Student Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Goroka (UOG) in Eastern Highlands province, has called on the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) and the Department of Education to reconsider the implementation of the new 2.8 Grade Point Average (GPA) requirement for teacher trainees.The Council argues that the policy has unfairly affected many students already enrolled in teacher-training institutions. In a recent media statement, SRC President Justin Muna stated that the newly introduced policy has resulted in uncertainty for many student teachers, particularly those in their second, third, and final years of study who entered the system under different requirements. The SRC expressed concern that there was no adequate nationwide awareness, consultation, or formal circular issued before the policy was enforced. President Muna stressed that students and their families have made significant financial and personal sacrifices with the expectation that they would graduate and serve as professional teachers in the country. He alongside the council, argued that policies of such significance should be implemented with transparency and proper transitional arrangements to protect students who were already enrolled before the new requirements took effect. In addition, the SRC has urged authorities to provide fair consideration to affected students and to ensure future policy changes are communicated early including at the secondary school level, so students can make informed decisions before entering teacher-training institutions. Furthermore, the SRC stands in solidarity with teacher trainees across the country and has called for a solution that safeguards the future of aspiring educators in Papua New Guinea.

Nurses in East New Britain Province (ENBP) joined others around the world, earmarking the International Nurses’ Day on Friday May 15, 2026, under the global theme: “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives.”Celebrations were held across the province at Rabaul Provincial Hospital, Warangoi Rural Hospital, Pomio District Hospital, and Butuwin Urban Clinic. The day served to advocate for the profession, recognizing the evolution of nursing from its modern birth in 1854, through the 20th century and into the present day. Despite the daily challenges encountered in patient care, East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Ako Yap noted that nurses across all 32 health facilities in the province continue to perform their duties diligently. “Congratulations to all our nurses in ENBP on your celebrations on the International Nurses Day.” “You are and will always be the backbone and eyes of the health services in the province, country and beyond.” “We admire your professionalism, compassion, dedication and commitment to serve our community, especially at our rural and hard to reach communities.” Dr. Yap went on acknowledging the sacrifices the nurses do by showing gratitude for their resilience and compassion in patient care. “Your persistence, perseverance and patience during disasters, both natural and man-made, have always been acknowledged and commendable.” During the celebrations at Rabaul Provincial Hospital, both male and female nurses participated in a showcase of the different colored scrubs worn in their specific lines of work. This display highlighted the historical evolution of the nurse’s uniform, which has transitioned from formal dresses and caps into more practical, hygienic, and comfortable modern medical scrubs. Meanwhile, Deputy Director Clinical Nursing Sister Felicitas Vovo, who led the celebrations, emphasized that nurses work three shifts a day, requiring a tremendous team effort. “Despite less manpower attending to so many patients in the emergency and accidents (A&E), operating theatre, surgical, medical, labour and maternity, the nurses show commitment.” At Warangoi Rural Hospital, Sister Dessie Ririmut highlighted the critical need to support the profession by establishing fair, safe, and empowered working environments. “It is a day to recognize the tireless, often invisible work of nurses, the true backbone of our health system.” “Nursing is not a profession but a vital, often lifesaving calling that requires our full adequate staffing, proper resources and fair compensation.” Meanwhile, at the Butuwin Urban Clinic, other clinicians joined the nursing staff to promote and celebrate the many vital deeds nurses perform. Officer in Charge (OIC) and Health Extension Officer (HEO), Irene Pukai, strongly affirmed the high demand for nursing services. “Nursing services is crucial in-patient care, health promotion and clinical management where they have responsibilities in assessing patients, administering patients as well as educate patients.” Pukai added that it is vital for patients to understand just how demanding the nursing role is, spanning everything from hands-on clinical care to healthcare administration. Currently, the ENBPHA employs approximately 1, 200 health workers across its various facilities, with nursing officers making up the vast majority of these clinical personnel.

The Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) has completed its report following the aftermath of the recent Maila Cyclone disaster, highlighting several areas to improve the Provincial Health Authority’s (PHA) Rapid Response Team (RRT).To strengthen the province’s existing disease surveillance, the World Health Organisation (WHO) deployed two GOARN officers to the region. Dr. Tambri Housen, an experienced field epidemiologist with a strong track record in applied public health and operational research, alongside Dr. James Flint, an expert in field epidemiology and emergency response with substantial experience supporting rapid response teams, focused their efforts on four priority areas including, surveillance system strengthening, data management and analysis, outbreak investigation support, and RRT mentoring. In response to identified gaps in post-cyclone disease surveillance and rapid response capacity, Incident Manager Dr. Simberi Jojoga, noted that joint teams from the PHA and GOARN conducted field visits to the Rabaul Town Clinic, Livuan Day Clinic, Napapar Health Centre, and Raunsepna Health Centre. “Officers in Charge (OIC) of each facility, consistently have identified high reporting burdens and a need for feedback on data they submit.” “Further, discussions with the surveillance team identified the provincial RRT as not yet functioning as a multi-disciplinary team, and district-level rapid response capacity as a key gap.” To address these challenges, Dr. Jojoga explained that plans are underway to conduct phase three training with the East New Britain provincial multidisciplinary RRT in August this year, which will be followed by district-focused training and a one-day simulation exercise. “The strengthening of the province’s capacity is to detect, verify, and respond to public health threats in the recovery period.” The response teams also held discussions with the Child Nutrition and Social Protection (CNSP) team regarding the integration of Village Health Assistants (VHA) into the syndromic surveillance system to help detect epidemic-prone diseases at the community level. This integration has been identified as a priority action for the post-deployment period, which will require formalizing VHA roles and conducting sensitization training.

The Department of Works and Highways has achieved a historic milestone for Papua New Guinea, through the Connect PNG Program, as it continues to deliver.Recently over the weekend, Morobe and Gulf Provinces were officially linked via the Trans National Highway, as the Northern and Southern Corridors were connected, completing what many said would never happen. For decades, communities from Morobe and Gulf provinces lived as neighbors separated by mountains, rivers, and thick uncharted forests until the recent milestone road service, removing that barrier. According to the Department of Works and Highways as stated in a media release, this road project and achievement does matter to PNG. National Unity Through Connectivity: CONNECT PNG is not just about bitumen and gravel. It’s about linking people, markets, schools, and health services. When roads reach, opportunity follows. Economic Lifeline for Rural PNG: Farmers in Gulf can now move produce to Morobe markets. Businesses can cut transport costs and time. This is how we grow the real economy outside Port Moresby and Lae. Breaking the “Unachievable” Myth: What was once written off as too rugged, too costly, too remote is now open. CONNECT PNG proves that with commitment and engineering, PNG can build the backbone it needs for the next 50 years. Nation-Building in Action*: This link shows what coordinated government work looks like. The Morobe and Gulf teams met in the middle because the goal was bigger than any province. However, the Department of Works and Highways say while this is a landmark achievement, the road is not yet open for public use. It is strictly to be used by Works and Highways staff and authorized contractors only, as gravelling works and mountain track upgrades are still in progress. Some sections of the road are steep, narrow, and only suitable for two-wheelers and heavy equipment only. DoWH is urging all the public as well as public motor vehicles and other vehicle owners to refrain from using this route, until an official public opening notice is issued by the Department. Using the road prematurely risks accidents, vehicle damage, and delays to the final works. Moreover, DoWH emphasized in their statement that CONNECT PNG is about turning isolation into connection, and connection into prosperity. The opening of these corridors is proof that the program is moving from vision to reality on the ground. Once the final works are complete and the Department gives the all-clear, this highway will unlock trade, tourism, and social links for thousands of Papua New Guineans.

Three proud Papua New Guinean navy sailors successfully completed their training at a prestigious Australian Naval School, marking yet another milestone in defence relations.Three Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel successfully completed training recently at the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Recruit School in Australia, marking another milestone in the growing defence partnership between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia. PNGDF Privates Millis Kaos, Jamal Kime and Allan Aihi graduated in March from HMAS Cerberus, Victoria after a rigorous 10-week course. Having already completed their initial training with the PNGDF, the three privates were well-prepared and often took on informal leadership and mentoring roles among their Australian peers. The soldiers described the experience as both challenging and rewarding, highlighting the opportunity to train alongside Australian counterparts while proudly representing PNG. Although time away from family and home was a challenge, the PNGDF members said the experience strengthened their resilience and leadership. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to complete this training in Australia,” said Private Jamal Kime. “I enjoyed sharing my culture and experiencing Australian culture and way of life. It was wonderful to play a part in strengthening the ties between Papua New Guinea and Australia.” Commanding Officer of the Royal Australian Navy Recruit School, Commander Martin Holzberger, acknowledged the positive impact of PNGDF personnel. “Recruit School has been privileged to have Papua New Guinea Defence Force members join us,” said Commander Holzberger. “Their perspectives, professionalism and willingness to learn add value to their classmates and the wider Recruit School.” Since the program began in January 2024, a total of 39 PNGDF personnel have graduated from the Royal Australian Navy Recruit School. The program highlights the strong defence partnership between PNG and Australia, enhancing cooperation, capability and interoperability between the two nations.

The prime minister has issued out a stern warning that the ongoing independent review into the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) must be allowed to proceed to its full completion and not disturbed.He issued this warning to members of the PNGDF and the General Public, telling them to remain patient and allow the ongoing Independent Review into PNGDF Recruitment and related processes to reach its full conclusion. Speaking at a Press Conference on Monday at Melanesian Haus in Port Moresby city, Prime Minister Marape confirmed that the Review process had significantly progressed and was nearing completion. “The Investigation is running as we speak. Just because there is silence from us does not mean no work is taking place,” Prime Minister Marape stated. The Prime Minister said the Review, being undertaken independently with the involvement of senior Papua New Guinean officials and an Australian Defence Force representative, was examining broader Structural and Recruitment-related issues within the Defence Force. “Our Team is looking not just at one area, but the entire architecture concerning Defence Recruitment,” he said. Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that Preliminary Findings had identified certain discrepancies; however, he stressed that no Final Conclusions had yet been reached. “At this point in time, I am not able to disclose exactly the Findings, but there are indications of some discrepancies established,” he stated. “I ask everyone to hold their horses until the full Investigation is completed,” the prime minister stressed.

Rangeview is celebrating its 5th birthday this June with a massive joint celebration for Rangeview Heights Limited, Rangeview Plaza, and Rangeview Estate.The festivities kick off in May and run through the end of June, featuring a major shopping promotion. To enter, customers just need to spend K150 or more at any Rangeview Plaza outlet, write their details on the back of the receipt, and drop it in the entry bin. Formed in 2011 and opened in 2021, parent company Rangeview Heights Limited is owned by Nambawan Super Limited, NCDC, and Lamana Development. Its flagship retail hub, Rangeview Plaza, has become Port Moresby’s premier shopping destination, offering a supermarket, a diverse food court, free undercover parking, and numerous local SME craft stalls. Over the past year, the plaza has established itself as a vibrant community hub, hosting major events like PNG Independence celebrations, Kids Fun Days, community fitness classes, and the Culture Cuisine food fair. The celebrations will culminate in a massive public event on June 27, featuring live entertainment and the grand prize draws. General Manager Frank Calubaquib says there will be plenty of prizes and celebrations in store for all our shoppers. “We are celebrating our 5th birthday as a group. Rangeview Heights Limited, Rangeview Plaza and Rangeview Estate. The promotion starts in May till the end of June, and we’ll be giving away some major prizes, including a Perodua vehicle. Shoppers can spend up to K150 or more at any of the shops at Rangeview Plaza, write their names on the back of the receipt, and drop it into the entry barrel to win the vehicle or some of our other great prizes.” “We will be having one of PNG’s top artists performing, plus dancing and lots of celebration including the giving away of the vehicle and other great prizes.” “So, make sure you shop at Rangeview Plaza to give yourself every chance to win these great prizes.”

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has partnered with local communities to combat tuberculosis (TB), a critical health crisis in Western Province, by launching an educational awareness campaign at Wangbin Village.Aligned with the 2026 World TB Day theme, “Yes! We can End TB! Led by countries, Powered by people,” the initiative focuses on dispelling misconceptions, promoting early testing, and ensuring treatment completion. During the program, Ok Tedi Health Services Manager Raymond Singamis highlighted the urgency of the region's health burden. “Western Province is a recognised ‘hotspot’ for TB and multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). Frequently ranking within the top 2-3 provinces for total TB cases and the situation in North Fly is particularly concerning,” Mr. Singamis said. “North Fly District alone has 1,018 confirmed TB patients, while the remaining districts each have more than 500 cases. These numbers are a clear warning, TB is here, and it affects our families.” He stressed that financial barriers should not prevent residents from seeking help, adding, “With Ok Tedi providing free medical checks, diagnosis, and medication, there is no excuse for delayed treatment. If you have been coughing for a long time, feeling weak, losing weight or experiencing night sweats, they must go to the hospital immediately. TB spreads silently within households if left untreated.” The initiative received strong endorsement from community leaders, including the President of the Women and Children Association, Alice Mumuyong, who shared her personal experience. “As a mother with a child currently undergoing TB treatment, I have witnessed firsthand the critical role Ok Tedi Health Services plays in our lives,” Mrs. Mumuyong said. “Their support gives families hope and a real chance at recovery. On behalf of the Women and Children Association, we sincerely acknowledge and appreciate this commitment.” To expand the TB campaign's reach, she announced that her association has allocated independent funding to take the message directly to local neighborhoods. “We have set aside funds to partner with the Ok Tedi Health Services team to take TB awareness directly to our communities. TB is not something to hide or fear, it is something we must confront together,” she said, while reinforcing the need for proactive screening, “I strongly encourage everyone, men, women, and children to go and get checked. Early testing saves lives and protects your family.” Moving forward, Ok Tedi remains dedicated to collaborating with health authorities and local stakeholders to strengthen TB detection and treatment across Western Province.

Misima Minerals Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi), demonstrated its commitment to building local partnerships by delivering vital food supplies, including rice, noodles, coffee, sugar, and tinned goods, to the Misima Papua New Guinea Correctional Services (PNGCS) facility.Ok Tedi Community Relations and Sustainability Superintendent Mr. Joshua Dimel acknowledged the professionalism of the local team and emphasized the importance of industry-government collaboration. “The assistance provided by CS officers and inmates was prompt and invaluable,” said Mr. Dimel. “This contribution is a small but sincere gesture of appreciation, and it reflects our commitment to maintaining respectful and mutually beneficial partnerships wherever we operate.” He added that the company plans to foster the same trust and respect in Misima that Ok Tedi has long shared with the Ningerum CS in Western Province. Misima Jail Commander Barry Kakeni welcomed the donation, which will support the daily needs of the facility and its inmates. “We are grateful for this support from Misima Minerals and Ok Tedi,” Commander Kakeni noted. “This gesture strengthens our relationship and demonstrates the value of cooperation between the private sector and government institutions. We look forward to continued collaboration.” This initiative reflects the shared responsibility of corporate and public institutions in driving social stability, aligning with Ok Tedi’s broader dedication to sustainability and long-term stakeholder partnerships across Papua New Guinea.