PNG Haus Bung

The Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF) Board announced the appointment of Mr. Andrew Mari as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).OTDF Board Chairman Jesse Pile said the Board unanimously endorsed Mr. Mari’s appointment in recognition of his outstanding leadership, extensive experience, and commitment to sustainable community development.Mr. Mari has been serving in leadership positions within OTDF for several years and previously acted as CEO from November 2024 to March 2026.During this period, he made significant contributions towards strengthening corporate governance and enhancing the financial stewardship of Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) future generation funds.“Andrew has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to OTDF’s mission of improving the lives of communities in Western Province.”“His passion for agribusiness, sustainability, and social empowerment closely aligns with OTDF’s charitable purpose and long-term development goals.”Mr. Mari began his professional career with Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) in 2008 as a Graduate Development Scheme (GDS) trainee.He was appointed Community Relations Officer in 2010 and subsequently promoted to Superintendent responsible for Community Relations Operations in Kiunga.Following his departure from OTML in 2016 to pursue postgraduate studies, Mr. Mari joined OTDF in 2019 as Coordinator Sustainable Development.Since then, he has held several senior leadership roles, including:Superintendent Community Relations Kiunga, OTMLCoordinator Sustainable Development, OTDFManager Program Services & Sustainable Development, OTDFExecutive Manager Program Services, OTDFActing Chief Executive Officer, OTDFMr. Mari holds a Master of Agri Commerce from Massey University, New Zealand, and a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with Merit from the PNG University of Technology.He is a Certified Practicing Agriculturist (CPA), a member of the Ag Institute Australia and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (MAICD).He is currently undertaking a Master of Business Administration at Divine Word University and is expected to complete the program at the end of 2026.As CEO, Mr. Mari aims to continue in this part to advance OTDF’s strategic priorities, focusing on sustainable livelihoods, community development, governance excellence, and long-term social and economic outcomes for CMCA communities.The OTDF Board congratulated Mr. Mari on his appointment and looks forward to supporting him in his new leadership role.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Agriculture and Trade Festival in Goroka in the Eastern Highlands province, is set to be bigger with a good number of participants already registered to attend this year.  The event is hosted by the Highlands Farmers and Settlers Association (FSA) and has already over 40 corporate and government agencies and associations secured their participation and exhibitions.Some prominent industry exhibitions are New Guinea Fruit, Chemica, Farmset, Agmark, Brian Bell, Rumion Farms, Agmark Machinery, Trukai, Homestate, Mainland Holdings, ICI Dulux. The President of the Highlands FSA, Mr. Wilson Thompson, said there will be displays from Poultry Industry Association, Farmers and Settlers Association and SME displays under Department of Agriculture and Livestock. “We also have key government agencies such as DAL, NARI, Small Medium Enterprise Corporation, National Trade Office, Department of International Trade and Investment, National Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology, Spice Board, KIK, Investment Promotion Authority and others that deal with business and support to the agriculture sector.”“We also target our youths and so displays from EH Division of Education, Goroka Technical College, University of Goroka, National Research Institute, Air Niugini and also featuring the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), BSP and MiBank on financial literacy and awareness that complement the full agencies from the Ministries of Commerce, Trade and Industry and Investment.”The event will be hosted at the Show grounds at the National Sports Institute (NSI) at Goroka and it is aimed to celebrate, showcase and promote the agriculture sector. It will not host singsing groups, string bands and music shows but all activities geared towards information, awareness and education. “We will have other events such as races and fun events associated with the focus on agriculture.” The gate fee is K1 for children under 12 and K2 for everyone. Also, 2, 500 free tickets will be issued to selected schools in all Districts in EHP every day. This event also celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the Farmers and Settlers Association, with its Charter formally adopted in 1956. The PNG Agriculture and Trade Festival will commence tomorrow, Friday 28th August and ending on Sunday 30th August.

The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) Acting Chairman, Maini Mike Ugaia, has condemned the physical assault of a National Capital District (NCD) teacher, who stated that administrative delays and neglect contributed to the incident.Mr. Ugaia said the matter stemmed from the failure of NCD Education authorities to act on a TSC directive issued in January to reinstate displaced teachers to their rightful positions.While most affected teachers were reinstated, one teacher’s case was not addressed, resulting in his payroll suspension and loss of income since April.The TSC said the teacher’s case remained unresolved for more than seven months, causing severe financial hardship and leading to a confrontation with the NCD First Assistant Secretary (FAS).A video circulating on social media shows the NCD FAS punching the teacher during the altercation.The Commission also confirmed receiving reports that the teacher had threatened the FAS before the physical confrontation.“While threatening a public official is entirely wrong, leaders must report such behaviour to the appropriate law enforcement authorities rather than resorting to personal violence.”Mr. Ugaia stressed that TSC directives must be applied fairly and consistently to all teachers.“When the TSC issues an official instruction to reinstate teachers, it must be applied fairly to everyone without exception.”He also expressed displeasure over the unfairness demonstrated, and said administrative processes must not be used to neglect or punish individual teachers.Meanwhile, the TSC Advisor for NCD has been instructed to immediately secure a vacant position for the affected teacher so he can return to the payroll.The Commission has also warned the National Education Board and Provincial Education Boards that selective compliance with TSC directives will no longer be tolerated.Furthermore, Mr. Ugaia said all provinces must establish independent disciplinary committees to ensure teacher conduct issues are handled through proper legal processes rather than through unfair displacement of staff.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed 34 Australians are among hundreds of people missing after a massive flash flood and mudslide swept through Nepal’s Himalayan border region with China this morning.More than 150 people have been killed in Nepal, while hundreds of tourists remain missing following the disaster.Nepal’s tourism board says the missing include more than 100 people from India, 54 from the United States and 33 from the United Kingdom, as well as more than 100 Nepalese nationals.The region is popular with pilgrims and trekkers, including those travelling as part of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi says India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal, with teams coordinating on rescue and relief operations.In Tibet, Chinese state media reports three people have died and 265 are missing. CCTV footage shows a powerful wall of water and mud hitting buildings at a border crossing.Dozens of Nepalese police officers and army personnel are also reported missing, along with workers involved in operations in the affected area.Authorities initially believed an earthquake may have triggered the disaster, but the United States Geological Survey says the seismic energy was instead generated by a landslide.Rescue teams are continuing to search for those missing as authorities assess the scale of the destruction and provide assistance to affected communities.Source: BBC

More than 150 people have been killed and hundreds remain missing after a massive flash flood and mudslide struck Nepal.According to Nepal’s tourist board, those missing include more than 100 tourists from India, 54 from the United States and 33 from the United Kingdom.More than 100 Nepalese are also reported missing, along with dozens of police officers, army personnel and power workers.Authorities had initially considered whether an earthquake triggered the disaster, but the US Geological Survey says the seismic energy detected was generated by a landslide.Search and rescue efforts are continuing.Source: BBC News 

The National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Police Command has unveiled a robust security strategy aimed at transforming Port Moresby into a safe, secure, and welcoming capital city. The announcement comes as the city prepares to host a series of major international conferences and to celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence Anniversary.Speaking on behalf of the Command, Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab emphasized that maintaining law and order is critical to supporting tourism, business investment, and national confidence.“Port Moresby is entering an important period with visitors from around the world. We are committed to ensuring the capital is safe, secure, and professionally policed.”As part of the 2026 Annual Management Plan, the NCD Command has initiated a strategy of quarterly major operations targeting specific public safety concerns.The first quarter saw the execution of “Operation Street Eviction,” which focused on reclaiming public spaces, improving road safety, and clamping down on public disorder. The operation targeted illegal activities and behaviors that posed risks to pedestrians and traffic flow.Addressing recent concerns regarding settlement evictions, the Metropolitan Superintendent clarified that police act only as enforcement agencies for lawful court orders.“The decision to grant an eviction order rests with the appropriate court and not with the police.”Following this, the NCD Command launched “Operation Sentinel- High Visibility Policing” in the second quarter. This intelligence-led initiative increases police presence at crime hotspots, PMV routes, markets, schools, and shopping centres.The campaign slogan, “Visible Police. Smart Policing. Safer Communities,” underscores the shift toward proactive community engagement.Recognizing emerging environmental challenges, the Command has integrated strategies to support other government agencies in responding to El Niño and climate-related risks, ensuring public safety during emergencies.The NCD Metropolitan Command’s 2026 policing strategy is built around two major priorities:• To make Port Moresby a safer and more secure city, restore public confidence in policing and create an environment that supports tourism, business and investor confidence.• To establish a strong foundation for a peaceful and secure 2027 National General Election.Additionally, the NCD Metropolitan Command has commenced awareness campaigns for the National Gun Amnesty.Officers have encouraged individuals possessing illegal firearms to surrender them voluntarily. This move is seen as a vital step in reducing violence ahead of the upcoming 2027 National General Election.A significant portion of the 2026 strategy is dedicated to preparing for the 2027 National General Election.The Command is conducting extensive research into electoral security, analyzing past election challenges, and studying international best practices.“The Command is strengthening its understanding of electoral security, including communities vulnerable to election-related violence and stakeholders who can prevent de-escalation.”We will place particular emphasis on Community Policing and partnerships, because election security cannot be achieved by police alone.Emphasizing the need for collective responsibility, the Command called on citizens, churches, businesses, and community leaders to partner with police. “Election security cannot be achieved by police alone.”“Our message is: ‘Use your vote, not violence. Choose your leaders peacefully.”The NCD Metropolitan Command reiterated that a safe Port Moresby is everyone’s responsibility and while officers remain committed to professional and lawful enforcement, the success of these initiatives depends on community cooperation.“A safe Port Moresby supports tourism. A secure Port Moresby supports investment. A peaceful Port Moresby supports our communities. A peaceful election strengthens our democracy.”“SAFE CITY. CONFIDENT COMMUNITY. PEACEFUL ELECTION.”

Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed the unanimous passage of the Pacific Adventist University Bill 2026 by the National Parliament, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening higher education and investing in Papua New Guinea’s future. The bill was passed in Parliament on Friday August 26, with overwhelming bipartisan support, receiving 62 votes in favour and none against.Prime Minister Marape congratulated Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology Minister Kinoka Feo for successfully steering the legislation through Parliament and acknowledged the Pacific Adventist University Council, the Seventh-day Adventist Church and all stakeholders who contributed to the reform process. “This unanimous vote demonstrates Parliament’s shared commitment to education and to building the human capital that Papua New Guinea needs to achieve its Vision 2050 aspirations,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Education remains one of the most powerful investments any nation can make.” “Today’s decision ensures that Pacific Adventist University is equipped with a modern legal framework that will allow it to continue producing graduates who will serve our nation with distinction.” He stated that the new legislation modernises the governance framework of Pacific Adventist University, replacing the outdated 1997 Act with legislation that reflects contemporary higher education standards, stronger governance, greater accountability and institutional autonomy.Moreover, he said that the reforms were consistent with the government’s broader agenda to strengthen tertiary education institutions so they could better prepare Papua New Guinea’s workforce for the challenges and opportunities of the future.“Universities are not simply places for learning; they are centres of innovation, research, leadership and nation building.”“Our government is committed to ensuring that both public and private higher education institutions operate under legislative frameworks that promote excellence, transparency and international competitiveness.” Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape also commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its longstanding contribution to education, healthcare and community development in Papua New Guinea over many decades.

Country music legend Dolly Parton, one of the world’s most celebrated singer-songwriters and philanthropists, has died aged 80.Her death was announced by her nephew, Brian Seaver, on Instagram.Parton was known for her powerful songwriting, distinctive voice and colourful personality.She wrote some of country music’s most famous songs, including Jolene and I Will Always Love You.She scored 25 US country number-one singles and had 47 albums reach the country Top 10. Her 1980 hit 9 to 5 also topped the US pop charts and earned her an Oscar nomination.Parton was also a successful actress, appearing in films including 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Steel Magnolias.Born into poverty in Tennessee, Parton grew up in a family of 12 children.She began singing in church and performed at the Grand Ole Opry at the age of 13.She moved to Nashville after finishing high school in 1964 and began her career as a songwriter before becoming a recording artist.Her partnership with Porter Wagoner helped launch her career, while her later duet with Kenny Rogers, Islands in the Stream, became another major hit.Parton was also widely praised for her philanthropy. Her Imagination Library literacy programme has provided more than 150 million books to children.She was married to Carl Dean from 1966 until her death, with the couple renewing their vows in 2016 to mark their 50th wedding anniversary.Parton won 10 Grammy Awards and remained one of country music’s most recognisable and beloved figures for decades.Source: The Guardian

The 321 Lotto Group team has recently visited the Children’s Cancer Ward at the Port Moresby General Hospital, showing their support to Children and families undergoing cancer treatment.With Port Moresby general Hospital been the only hospital in the country dedicated to Children’s Cancer ward, the ward began its operation in 2015 with only four beds within the Paediatrics ward. It has since expanded into a dedicated facility with an addition of 12 beds, specifically for children receiving cancer treatment.During the visit, the team did a donation of toiletries, colouring books, crayons, and board games to help keep the children comfortable and entertained during their admission in the ward. The team also distributed drinking water and toiletries to the nursing staff in support of their dedication and care.Paediatrician Dr Benjamin Daur, representing the Children’s cancer ward expressed his gratitude towards the 321 group team for their contribution. He mentioned the importance of initiatives that support patients and their families.“Initiatives like this are truly appreciated, as many of our patients come from outside provinces. This kind of support goes a long way in helping children and their families during their stay here in the ward.” Dr Daur said.He also highlighted the importance of strengthening support systems for patients, particularly within public health facilities.“One thing we need to prioritize is ensuring we have better systems in place when patients come in, especially in public hospitals. There are social and psychological support needs that must be addressed, as well as improving the day-to-day support provided to our patients.”The 321 team was grateful to be part of the visit and to contribute in a small way towards making the children’s time comfortable and positive in the ward.The group said that they remain committed to supporting initiatives that make meaningful difference in the communities where they operate in.

In a historic first for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), sixteen women from the Blue Haven Women’s Alliance and wives of police officers, completed a financial literacy training program recently.The two-day course, held at the Morata Police Barracks, marks the first time the force has undertaken formal financial education initiatives for its community members.The participants were presented with certificates during a graduation ceremony, recognizing their completion of modules focused on essential skills such as budgeting, saving, and long-term financial planning.Sergeant Joe Paiembi, Second-in-Command at Waigani Police Station, confirmed that this initiative represents a significant departure from traditional police training protocols.“Police training has traditionally focused mainly on policing duties and operational aspects of law enforcement. This training marks an important step towards empowering mothers of the police community with practical financial management skills, addressing a critical need for welfare and stability within the force,” Sergeant Paiembi said.Deputy Secretary for the Equality and Inclusion Division, Mr. Jack Simbou commended the participants for taking the initiative to improve their financial capabilities.“Not many of us are very good at budgeting and planning, using money and managing money. So, I think it is a very important training for us to use, or even run, in all other departments that we have,” Mr. Simbou told the group.He emphasized that these skills are vital for both public servants and those in the private sector.Also speaking on behalf of the Policy Advice and Program Development Division, Assistant Director for Monitoring and Evaluation, Ms. Sharon Gore who highlighted the broader national impact of individual financial responsibility.“Your participation and your interest to come and learn is an indication of your taking ownership of what we need to do as a country individually,” Ms. Gore said.She encouraged the graduates to apply their new knowledge to foster greater economic resilience within their families and communities.On behalf of the 16 participants, Chairlady of the Blue Haven Women’s Alliance, Ms. Josie Kikoi expressed gratitude to the Department and the Secretary for facilitating the program.“It is a privilege for us, the Police Family, to attend this training. We have learned important lessons about budgeting, saving, managing our money wisely and planning for the future,” Ms. Kikoi said.Ms. Kikoi urged her fellow attendees to view the certificate presentation not merely as a celebration, but as a binding commitment to implement these lessons in their daily lives. She noted that the skills gained would have a ripple effect, benefiting not only the participants but also their extended families, associations, and wider communities.The success of this pilot program suggests potential for expanded financial literacy workshops within the RPNGC in the future, aiming to strengthen the socioeconomic foundation of the police family.

Speaking on behalf of Secretary Taies Sansan, Ellison Kalimet, the Deputy Secretary of Policy and Reform at the Department of Personnel Management, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the formal handover ceremony of education functions from the National Department of Education (NDoE) to the National Capital District Commission (NCDC).The ceremony, which took place at Butuka Academy along Pari Road, marked a significant milestone in executing the National Executive Council (NEC) Decision No. 142/2020 to decentralize education services.“We have worked diligently over the past six years to reach this important milestone,” Mr. Kalimet said. “The transfer of education functions is a crucial step toward improving service delivery in our schools and ensuring resources are managed effectively for the benefit of our children.”The transition included transferring human resource functions from the NDoE to the NCDC, placing officers into the newly established Education Services Division.Mr. Kalimet noted that the process followed the Public Services (Management) Act to ensure a smooth, orderly handover.As part of this reform, policy functions, standards, and curriculum oversight will remain within the National Department of Education.Meanwhile, the NCDC will take charge of managing the day-to-day delivery of education services across the National Capital District.Mr. Kalimet highlighted that this shift aligns with the Government’s broader 70:20:10 manpower distribution policy, which aims to strengthen service delivery by sending most public servants to frontline implementation while keeping sufficient capacity in national agencies for policy development and oversight.He shared his confidence that the move will improve education services and lead to better outcomes for students throughout the district.He also pointed to the recent establishment of the Government’s new Payroll Office as another demonstration of the commitment to operational efficiency and public sector reform.“The same principles that guided the establishment of the Payroll Office will support the effective management of education functions under the NCDC.”Concluding his remarks, Mr. Kalimet congratulated everyone involved in the complex transition, giving special recognition to Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra and his team, while wishing NCDC City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank success in overseeing the new responsibilities.“Together, we are laying the foundation for stronger education services and a better future for the next generation,” Mr. Kalimet said.

Buk bilong Pikinini’s 2026 Book Week has given young learners the chance to take their learning beyond the classroom and explore different careers through hands-on workplace experiences.Students from quite a few Buk bilong Pikinini Library Learning Centres (LLC) visited Theodist, Hastings Deering, Airways Hotel and Dulux Group (PNG), where they met professionals and participated in activities linked to the organization’s When I Grow Up career readers.At Theodist, students from the Koki LLC were introduced to graphic design and printing. They toured the Print Shop, met the design team and saw how ideas are turned into brochures, booklets, banners, signage and other printed materials.The students also got a behind-the-scenes look at large printing and folding machines, bringing the When I Grow Up I Want to Be a Graphic Designer reader to life.The Koki students also visited Hastings Deering, where they explored the world of heavy equipment operations.They toured different areas of the yard, including parts processing and service areas, before receiving a hands-on introduction to operating a forklift and backhoe. The experience connected with BbP’s When I Grow Up I Want to Be a Heavy Equipment Operator reader and showed the children the skills involved in the industry.At Airways Hotel and Residences, children from the 9-Mile LLC explored the hospitality and culinary profession through a pizza-making master class.After a reading session featuring When I Grow Up I Want to Be a Pastry Chef, the children learned how to prepare pizza bases, spread sauce, add cheese and choose their favourite toppings before baking their creations.The next day, students from the Pari LLC explored colour, creativity and the paint industry during a visit to Dulux Group (PNG).The children took part in an interactive Colour Play session, experimenting with colour mixing, rollers and brushes while creating handprints and artwork. They also visited the Dulux warehouse and watched how different paint colours are created.Buk bilong Pikinini says the Book Week excursions are designed to connect literacy and early learning with real-world experiences, helping children develop curiosity, confidence and aspirations for the future.