The Papuan Compound (PC) Ravens have announced their return to the national rugby sevens stage in emphatic fashion, winning the 2026, 9th Papua Open Rugby Sevens without conceding a single point throughout the tournament.The Lae-based outfit completed a remarkable two-day campaign on Saturday with a commanding 20-0 victory over Highlanders Spartans in the grand final in Jayapura, Indonesia.It was a tournament of defensive dominance for the Ravens, who scored 186 points across their five matches while keeping every opponent scoreless. The victory completes a remarkable turnaround for the Ravens, who returned to the PNG rugby sevens scene in 2025 after a year away from competition.They immediately made their presence felt, reaching the 2025 Firelight Sevens Cup final and finishing runners-up. The Ravens then reached another Cup final at the 2026 SportsTok Sevens, where they finished runners-up to a Fijian side.With the Papua Open Cup now secured, the Ravens return to Vanimo before heading back to Lae, where preparations will begin to defend their Rosso Trans Highway Sevens title in September.

The Joint Consultation Report, Melanesian Framework and the Bougainville Referendum Results will be tabled in the National Parliament later this month.This consensus was reached recently when the Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) endorsed the Melanesian Framework and the Joint Consultation Report (JCR) during the meeting held at the Melanesian Haus in Port Moresby, co-chaired by Prime Minister James Marape and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama. The Melanesian Framework and the Joint Consultation Report were jointly developed by the ABG and the National Government in accordance with the resolutions of the Melanesian Agreement signed by both governments on 26 June 2025. Together, the two documents provide an agreed pathway for progressing Bougainville's political future through a peaceful, stable and Melanesian-led process that is consistent with the Constitution of Papua New Guinea (PNG) while continuing an enduring relationship between PNG and an independent Bougainville. Addressing the Joint Supervisory Body, President Toroama described the Joint Consultation Report as the culmination of years of engagement between the two governments."The Joint Consultation Report is a record of facts and an account of everything we have consulted over since the 2019 Referendum, culminating in the defining Melanesian Agreement. They capture jointly-agreed resolutions of both our governments." In its resolutions, the JSB endorsed the Melanesian Framework as the agreed pathway jointly designed by the two governments to give effect to an affirmative decision by the National Parliament should it endorse the Bougainville Referendum Results. The meeting resolved that the Bougainville Referendum Results, together with the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework, will be tabled in the National Parliament on 27 August 2026 for Parliament's consideration. The Prime Minister and the President will jointly determine the date on which Parliament will consider the question arising from the Referendum Results. The JSB also directed the Independent Facilitator and the Joint Technical Team, supported by the Joint Ministers, to conduct awareness for Members of the National Parliament on both the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework before the matter is debated. President Toroama said the two documents now provide the agreed roadmap for the next phase of the peace process."Combined with the Melanesian Framework, this is the institutional pathway to Bougainville's self-government and ultimately, to full sovereignty. This pathway reflects Bougainville's Final Position on our timeline for self-government and for political independence," he said.  The Joint Consultation Report, Melanesian Framework and the Referendum Results will be tabled in the National Parliament by the National Minister for Bougainville Affairs.

A total of 11 staff from Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL) graduated from a value-based leadership program on Friday 07th August 2026.Another corporate partnership between Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL) and PNG Tribal Foundation, through the Senisim PNG Program, saw a small but significant event with members from the Customer Service and Human Resources Departments graduating and now certified as Transformation Table Facilitators.GT Bustin, President of PNG Tribal Foundation, said the country will only change when citizens take ownership of their actions and change their mindsets.“We have hope for this country to change soon, just like the value of hope you’ve learnt during your 11-weeks journey through the program.“We have so many natural resources like forests, minerals, gas and oil, tuna, mountains and rivers, but we have bad leadership,” Mr. Bustin said. "If we change our mindsets and change the way we do things with having good values, the country will change."Mr. Bustin encouraged the staff to form Transformation Tables in their respective communities, associations, churches, sporting groups, homes, and even at the workplace to continue spreading good values and the servant leadership program.He thanked MVIL for its commitment and efforts in working with the Senisim PNG team through the program.Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited Executive Manager for the Customer Service Department, Avi Hubert, congratulated the staff and encouraged them to put what they had learnt into practice and share the knowledge with others.“It’s not something that you acquire and it stays with you. You have to put it into practice and share it. Through life’s journey, you have to modify yourself and enhance the things you have learnt,” Mr. Hubert said.He wants to see more of his staff taking the lead in the program.The Senisim PNG Program is a value-based program under PNG Tribal Foundation, in partnership with Maxwell Leadership Foundation. It started in 2022 and has reached over 10,000 people across PNG.It is a free program, and any interested groups or individuals can be part of the National Transformation Program.

Professor Nicole Haley has been officially welcomed into the Papua New Guinea public sector by the Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu after her appointment as the new Electoral Commissioner.Professor Harley officially assumed her role on Thursday August 6, 2026, following a formal ceremony at Government House in Port Moresby city. The proceedings included the signing of her Contract of Employment and her swearing-in by the Governor General of Papua New Guinea, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae.Following the ceremony at Government House, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika administered the Declaration of Oath of Office and Secrecy at the Waigani Court Complex.This declaration marks the final legal requirement for Professor Harley to take office, ensuring full compliance with the Employment of Non-Citizens Act.Pomaleu expressed his absolute confidence in Professor Haley’s leadership and expertise. He emphasized that her primary mandate will be the strategic planning and successful execution of the 2027 National General Elections.“I am looking forward to Professor Haley taking the Office and providing leadership to the Electoral Commission,” Mr. Pomaleu stated.“She will take charge in running the 2027 National General Elections, while also addressing residual activities such as conducting failed elections in various Local-level Governments across the country.”The Chief Secretary further highlighted that the Commissioner’s responsibilities extend beyond election cycles to include critical administrative and structural reforms. “There is a wider role for the Electoral Commissioner which includes correcting any misalignment during the redistricting of electorates as a result of the last electoral boundaries report,” Mr. Pomaleu added.To ensure the success of these initiatives, Mr. Pomaleu assured Professor Harley of the National Government's full support through the Inter-Department Election Committee, which he co-chairs alongside the Electoral Commission.The Chief Secretary reaffirmed the National Government’s steadfast commitment to protecting the integrity, independence, and credibility of Papua New Guinea’s electoral system.He emphasized that the government’s dedication to ensuring the Electoral Commission remains fully operational and capable of implementing its core functions for the ultimate benefit of the nation.

The ongoing dry weather conditions brought about by the El Nino is no obstacle to Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi), as the mine continues to operate safely and remains focused on maintaining production in the Western province.The company is closely monitoring the impacts of El Nino on the Fly River. While river levels are currently low and parts of the river are not being utilised for normal freight movements, Ok Tedi is proactively sourcing alternative logistics arrangements to ensure the continued supply of fuel, critical consumables, equipment, and other operational requirements to site.“As part of our business continuity planning, Ok Tedi has been actively managing the impacts of the dry conditions through a range of mitigation measures, including the use of alternative supply routes and careful management of key resources,’’ said Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit.“At present, mining and processing operations continue, and the company remains focused on delivering its operational objectives safely and responsibly. While the current conditions present additional logistical challenges, Ok Tedi has contingency plans in place and continues to adapt its operations as required.Like many businesses operating in PNG, Ok Tedi is experiencing some increased costs associated with managing the impacts of the dry weather, particularly in the area of logistics and supply chain management. However, the company is taking prudent measures to manage these impacts and maintain operational resilience.Ok Tedi continues to monitor weather patterns, river conditions and supply chain risks closely. The safety of our employees, contractors and communities remains our highest priority, while ensuring the ongoing reliability of our operations."While the current dry weather conditions require us to be agile and proactive, it is business as usual at Ok Tedi. We anticipated the potential impacts and have activated contingency measures to support our operations. Our teams continue to do an excellent job managing the situation, and we remain focused on safely delivering our operational commitments.

Education Minister Francis Kikin Siune has condemned the recent outbreak of violence involving secondary school students in the National Capital District (NCD), warning that schools must remain as places of learning and not centres of criminal behaviour.His comments follow a violent confrontation involving students from two secondary schools that caused public concern, damaged property and disrupted public order.Minister Siune threw his full support behind the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's decision to arrest and charge students involved in the violence."Schools are for learning, not fighting. No student is above the law," he said.The Minister commended NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab and police for taking a firm stance against student violence."I fully support Superintendent Warrick Simatab and the NCD Police in treating violent students as criminals," he said. "When a student commits assault, destroys property or acts violently, police action is essential. Being a student is not an excuse to escape the law."Minister Siune said the National Department of Education, led by Secretary Dr Uke Kombra, fully supports the police response and will continue working with schools to strengthen discipline and student engagement.He said school boards, principals and administrations have been directed to take swift disciplinary action against students involved in violence, including suspension or permanent expulsion where necessary."School administrations that fail to enforce strict discipline will also be held accountable," he said.The Minister also appealed directly to students to prioritise their education and avoid being influenced by peer pressure, social media or unnecessary conflict."Your parents sacrifice so much for your future. Don't ruin your life over peer pressure, social media or foolish pride," he said. "Choose education over violence and respect over conflict. Your future is worth more than a senseless fight."Minister Siune said while the Government continues to invest in initiatives such as free education and standards-based learning, maintaining discipline in schools requires the combined efforts of parents, schools, churches and communities.He highlighted the Department's implementation of Christian and Citizenship Values Education (CCVE) from Early Childhood Education as part of efforts to instil moral values and responsible citizenship from an early age.The Minister reassured parents, students and the wider public that the Department of Education, together with police and school administrations, would continue to enforce a zero-tolerance approach to school violence to ensure schools remain safe, orderly and conducive to learning.

Prime Minister James Marape has strongly condemned an armed ambush on Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Steven Harris and his team, describing the incident as a direct attack on the rule of law and the authority of the State.Chief Superintendent Harris was travelling in a police convoy near Yaltep, just before the Sirunki Strawberry Farm, to arrest suspects tied to an ongoing murder investigation when gunmen opened fire without warning.Three police reservists accompanying Harris immediately shielded him from the gunfire, returned fire, and helped secure the area.Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel who heard the shooting swiftly responded to support the team, allowing the police commander to safely continue his journey.Prime Minister Marape commended Harris, the reservists, and the PNGDF personnel for their bravery and discipline under extreme danger.“This was a cowardly and calculated attack on a senior police officer who was carrying out his constitutional duty to uphold the law and protect the people of Enga,” Prime Minister Marape said.“I strongly condemn this ambush. An attack on our police personnel is an attack on the State, the rule of law and every law-abiding citizen who wants to live in peace.”“I commend Chief Superintendent Steven Harris for remaining calm and focused under fire. I also pay special tribute to the three police reservists who placed themselves between their commander and the gunfire.”“Their courage, loyalty and quick response helped protect lives and demonstrated the highest traditions of service.”“I also thank the PNG Defence Force personnel who responded to the sound of gunfire and helped secure the area.”“This cooperation between our police and defence personnel is vital as we restore peace, security and respect for the law in Enga.”Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Government will not allow armed criminals to intimidate public servants, police, or local communities, warning that the full force of the law will be brought against those responsible, as well as anyone providing them with assistance, shelter, or weapons.“The criminals responsible must understand that they cannot hide forever,” he said. “I call on community leaders, churches, councilors and ordinary citizens in the area to cooperate with police and provide information that will lead to the identification and arrest of the gunmen.”“Anyone protecting these criminals is helping to prolong violence and suffering in Enga.”Reflecting on the ongoing risks frontline personnel face, the Prime Minister noted that police officers, reservists, and PNGDF members put their lives on the line daily to protect communities across Papua New Guinea.He reaffirmed the Government’s pledge to strengthen law enforcement operations and support long-term peacebuilding efforts.“These men and women leave their families and place themselves in danger to protect our communities.”“They deserve the support, respect and cooperation of every Papua New Guinean.”“The Government remains committed to strengthening police operations, restoring law and order and supporting long-term peacebuilding in Enga.”“We will not surrender any part of Papua New Guinea to criminals, tribal fighters or those who believe the barrel of a gun places them above the law.”Addressing citizens directly, particularly those in Maramuni, Marape urged people to use lawful channels to air grievances rather than turning to violence, pointing out that two wrongs do not make a right.“I want to remind the people of Maramuni, and indeed all Papua New Guineans, that if you have legitimate concerns or grievances, there is no need to resort to lawlessness to have your voices heard,” Prime Minister Marape urged.“If your concerns are not being addressed at the district or provincial level, raise them again through the proper channels.”“If necessary, submit your petitions or letters to the Enga Provincial Government and to the National Government in Port Moresby. Someone within the machinery of government will attend to your concerns. Two wrongs do not make a right.”“Breaking the law is never the answer to resolving legitimate issues. Our democracy provides lawful avenues for citizens to seek justice and accountability, including peaceful petitions and, where necessary, the courts.”Looking ahead as the country moves beyond its 50th anniversary, the Prime Minister called on all Papua New Guineans to embrace peaceful resolution and protect Enga’s future from being held hostage by armed criminals.“Peaceful advocacy will always achieve more than violence or intimidation. You do not need to fight the Government to have your concerns heard.”“Raise them through the proper processes, and I have every confidence that someone, somewhere within our system of government will respond.”“To Chief Superintendent Harris and his team, I say: The Government and the people of Papua New Guinea stand with you. Remain strong, continue your duties professionally and know that your courage is recognized and deeply appreciated.”“Enga has produced many outstanding leaders, professionals, public servants and businesspeople. Its future must not be held hostage by a small number of armed criminals.”“The people deserve peace, development and the freedom to move, work, learn and raise their families without fear.”“Let us all work together to restore lasting peace, uphold the rule of law and build a stronger and more united Papua New Guinea.”

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), in partnership with FIFA, successfully conducted a five-day FIFA Member Association (MA) Instructors Course from July 27th-31st, 2026, at the PNGFA Education Centre in Lae, Morobe province.Facilitated by FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian alongside Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Technical Instructor Ben Niso and Regional Fitness Instructor Kennedy Yambundimi, the programme brought together 25 participants representing all four regions of Papua New Guinea.This initiative reinforces PNGFA’s commitment to building a highly skilled network of coach educators nationwide.PNGFA Chief Operating Officer Stanley Khanna officially opened and closed the course, commending the participants for their dedication to advancing football education.The workshop aimed to equip instructors with the latest knowledge, teaching methodologies, and practical skills required of modern football educators.Through a blend of classroom sessions, practical field activities, and collaborative learning, participants enhanced their capacity to deliver high-quality coaching programmes within their home regions.Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr. Khanna acknowledged FIFA and the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) for their continued support in strengthening local football development.“Our instructors play a critical role in shaping the next generation of coaches across the country.”“By investing in their education, we are investing in the future of football in Papua New Guinea.”“We sincerely thank FIFA and OFC for their continued commitment to developing our people and raising coaching standards.”FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian praised the participants for their enthusiasm and willingness to learn throughout the week, encouraging them to apply their new skills to foster regional growth.Additionally, PNGFA extended its appreciation to the Presidents of Member Associations who supported the programme by covering participant expenses, demonstrating a crucial investment in regional technical structures.This FIFA MA Instructors Course reflects FIFA’s ongoing commitment to building capacity and ensuring coaching standards align with internationally recognized levels.Moving forward, PNGFA remains dedicated to establishing sustainable development pathways through continuous professional education for coaches, instructors, and technical personnel across the country.

The Maimai’s in New Ireland province yesterday turned up at the New Ireland Provincial Administration office building, dressed up in their traditional attire to protest and demand the immediate resignation of current Provincial Administrator – Mr. Richard Andia.In a media conference held in Port Moresby yesterday, New Ireland Governor, Byron Chan said that he was informed of the protest carried out by concerned chiefs, elders and community representatives of the Maimai’s, placing traditional taboos at the provincial administration building.He said the protest is in relation to the recent orders by the Prime Minister to suspend underperforming public officers from the National level down to the Provincial level.Governor Chan highlighted that he is aware of the decision and the Provincial Executive Council has already deliberated on the matter by agreeing to the resignation of Mr. Andia.“We have just received the letter from the Public Service Commission to proceed with the appointment of the new administrator, and we will be doing so on my return to the province this week.“The process has already started, and I just want to reaffirm our decision (PEC’s decision) to proceed with the resignation of our current Administrator, Mr. Richard Andia. However, processes are there and we must not overlook it, but it will take time,” said Governor Chan.The New Ireland Governor has asked the people, especially the Maimai Leaders, Chiefs and elders to withdraw from what they’re doing, and patiently wait for the process to fulfil itself as everyone is subject to the laws of Papua New Guinea.   Chan returns to the Province on Thursday this week and will call a provincial executive council meeting to further discuss this matter.

A total of 23 children were among 58 victims displaced by sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) who have received food, accommodation and logistical support from Tribal Foundation, so to attend court hearings in Simbu and Port Moresby since June.PNG Tribal Foundation continues to work tirelessly to support families affected by Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV). These are families who are displaced from their homes and land. They have been provided with food supplies, accommodation, transport, and other logistical support to travel from their villages to attend court hearings.GT Bustin, President of Tribal Foundation said two SARV cases from Gumine and Chuave districts, which occurred in July 2023, are still before the court in Kundiawa. The eyewitnesses and victims were assisted with logistical support, accommodation and food while staying in Kundiawa attending their case with police and court officials.Police were also assisted with fuel to transport eyewitnesses from their locations to Kundiawa.In Port Moresby, two SARV cases involving displaced families living in undisclosed locations included 27 victims, among them are thirteen children. In another case, a displaced family of nine, including six children, the youngest is nine months old with both parents received food supplies and rental bills paid.Mr. Bustin said the organisation had paid airfares for three eyewitnesses, and four children who will travel this week on either MAF or Niugini Aviation flights to Kundiawa to assist police with investigations on recent SARV incident in Wenaiyo village, Salt Nomane District.“We have a CID officer who has worked closely on the Karimui case, ensuring all evidence is collected and properly documented for the 15 suspects currently in custody to face the law,” he said.“We are currently monitoring and looking after four injured victims at Kundiawa General Hospital, two guardians, a widow, and another seven people who are travelling from Karimui to Kundiawa to assist police with the investigations.”He said police had also sought assistance to cover stationery costs, including printing, photocopying and binding court documents for the case, and we are also looking at supporting them.“We have given police our full support over the years, and we appreciate the important work they do in helping innocent victims seek justice,” he said.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) intelligence capability has just been boosted with the recent graduation of a platoon of intelligence operators.The PNGDF ability to analyse and respond to the strategic environment has been strengthened following the graduation of 30 intelligence operators from the Intelligence Operators Course last month.Held over three weeks under the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP), the course taught participants how to collect information, analyse it, and report their findings. Through classroom learning and practical exercises, graduates learned how to apply core intelligence skills in realistic situations. The training gives participants the knowledge and confidence to deliver timely, accurate and relevant intelligence support to PNGDF commanders and teams.The course graduation ceremony was attended by the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Defence, Ms Doreen Joel, who presented awards to the students who achieved the highest standards during the training.PNGDF Second Lieutenant Mark Tommy received the Officer's Award, while Lance Corporal Simon Bonny was awarded the Soldier's Award in recognition of their outstanding performance and commitment throughout the course.PNGDF Chief of Defence Intelligence, Colonel John Manuai, congratulated the graduates on their achievement and highlighted the importance of intelligence capability to the force's future readiness.“The graduates' commitment to intellectual curiosity and critical thinking has set a strong foundation for their development as trusted advisors to their commanders and teams,” Colonel Manuai said.“The resilience, dedication and professionalism demonstrated throughout the course reflect the high standards expected of intelligence operators and will contribute to strengthening the PNGDF's operational capability.”Ms. Joel said the course reflected the enduring value of defence cooperation between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia.“The partnership between the PNGDF and Australia continues to strengthen as friendships and professionalism grow through courses like this one,” Ms Joel said.Australian Defence Advisor, Colonel Nicholas Trotter, said the participants demonstrated exceptional commitment throughout the training.“A high level of enthusiasm was evident among all the students from day one of the course. Their dedication every day to this robust course is testament to their keen desire to become intelligence professionals,” Colonel Trotter said.“This hands-on learning shows how we are strengthening the PNG-Australia alliance and deepening our partnership at a people-to-people level.”Australia continues to work side by side with PNG to support PNGDF personnel through training, skills exchange and capability-building activities. These opportunities exemplify the defence alliance between PNG and Australia, improving the capability and interoperability of the two forces.

Tari Airport will receive its first dedicated airport fire station following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the National Airports Corporation (NAC), the Hela Provincial Government and the PNG Fire & Rescue Service.The agreement aims to strengthen aviation safety and emergency response at Tari Airport while also improving fire protection for Tari Town and surrounding communities.NAC Board Chairman Jacob Anga said airport operations and fire services must work hand in hand, particularly as Hela continues to grow."Airport and Fire Service go hand in hand. With Hela's rapid economic growth, this facility is essential to mitigate risks and safeguard lives and infrastructure."Hela Governor Philip Undialu welcomed the partnership, saying the province has major public investments that require protection."We have hundreds of millions of kina worth of infrastructure assets that require protection, and a Fire Station is a crucial priority. The Hela Provincial Government stands ready to support this partnership in every way possible."PNG Fire & Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer Bill Roo said one of two new fire trucks expected to arrive in September will be deployed to Tari."We have been proactively preparing for a Fire Station there, and this agreement is timely. We've already appointed a Fire Commander for Tari and will recruit fire officers. PNG Fire & Rescue Service will play its part in keeping both the airport and Tari Town fire safe."Under the agreement, NAC will assist in constructing and operating the airport fire station, provide land within the airport boundary, and support operations with a vehicle and a 15-seater bus.The three partners will also work together on emergency planning, training exercises and disaster response to ensure emergency teams are prepared to respond quickly to incidents affecting the airport and surrounding communities.Commissioned in 2023, Tari Airport forms part of NAC's nationwide airport redevelopment program aimed at improving aviation infrastructure and safety across Papua New Guinea.