Community Rugby League (CRL) officers from the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) have completed an intensive coaching education workshop delivered in partnership with the National Rugby League (NRL), reinforcing efforts to build stronger grassroots rugby league programs across the country.The session was conducted at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city and facilitated by NRL Community Lead – Education Development Manager, Ross Antoniolli. Unlike traditional coaching clinics that focus primarily on drills and techniques, this workshop centred on improving facilitation skills and coaching approach. Participants examined practical strategies for delivering structured, inclusive, and engaging sessions that can be adapted to both school and community environments. Mr. Antoniolli said the initiative is aimed at ensuring development officers are equipped not only to run programs, but also to mentor and guide volunteer coaches. “Strong community rugby league programs depend on confident and capable coaches,” he said. “By strengthening how coaching courses are delivered, we create better learning environments for volunteers and ultimately better experiences for players.” He encouraged the CRL team to reflect on their current methods and explore innovative ways to incorporate the new strategies into upcoming clinics and outreach activities. PNGRFL CRL National Game Development Manager Mr. Nigel Hukula said the workshop provided valuable insights into improving consistency and quality across all development programs. “Our officers were reminded that effective sessions require planning, adaptability, and a clear focus on participant needs,” Mr. Hukula said. “Whether working with young students or community groups, sessions must remain safe, enjoyable, and purposeful.” He added that CRL officers continue to work closely with registered associate schools, delivering fundamental rugby league skills programs and pathways for students who wish to further their participation. This season, PNGRFL is broadening its reach to include schools not currently involved in the formal schools’ league competition but interested in structured development programs. Schools across the Northern, Southern, New Guinea Islands, and Highlands regions are encouraged to connect with their regional Game Development Officers for further information.

The Government of Papua New Guinea is actively tracking developments surrounding tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States, with close attention to how the situation may affect international fuel markets and the domestic cost of living.Prime Minister James Marape said, Papua New Guinea remains vigilant as volatility in global oil supply chains has the potential to trigger imported inflation, particularly in fuel and essential goods sourced from overseas. “We are monitoring global developments carefully and responsibly,” the Prime Minister said. “Should fuel prices exceed sustainable levels, or if imported food costs begin placing pressure on families and businesses, the Government stands ready to step in.” He noted that a significant portion of the world’s oil supply moves through critical international shipping routes, and any disruption could quickly drive prices upward across global markets. “Fuel underpins every sector of our economy — from transportation to electricity generation and food distribution,” he said. “If prices rise to extreme levels, we are prepared to introduce targeted subsidies to shield households, businesses and essential services from destabilizing impacts.” Prime Minister Marape emphasised that Papua New Guinea has previously demonstrated its ability to respond decisively to external economic shocks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government implemented temporary support measures to stabilise supply chains and maintain food distribution between key centres, including Lae and Port Moresby. He confirmed that similar targeted interventions — particularly on fuel — would be considered if verified inflationary pressures threaten affordability or broader economic stability. The Prime Minister also reiterated that subsidies on 13 essential household items remain in place to help cushion families from rising living costs. At the same time, he underscored that long-term resilience depends on strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on imports. “In uncertain global conditions, buying local is one of the strongest actions we can take as a country,” he said. “Papua New Guinea has the capacity to feed itself.” He encouraged greater consumption of locally grown staples such as sweet potato, taro, yam, banana, cassava and sago, highlighting their affordability and nutritional value. He also pointed to emerging local rice production in areas including Rigo as a positive step toward reducing import dependence. The Prime Minister added that ongoing improvements in road connectivity between agricultural regions and urban markets are enhancing food distribution and reinforcing national food security. “Our land is fertile and productive,” he said. “Supporting our farmers keeps money within our economy, strengthens rural communities, and protects our nation during global uncertainty.” Prime Minister Marape assured citizens that should global tensions intensify and economic pressures mount, the Government will implement additional measures to safeguard stability and help the country navigate what may become a challenging international economic environment.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has officially reopened Wewak (Boram) Airport following a comprehensive safety and security risk assessment.The temporary closure, which was imposed to address identified risks, was lifted at 4:00 PM on Sunday, 1st March 2026. NAC in a statement confirmed that the decision to resume operations was made after management was satisfied that all safety and security risks had been appropriately addressed. The airport has met all necessary aviation security and aerodrome certification requirements. Recent incidents that led to the airport’s closure have prompted investigations by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). The law enforcement agencies have apprehended suspects in connection with the unlawful activities. Police and PNGDF personnel will continue to patrol the airport perimeter and surrounding areas to ensure the safety of the airport and its operations. The Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), issued on Saturday, 28th February 2026, which had announced the temporary closure, was officially rescinded following the completion of security measures. "Airlines have been informed of the reopening and will conduct their own operational and safety assessments before resuming flights into Wewak," the NAC stated. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines directly for confirmation of flight schedules. NAC has expressed its gratitude to the police, PNGDF, local authorities, airline partners, and the Wewak community for their cooperation and support during the closure.

The situation in Papua New Guinea regarding the transmission of HIV to infants is a profound public health emergency that demands immediate, unified action.Archbishop His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, stated that with seven babies born with HIV every day, the nation faces a direct threat to the core pillars of Vision 2050. Addressing this crisis requires a shift from silence to proactive community engagement and clinical intervention. The statistics surrounding Parent-To-Child Transmission (PTCT) are sobering. “Without treatment, 30 – 45% of exposed infants become infected, and most die within two years.” This loss of life is entirely preventable in the modern medical era. When pregnant mothers have access to proper care, the outlook changes drastically, as effective, early intervention using antiretroviral therapy (ART) can reduce the risk to less than 1%. This disparity highlights that the crisis is not a lack of medicine, but a lack of access, awareness, and the persistence of social stigma. He stated that several systemic and social factors are currently driving the increase in infant infections. Meanwhile, the National Department of Health (NDoH) and its partners have identified that low HIV testing rates at Antenatal clinics in all districts and limited access to antiretroviral therapy are primary hurdles. The high-risk behaviours of the adult population, including multiple sexual partners and unsafe sexual practices, continue to fuel the spread. “To counteract this, there must be a national movement to ensure that pregnant mothers should always consider early compulsory HIV counselling and testing through available district clinics.” Papua New Guinea has a history of successfully managing these risks through collaborative efforts. Between 2003 and 2013, church-led clinical care programs demonstrated that an HIV-free generation is possible. Cardinal Ribat said that Mingende Rural Hospital in Chimbu Province was a success story of Preventing the Parent-To-Child transmission through dedicated community outreach and clinical excellence. “These historical successes provide a roadmap for the current crisis, emphasizing that when churches and government facilities are well-funded and maintained, they become the strongest line of defense for the unborn.” Furthermore, Cardinal Ribat stressed that the government must prioritize the allocation of resources to organizations with the deepest community reach. “A critical step involves a commitment to PNG Christian Leaders Alliance on HIV & AIDS Secretariat to ensure churches HIV services and facilities are improved.” “By investing in these networks, the country can foster consistent community awareness and education on STI’s and HIV that penetrates even the most remote districts.” “We must collectively ensure that fear and shame do not prevent citizens from accessing life-saving treatments that are both free and available.”

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has announced temporary runway restrictions at Kiunga Airport as major upgrade works progress under the Method of Working Plan (MOWP) Stages 5 to 8.NAC said the airside and landside components of the project are about 35 percent complete, with construction activities set to intensify starting today, 1 March 2026. Stages 1 to 4 are expected to be completed soon. As of today, the airport’s 1, 200-metre runway will be reduced to 490 metres during the next phases of works, which are scheduled to run until June 2026. As a result, Regular Public Transport (RPT) services, including Dash 8-100 series aircraft operations, will be suspended for at least four months. Despite the temporary shortening, the aerodrome will remain open to smaller general aviation aircraft. NAC acknowledged the disruption the restrictions will cause to passenger travel and cargo movement in and out of Kiunga but said the upgrade is essential to maintain aviation safety standards and ensure the airport’s long-term reliability. The corporation advised the travelling public, airline operators and the business community to note the key dates and make alternative arrangements where necessary. Work schedules remain subject to weather conditions, and any changes will be communicated. NAC said the runway upgrade represents a critical investment in strengthening aviation infrastructure in Western Province and supporting regional connectivity into the future. The corporation apologized for the inconvenience and thanked stakeholders and the people of Western Province and Papua New Guinea for their patience and cooperation.

The official opening of a new classroom at Ramandu Elementary School in Inland Baining, East New Britain, has marked a historic turning point for a community that has spent over 16 years teaching its children under makeshift shelters.The event, held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Ramandu Zone 1, brought together the Ragaga community alongside representatives from the Rabaul and Gazelle districts to celebrate a new era of safe and conducive learning. Ragaga Ward Member Samson George, highlighted the weight of the achievement, noting that students have long been exposed to harsh weather and illness due to the lack of proper facilities. “For 16 years, our students were taught under temporary shelters exposed to wind and rain. Many children became sick from sitting in dust.” “Today, we finally have a proper classroom that will provide a better teaching and learning environment.” With the infrastructure now in place, Mr. George emphasized that the responsibility shifts to the adults in the community to ensure the building’s purpose is fulfilled. He issued a clear call to action for educators to maintain strict attendance from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. He also issued a stern warning that the Ward Development Committee would monitor families to ensure children are in class rather than working in gardens or cocoa blocks. “Under the Lukautim Pikinini Act, we will ensure our children go to school. Education must come first.” The project was a collaborative effort, driven by the Ramandu Youth Association and supported by K20, 000 in materials from the Rabaul District Administration. This partnership is unique as the school sits within the Rabaul-owned Ramandu Plantation but serves the Gazelle District. Meanwhile, Rabaul Deputy District Administrator for Operations, Petrus Maninga, reinforced the district’s commitment to early childhood development, noting, “Investing in early learning is investing in the future of our communities.” “This partnership shows what can be achieved when districts and communities work together.” Inland Baining Local Level Government (LLG) President Misiel Waliria, also praised the cross-district cooperation and the hands-on involvement of the locals. “We thank Rabaul District for coming right out to Gazelle and supporting this project with K20, 000.” “This support has helped deliver important school infrastructure for our children,” he remarked. The day also served as the launch for the Ramandu Youth Association’s three-year Development Plan. By identifying the classroom as a flagship project, the association intends to use community development as a tool to engage young people positively and steer them away from social challenges.

Tisa Bank has launched a Chinese Yuan Account, a move that has been welcomed and supported by the National Government.Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko has supported the move by TISA Bank to launch the Chinese Yuan Account, applauding it as it further strengthens the relations between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and The People’s Republic of China. The minister in a statement on behalf of the government said it is welcoming news for PNG as this was in line with some of the diplomatic efforts that the department of Foreign Affairs had been undertaking. “Department Secretary Mr. Elias Wohengu and I are both happy to see some of our diplomatic efforts taking footing and happening in PNG,” said the minister. This launching of the account this week makes TISA Bank the first locally owned bank in PNG to offer direct settlement for the currency, making business transactions easier for its customers. Minister Tkatchenko says China is the biggest economic and trade partner and this initiative paves the way to further the relationship with PNG. Meanwhile, the Chinese business community in PNG is also pleased with this service as it will make it more accessible, cheaper and easier for them in terms of procurement and investments.

The Boram Airport in Wewak town, East Sepik province is closed after a major security breach at the terminal that left passengers stranded and the community is despair.The National Airport Corporation (NAC) in a statement issued today says the suspension of operations at Boram Airport is temporary to give time to assess the damages and loss of properties following the recent unlawful security breach and damage to airport infrastructure including airline offices and passenger processing facilities. This temporary closure is a precautionary measure to allow a comprehensive safety and security risk assessment currently underway to be completed without compromise. The assessment includes a full review of perimeter integrity, airside safety, terminal security, and overall compliance with national aviation security and aerodrome certification requirements. The Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Airports Corporation Mr. Dominic Kaumu, says the NAC is working closely with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and local authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and held accountable. “We respectfully call on community leaders, provincial authorities, and law enforcement agencies to support efforts to safeguard airport infrastructure and prevent any recurrence of such incidents,” he said. Meanwhile, Air Niugini has suspended flights to and from Boram Airport after the serious security breach where thieves broke into the airport, ransacked the Air Niugini office, damaged check-in equipment, and stole cargo and other property. Services will remain suspended while authorities investigate, and security systems are restored.Air Niugini CEO Mr. Alan Milne condemned the incident and its impact on passengers and the community.

The Balanataman Local Level Government (LLG) in Rabaul District, East New Britain province, has signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the Provincial NID and Civil Registry Office with the aim of bringing their services to the ward level.The agreement aims to ensure that all citizens within Balanataman LLG are registered under the National Identity program and improve access to government services through verified identity documentation. Witnessing the recent signing at the Balanataman LLG chambers, was the Provincial Community Development Advisor, Paul Kapa, who emphasized on the importance of the program and such partnerships. “This is a great initiative where the government is empowering organizations to assist with the delivery of services.” “They have the expertise and manpower; we just have to resource and support them.” The Community Development Advisor further said that having important documents in place such as birth certificate and NID card gives you a legal sense of identity, access and security. Though there are certain challenges with the program itself, Kapa said that the successful rollout of the program at the LLG needs teamwork from all parties involved. Meanwhile, Provincial Senior Registration Officer Judy Chanel, said that 39% of Balanataman LLG has been covered in 2019 when the team did a mass registration. She stated that data collection and entry, form lodgments, registration and fingerprint collection and birth certificates is done in the province whereas processing of NID cards is done in Port Moresby. “The 61% is still out there which we need to cover in this program, and this is a mammoth task.” “We have challenges such as logistics, lack of financial support, internet link issues, incomplete forms etc., and this sometimes affect our turnaround time.” In addition, she also said that such service agreements and partnership will ease some of the challenges faced and bring service closer to the people at the ward level. On the other hand, President for Balanataman LLG Leonard Maing, who is also the Community Development representative in the Provincial Executive Council, commended the LLG administration for such initiative and urged both parties to work together in rolling out the program and reaching full coverage of the LLG. The same arrangement will also be done with the other three LLGs in Rabaul.

The Rabaul District Administration in the East New Britain province has rolled out some of its major infrastructure projects, both in building and civil, that were approved last year (2025).These impact projects were approved through the District Project Management Team (DPMT) and District Procurement Committee (DPC) meeting. These projects are now progressing well. They are,Rabaul Police Barracks Duplex constructed by 3 Sixty Construction Limited at 60% complete. (K500, 000.00- District Services Improvement Program, DSIP) Kurakakaul Police Duplex constructed by Edge Estate Ltd at 57% complete. (K500, 000.00-DSIP) New Rabaul Clinic Perimeter fencing by Newland Building Construction at 40% complete. (K500, 000.00- DSIP/Infrastructure Development Program, IDP) New Rabaul Clinic Civil Works by Impax Limited at 40% complete. (K500, 000.00-DSIP/IDP) Rabaul High School Perimeter fencing by Tabarangat Metal Fabricators at 95 % complete. (K450, 000.00- DSIP) St Martins 4 in 1 classroom constructed by R & D Office & Building Services at 75% complete. (K400, 000.00-DSIP) Billy Memorial Primary School, Watom Island 4 in 1 classroom constructed by Atlu Civil & Building Construction at 60% complete. (K600,000.00- DSIP/IDP) Sikut-Matupit Health Centre Maintenance by Dunamis Construction Ltd at 100% complete. (K500, 000.00- DSIP) and, Rabaul District Seif Haus by Mazo Construction Ltd which is 99% complete. (K500, 000.00- PSIP/DSIP) Whilst speaking during a recent District Management Meeting, the District Administrator Freddy Lemeki, commended the Rabaul District Project Implementation Unit for identifying priority projects and putting them through the district’s procurement process. “These are important projects especially under the education, health, and law and justice sector.” “There are other approved projects in agriculture, fisheries, lands, civil, commerce and other sectors that are ongoing and their progress is also noted and commended.” He pointed out that projects valued below K500, 000, goes through the 3x vetting processes of the District Management Team, District Project Management Unit and through to the District Project Management Team which he is the Chairman of. Projects with contract value ranging from more than K500, 000 to K5 million goes through the District Procurement Committee for approval. Mr. Lemeki further encouraged the district technical team to ensure project submissions contain all the required documents and that qualified and registered contractors with capacity and good track record are engaged for successful implementation of projects. Meantime, the Acting District Engineer Jude Gigiala, said that last year about six major projects were tendered through the DPC for both civil and building projects. He said that there are already plans in place to conduct two or three more DPC meetings this year to approve other district projects.

The Rabaul Urban Local Level Government (LLG) in East New Britain province, has started enforcing spot fines for people caught chewing betelnut, smoking and littering in public places around Rabaul Town.The Rabaul Urban LLG Environmental Health Officer Josephine Varip, said this action is part of efforts to improve town cleanliness, improve public health and sanitation and engagement of youths to maintain law and order in Rabaul Town. She stated that last year, a number of awareness were conducted to inform people on the increase of spot fine from K20 to K100. There is a total of 21 laws and three of which are spot fines, littering and smoking in public places, are currently being enforced. Ms. Varip stated that in order to further support the program, twenty local youths recently completed an induction training on how to properly implement and enforce Rabaul Urban Laws. “The training helped them to understand Public Health rules, how to carry out enforcement respectfully and how to educate and conduct awareness in the community about keeping public places clean.” She said the program is about helping people change their behavior and take responsibility for their surroundings. “We want people to understand that keeping Rabaul clean is everyone’s duty.” “These laws are there to protect our health and environment. The youths involved will help enforce the rules while also educating the public.” Public areas such as markets, streets and bus stops, will be monitored as enforcement continues. Awareness activities will also be carried out so residents understand the rules and penalties. In addition, the program itself, has collected more than K5, 000 in spot fines in the past month. Meanwhile, among the youths engaged in the program is Nasi Tonga, a former prison inmate who is now taking part in this community service driven program. He said his engagement highlights how the program is also creating opportunities for rehabilitation as well as giving youths a second chance to contribute meaningfully to the community.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape yesterday launched the National Internally Displaced Persons Policy (NIDPP) 2025 2035 in Port Moresby city.The NIDPP provides the framework for a more coordinated support to displaced Papua New Guineans IDPs; those who are returning to their land after displacement as well as host communities who put up land to support displaced people as a result of natural disasters or other such adversities. The NIDPP 2025-2035, was developed in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and United Nations agencies in the country. Prime Minister Marape, in launching the document, expressed his dissatisfaction that it had taken the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government nearly ten years to develop the policy when it was first announced in 2017. “Government instruction came ten years ago, and we're launching this policy ten years late.” He stated this adding that many displaced people such as those under the Manam restoration program (Madang), the Kadovar resettlement program (ESP), the Rabaul resettlement program (ENBP), and the Mulitaka restoration program (Enga), as well as the recent 2 Mile settlers (NCD), need such a policy in place to begin or complete the process so they can rebuild and carry on with their lives. However, the Prime Minister did thank the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (PLLG) along with Minister Soroi Eoe, for eventually developing the first of its kind policy for PNG and the Pacific. “This policy will support and guide the development of legal and administrative frameworks that enable voluntary, safe, and dignified relocation, return, and local integrations of IDPs.” “This landmark policy reflects our government’s dedication to ensuring that IDPs are not only protected but also empowered to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to national development.”