Farmers in Atataini village, Menyamya District, are calling for government support as they expand a local taro project. The group has developed two farm sites using their own resources. But progress is slow without training, tools, and funding. Farm coordinator Hamsron Kennedy said the group has been waiting for assistance since last year. “We have been waiting for government help, but there has been no response. We are still working, but we need support to improve,” he said. The first farm has grown from a small nursery into a planned plantation of 50 to 55 hectares. Farmers are adding new activities to sustain the project. A nursery house is being built for cabbage seedlings, and a poultry house is under construction to help raise funds. The second farm is still in its early stages. Farmers plan to grow taro before moving into crops like potatoes and bulb onions. They also plan to plant kaukau to feed workers and pigs after harvesting taro. Avocado trees will support livestock. Kennedy said the project has strong potential but cannot grow without outside help. “We are trying our best, but we need training and proper tools to move forward,” he said. The farmers say timely support would boost food production and create income for the community.

Acting Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), Maini Mike Ugaia, has issued an urgent directive to Provincial Education Boards (PEBs) and national education authorities to expedite the processing of teacher appointments and duty resumption data.The directive comes as the deadline for the 2026 “auto-suspension” approaches; a system-driven process that will remove teachers from the government payroll if their administrative records and Resumption of Duty Summary Sheets (RODSS) are not finalized and entered into the Alesco payroll system. Reports indicate that several provinces have yet to complete the required data input for the 2026 academic year, raising concerns about the potential impact on teachers nationwide. Ugaia expressed disappointment that despite the decentralization of payroll functions, there has been little improvement in processing efficiency. He warned that delays could disrupt the education system and place unnecessary hardship on teachers and their families. To safeguard teacher welfare and maintain stability in schools, the TSC has issued strict instructions to all provinces. Current teachers are to be prioritized in appointments, whether at their existing levels or for promotional roles. Confirmed tenure holders must also be protected in accordance with the Teacher Tenure Confirmation Gazette, with any review of tenure only to be conducted based on official non-performance reports from the Inspectorate. The Chairman further stressed that appointment processes must not be used as disciplinary measures and should remain strictly merit-based, free from political interference. “Teachers are nation builders, and we must ensure their welfare is prioritized.” “Provinces must act now to ensure every genuine teacher remains on the payroll and in the classroom.” “We want to see a significant decrease in the number of teachers affected by auto-suspension, which causes undue hardship to families.” Teachers who have not yet been confirmed in their 2026 appointments or whose RODSS have not been processed have been urged to immediately contact their respective provincial TSC offices.

Six of the 12 up-armoured Landcruiser vehicles gifted by Australia to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) late last year are now being used in a driver training program at Murray Barracks and the Goldie River Training Depot outside of Port Moresby city. The course is designed to equip PNGDF personnel from across the country with the skills to operate the vehicles, strengthening the force’s protected mobility capability. Eight PNGDF members have qualified as driving instructors and are now delivering training to participants, with additional support from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) through the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP). Corporal Maria Andaku, who has served for 12 years in the Force Support Battalion (FSB), is among the instructors. She is training transport personnel in technical operation, maintenance and the safe handling of the up-armoured vehicles for use in exercises and operations. “We are training them to be qualified to handle the up-armoured vehicle. It’s a big change to the course and we are grateful to the ADF for the vehicles,” she said. Corporal Petra Kimbis, also from the FSB with 14 years of service, is a participant in the course. She is the only female among 15 men in her training group. “As a female behind the wheel of an armoured vehicle, I am grateful. It’s challenging, but it’s interesting and I’m really enjoying the course,” she said. Australian Defence Force Lance Corporal Emily Murphy, a tactical training instructor assisting in the program, said she values the opportunity to work alongside PNGDF members and learn from them, particularly Corporals Andaku and Kimbis. The joint training highlights the important role of women as both leaders and learners within the PNGDF and ADF, while strengthening the enduring defence partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.

The country’s economy is growing strongly supported by good earnings in tax revenues coming from the great performance in the resource sector projects. Prime Minister James Marape reaffirmed that this is supported by clear national data showing a significant rise in government revenue over the past seven years, while making it clear that the Government will not enter into resource agreements that short-change the nation. “In 2018, Papua New Guinea collected a total tax revenue of K9.7 billion. Of this, mining and petroleum taxes contributed only K775 million,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This was at a time when the old Porgera Mine was still operating under previous agreements, PNG LNG was already in production, and all major resource projects were active. Yet, despite these projects running at full capacity, revenue remained at that level. “By 2025, total tax revenue has increased significantly to K17.064 billion—almost double. Importantly, mining and petroleum tax alone has risen to K4.137 billion. “This clearly shows that our economy is growing, our revenue base is expanding, and our efforts to improve compliance and governance are delivering real results.” Prime Minister Marape further highlighted that total government revenue, including grants and other income streams, has also expanded substantially. “In 2018, total budget revenue stood at around K14 billion. By 2025, this has grown to approximately K25 billion,” he said. “This is a clear indication that our national economy is not in decline. It is growing, and it is becoming stronger.” The Prime Minister emphasized that this growth has been achieved even before the commencement of major new resource projects such as Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu. “Even without Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu coming into operation, we have grown internal tax revenue from K9.7 billion to over K17 billion,” he said. “This demonstrates that our strategy to diversify the economy — focusing on agriculture, construction, and other sectors — is working.” He added that the Government has strengthened tax compliance to ensure all businesses operating in the country meet their obligations. “We are tightening compliance and ensuring that everyone who should pay tax is paying tax. This is part of building a fair and responsible economy.”

Two of the country’s leading higher education institutions, Papua New Guinea University of Technology and University of Papua New Guinea, have already released official notices outlining dates, requirements, and procedures for their 2026 graduation ceremonies. The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) will host its 58th Graduation Ceremony over two days, on April 16th and 17th, at its Taraka Campus in Lae. Graduations will be conducted by faculty, with Engineering, Natural Resources, and Science students graduating on April 16th, followed by Built Environment and Humanities on April 17. Graduands are required to submit their applications online via a designated Google form, while postgraduate students must liaise directly with the Academic and Students Administration Office.  PNGUoT has also set strict deadlines for gown applications and collections, with fees ranging from K350 for certificates to K700 for higher degrees. Gown collection is scheduled between April 11th and 15th, with specific days allocated to faculties. A rehearsal for all graduands will take place on April 15th at the Sandover Graduation Arena. Students must also complete an online graduate survey and clear all outstanding debts, fines and charges by April 3 to avoid delays in receiving certificates. Meanwhile, the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) will host its 71st Graduation Ceremony from April 27th to May 1st at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby. UPNG management confirmed that the official list of graduands, approved by the University Senate, will be published on its website and social media platforms. Students are required to purchase academic attire from the UPNG Bookshop, with gown requirements varying depending on qualifications, from diplomas to doctoral degrees. Graduation ceremonies at UPNG will run over five days, with different schools assigned specific dates and hood ribbon colours. Rehearsals are scheduled for April 22nd to 23rd at the UPNG Drill Hall. The university has also outlined financial obligations, including a K260 graduation fee and transcript fees, with strict deadlines for payment in April. Both institutions have emphasized that failure to meet deadlines for payments, applications, and documentation may result in students being excluded from graduation ceremonies and/or have their certification and transcripts withheld.

Police Commissioner David Manning has issued a strong warning to financial institutions in Papua New Guinea, urging banks to urgently report suspicious transactions as the country intensifies efforts to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist. Speaking to executives from eight banks operating in the country, Commissioner Manning said the financial sector must play a critical role in strengthening oversight and ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering requirements. “Now is not time for the financial sector to sit back and let questionable transactions slide. If you see something suspicious then you report it,” Manning said. The directive comes as Papua New Guinea works through requirements set under the FATF greylist framework, which places increased scrutiny on countries to improve measures against money laundering and financial crimes. Manning emphasized that timely reporting of suspicious transactions is essential to maintaining the integrity of the country’s financial system and supporting national efforts to meet international compliance standards. “If a flagged transaction is found to be legitimate, then this is an effective financial system at work. But a failure to exercise effective scrutiny over banking business in a timely manner is a failure to meet legislated due diligence requirements,” he said. He added that accurate and prompt transaction monitoring would significantly contribute to PNG’s efforts to exit the greylist and restore confidence in its financial systems. The Commissioner highlighted the role of the Asset Restraint and Recovery Working Group (ARROW), a multi-agency body tasked with identifying, restraining, and recovering proceeds of crime. ARROW includes key institutions such as the Bank of Papua New Guinea’s Financial Analysis and Supervision Unit, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, and the Office of the Public Prosecutor. Authorities say the group relies heavily on Suspicious Matter Reports (SMRs) submitted by financial institutions to detect and act on financial crimes. “We need bank information quickly, so that ARROW can use legislated tools to restrain and confiscate proceeds of crime before funds are siphoned off or transferred overseas,” Manning said. He noted that a significant number of reported cases relate to the misappropriation of government procurement funds, particularly involving Bank of Papua New Guinea cheques issued without proper supporting documentation. Manning warned that failure by financial institutions to follow legal processes could result in liability for facilitating money laundering, with legal action to be taken against non-compliant entities. Recent data shows a marked increase in the freezing of illegal funds over the past six months, indicating heightened enforcement efforts by authorities. Prime Ministerial directives have also reinforced the need for collaboration between government agencies and the private sector, particularly financial institutions, to ensure PNG exits the greylist promptly and strengthens its financial systems. With increased scrutiny and enforcement now underway, authorities are calling on banks to remain vigilant and proactive, as timely reporting and cooperation will be critical in safeguarding Papua New Guinea’s financial system and achieving its goal of exiting the FATF greylist.

Milne Bay cricketer Mesi Beloa made an impressive debut at Amini Park in Port Moresby, delivering a standout bowling performance on Day One of the rescheduled Boroko Motors ISUZU Men’s T20 Smash, despite his team’s loss. The 27-year-old fast bowler from Ahioma, Milne Bay Province, fulfilled a long-held dream of playing at the country’s premier cricket venue, marking the occasion with a strong showing against the Cassowaries. “It was a personal celebration for me when I hit the wicket. I was so happy, I dreamt of this day, to come to Port Moresby and play cricket at Amini Park,” Beloa said. Representing the Black Bass, Beloa returned impressive figures of 3 wickets for 8 runs from 3 overs, including one maiden and 11 dot balls, finishing with an economy rate of 2.67 in the opening match. Beloa, who plays for United Cricket Club in Milne Bay, has been involved in the sport for six years. His selection into the Black Bass squad highlights ongoing efforts by Cricket PNG to identify and develop talent from across the country, particularly from regions outside traditional high-performance centres. The ISUZU Men’s T20 Smash, running from March 19 to 29, serves as a key domestic competition aimed at strengthening player pathways. The tournament brings together emerging cricketers from across Papua New Guinea, offering them the opportunity to compete alongside and against members of the national men’s team, the Barramundis, and the U19 Garamuts squad. “It is an opportunity for me to take the experience back home. Playing alongside national players is not easy, but I want to learn, listen, and contribute to the team.” He also encouraged aspiring cricketers in Milne Bay to remain committed to the sport, emphasizing discipline and passion as key to success. “I want the youths and men back home to play cricket with commitment and passion. One day, you will have the opportunity to play alongside the country’s best players,” he added. Beloa said representing his province on the national stage was a proud moment, noting Milne Bay’s strong cricket history but limited representation in major domestic tournaments. He also stated that the competition provided an important platform to showcase talent from the province. While the Black Bass were defeated by the Cassowaries by 61 runs, Beloa’s performance stood out as a promising sign of the growing depth of cricket talent emerging from across Papua New Guinea’s regions. “I know it is a big dream, but I hope to play in the national team. And if not, I hope someone from Milne Bay does,” he said.

ACP Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi has issued a warning to residents of Tete Settlement and the Erima Wildlife area in Port Moresby to vacate their homes, confirming that long-standing court-ordered evictions will be enforced at any time. The eviction orders affect settlers living at Tete Settlement in the Moresby Northwest Electorate, particularly those in the front area near the field and those residing along the ridge in the Erima Wildlife area overlooking the Golf Course in Moresby Northeast. Chief Superintendent Turi said the affected residents had already been informed of the situation over several years, following court decisions dating back to 2018 and 2019, which ruled against the settlers. He explained that while police will carry out further awareness in the affected communities, all legal processes have been completed, and eviction orders are now in place. “Those who represented you in court regarding this land court case lost the court battle, so I would appreciate it if our citizens residing in these mentioned locations start to move out immediately because eviction will take place at any time from now. It is best that you leave, or the machines will move you out,” Turi said. Police say the evictions are being carried out in accordance with court directives and requests from legitimate landowners, with officers tasked to ensure the process is conducted lawfully. Turi also reminded city residents that occupying land without legal ownership places them at risk of eviction, stressing the importance of proper land documentation. “On that note, I want the city residents to take note that if you want to reside in any areas in the city, you must have land titles to settle. If you do not, then you are illegal settlers in the city because the NCDC, the government, and others who have titles are the genuine landowners, so they can carry out evictions when people purchase land or want to develop that area,” he said. He added that police have limited discretion in such matters, as their role is to enforce court orders and directives issued by authorities. Beyond the immediate evictions, Turi urged individuals planning to move into Port Moresby to prepare adequately before arriving in the city. He said people should have clear arrangements on where they will stay, who they will live with, and what plans they have in place should circumstances change. With eviction orders now confirmed and enforcement imminent, authorities are urging affected residents to relocate voluntarily to avoid forced removals, as police continue to uphold court decisions and land ownership laws in the capital.

The Papua New Guinea Women’s National Team, the PNG Bilums, have returned to camp following a week-long break after their successful round two campaign in Fiji. Players and team officials reconvened in Port Moresby on Wednesday this week, with training officially resuming at the PNG Football Stadium as preparations intensify for the finals round of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Oceania Qualifiers in New Zealand next month. The team will remain in camp in Port Moresby as they fine-tune their preparations ahead of departure on April 8. The Bilums are set to face American Samoa in the semi-final on April 12 at FMG Stadium Waikato, with a place in the final on April 15 at North Harbour Stadium at stake. Victory in the semi-final would see Papua New Guinea progress to the final, where they will meet the winner of Fiji and New Zealand in a decisive clash for qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. The winner of the Oceania qualifiers will secure direct entry to the global showpiece, while the runner-up will advance to the intercontinental playoff for another opportunity to reach the World Cup. Following a strong showing in round two, the Bilums return to camp with confidence and renewed focus as they continue their pursuit of a historic World Cup qualification. The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has called on all Papua New Guineans to continue supporting the PNG Bilums as they prepare to carry the nation’s hopes into the final stage of the qualifiers.

An adult man from Hela Province has voluntarily surrendered a high-powered firearm to police in Port Moresby. This surrender comes as Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi, intensifies calls for the public to support the nationwide illegal gun amnesty program. The individual, identified as Robert Tebua, is originally from Tari in Hela Province but currently resides in Hohola. He handed over the weapon at Boroko Police Station earlier this week following awareness campaigns conducted by Hohola-based officers. These local efforts align with directives issued by Police Minister Sir John Pundari in the lead-up to the national election. Tebua was accompanied by Sergeant Max Etebe to Boroko, where Chief Superintendent Turi formally received the firearm. Police confirmed the surrender was voluntary and part of a broader mission to remove illegal weapons from communities across Papua New Guinea. Turi welcomed the gesture, describing it as a positive response to both local policing and national messaging. The initiative, while initially launched in Enga Province, has since been expanded to cover the entire country. “The illegal gun amnesty is not only for the Highlands Provinces, but it is a nationwide program.” “I want those in the National Capital District who are in possession of illegal firearms to visit my office and surrender them to me so I can provide records to the management.” “I am happy with the individual who came forward, and I want more to come and surrender their illegal firearms.” “If you want to keep a firearm, follow the process, get a license, and keep your firearm.” According to police, this surrender highlights the growing impact of community policing. Turi acknowledged that awareness campaigns in settlements are being carried out under instructions from NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab, Central Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Joseph Salle, and his own office. These efforts are part of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s annual management plan and are aimed at strengthening cooperation between police and the public. Turi also commended Reservist Coordinator Chief Inspector Ruben Giusu and his team for their support. He revealed that ongoing operations across the city have already resulted in the confiscation of more than 300 knives and other offensive weapons. Alongside the gun amnesty, police are continuing stop-and-search operations targeting illegal activities and traffic-related offenses. Authorities have warned that enforcement will intensify, including the impounding of defective vehicles and the charging of offenders who fail to comply with directives. Police continue to urge members of the public to follow Robert Tebua’s example by surrendering illegal firearms voluntarily, emphasizing that the amnesty program remains a critical component of national safety and law enforcement.

The Divine Word University (DWU) Port Moresby Campus recently celebrated its 44th Graduation Ceremony, marking a significant milestone for 274 graduates from the Faculty of Business and Informatics. The event served as a vibrant gathering for graduates, families, academic staff, and dignitaries to honour academic success and reflect on DWU’s role in Papua New Guinea’s national development. Dr. Thomas Webster, Chairman of the Divine Word University Council, opened the proceedings by congratulating the cohort and acknowledging the vital support systems- families, sponsors, and partners- that made their success possible. He noted that these graduates are part of a larger group of nearly 1,569 students graduating across all DWU campuses during the 2025 academic year. Dr. Webster highlighted the historical significance of the event, noting that this year marks 30 years since DWU attained university status in 1996, though its educational roots in Madang date back to the 1960s. He reaffirmed the university's commitment to meeting workforce demands through flexible and full-time study options, grounded in Christian values as the nation celebrates 50 years of independence. The keynote address was delivered by the Chief Secretary to the Government, Mr. Ivan Pomaleu, who challenged the new alumni to lead with purpose. He urged the graduates to apply their skills to public service and private enterprise, stating that education is a critical foundation for national development. Mr. Pomaleu commended the university for developing ethical leaders and encouraged the class to uphold a strong sense of responsibility in their future roles. Meanwhile, DWU President Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs also addressed the assembly, reflecting on the harmony of faith and reason inherent in the Catholic intellectual tradition. He congratulated the class on overcoming various challenges and noted the university's expanding impact, mentioning that 793 students had graduated in Madang just the previous week. Fr. Gibbs emphasized the university's goal to form graduates in mind, heart, and spirit, prepared to serve others with competence and compassion. Representing the student body, Valedictorian Ms. Judith Wyborn shared a moving reflection on the shared journey and sacrifices of her peers. She spoke of the unique challenges faced by those in the Flexible Learning Centre (FLC), where students spent only two weeks together in class before returning to independent study in their home communities. Ms. Wyborn noted that their achievement was a true reflection of the discipline and perseverance required to balance family life and academic rigor. The ceremony also recognized six outstanding students who received awards for academic excellence across Master’s, Bachelor’s, and Diploma programs. The entire event was held under the theme “Serving the Nation with Quality Education Over Thirty Years,” a powerful reminder of DWU’s mission to provide ethical formation and academic excellence for the benefit of all communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

Police in Madang province are urging  travelers to be careful when commuting along the Madang–Usino Highway after a tragic incident occurred in the area. The message was delivered when officers responded to a tense situation at the Kawar Market.An adult male was killed recently in a violent incident involving a PMV driver. Police are still confirming the details.Following the incident, groups of villagers gathered in the area, making the highway unsafe. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim, said: “Members of the public must take extra care when using this road. Police are on the ground and ask for your patience.”He added that the highway, including the Bruce Jeffcott section, is risky, especially at night. People are advised to avoid unnecessary travel until the situation is under control.Police continue to monitor the area and work to restore normalcy.