PNG Haus Bung

The Nawaeb District Development Authority (NDDA) has officially launched a critical rural electrification and infrastructure project aimed at upgrading the quality of primary education and rural living standards in Morobe Province.The Honorable Theo Pelgen, MP, Member for Nawaeb and Chairman of the NDDA, officiated at the launching ceremony today for the new Solar Power Project at Sintogora Primary School. The clean energy project, fully funded by the NDDA, aims to modernize classrooms and provide reliable electricity to enhance the school's teaching capabilities.The event also marked the official handover of two newly constructed semi-permanent teachers' houses. Built in direct collaboration with the Sintogora School Board of Management (BOM), the housing project aims to attract and retain qualified teaching staff in the rural station.Located in Ward 7 of the Wain Erap Local Level Government (LLG), the combined infrastructure developments are part of a targeted initiative by the district to address long-standing challenges in rural education."These initiatives demonstrate our unwavering commitment to investing in critical education infrastructure across Nawaeb District," said Hon. Theo Pelgen, MP. "By providing reliable power and proper staff housing, we are systematically improving learning environments, empowering our teachers, and securing a brighter future for our children."The NDDA confirmed it will continue to prioritize sustainable energy and institutional housing partnerships with local school boards to modernize educational facilities across all three LLGs in the district.

A coalition of East Sepik leaders has formally petitioned police and municipal authorities to urgently enforce public safety regulations and restore order across the National Capital District (NCD).The delegation presented a comprehensive written petition today to the Commander of NCD and Central Provinces, Benjamin Turi. The document outlines severe safety, health, and regulatory concerns affecting residents across key residential zones, including Gerehu (Stages 1 to 7), Rainbow, Nautana, and Baruni.Community spokesperson Brian Molus stated that the petition directly reflects the daily hardships, safety threats, and illegal activities faced by residents."This is a metropolitan city, and the conduct of its residents must align with the law," said Mr. Molus. "This petition is fundamentally about keeping our capital clean and safe, ensuring it reflects the standards of a true metropolitan center. These challenges should serve as a catalyst for authorities and communities to collaborate on structural solutions."The petition calls for immediate, coordinated intervention from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) to address:• Unregulated roadside vending and the illegal occupation of public road reserves and footpaths.• Chronic loitering and harassment at public transport hubs.• Late-night noise disturbances, public consumption of alcohol, and disorderly conduct.• Unlicensed commercial operations operating within designated residential areas.• Escalating public health risks driven by poor sanitation and lack of regulatory compliance.• Targeted safety threats impacting vulnerable residents, including women, students, children, and the elderly.On behalf of the Sepik community, Mr. Molus also extended a formal apology for the civil unrest that occurred last Sunday, which caused widespread panic and disrupted local business houses. He confirmed that Sepik community leaders are actively engaging with leaders from the other provinces involved in the confrontation to broker a peaceful resolution, emphasizing that a minority must not be allowed to hold the city hostage.Receiving the petition, Commander Benjamin Turi commended the Sepik leaders for taking proactive responsibility to de-escalate tensions and urging local youths to lay down their arms.Commander Turi validated the community’s concerns, noting that the points raised in the petition are already priority operational areas for metropolitan police. He welcomed the call for institutional collaboration and confirmed that the petition will be elevated to the NCD Governor to establish a joint strategic framework between the police and the NCDC.While reaffirming that frontline officers remain deployed daily to enforce municipal laws, Commander Turi emphasized that a unified, multi-agency approach with the NCDC is critical to achieving a sustainable, clean, and safe city.

Papua New Guinea is officially ready to transition from drafting renewable energy policies and regulations to implementing practical, on-the-ground projects, with solar power identified as the primary vehicle to expand electricity access across rural, remote, and island communities.The declaration was delivered by Minister for Energy, Hon. Peter N. Isoaimo, MP, during his country statement at the Ninth Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly in India on Monday. Minister Isoaimo led the high-level Papua New Guinea delegation, which included senior representatives from the National Energy Authority (NEA).Papua New Guinea continues to face severe challenges in electricity penetration. The country’s exceptionally rugged terrain, highly dispersed populations, and prohibitive infrastructure costs mean a significant majority of rural settlements and outer islands remain completely isolated from conventional power grids.Minister Isoaimo stated that decentralized renewable energy—specifically solar power—offers the most practical, resilient, and cost-effective solution to bridge this energy gap. He reaffirmed the National Government's commitment to renewable energy as a core catalyst for inclusive economic growth under PNG Vision 2050.Through the NEA, Papua New Guinea has already established robust policy frameworks and regulatory foundations, including a comprehensive National Solar Roadmap. The immediate priority, according to the Minister, is translating these frameworks into bankable programs, investment opportunities, and scalable projects.“Our message is clear. Papua New Guinea is ready to advance from policy and regulatory development to practical implementation,” Minister Isoaimo told the Assembly.To fast-track this transition, Papua New Guinea formally called for a structured, delivery-focused partnership with the International Solar Alliance to convert its renewable energy ambitions into viable physical assets.Minister Isoaimo welcomed the ISA’s global mandate for project preparation, capacity-building, and strategic resource mobilization. He explicitly invited the Alliance to collaborate with the NEA to map out priority projects, target technical assistance needs, identify international financing partners, and establish rigid implementation timelines.Crucially, the Minister highlighted the necessity of bridging Papua New Guinea with development finance institutions (DFIs), private sector capital, and international technical partners to mobilize the substantial funding and expertise required for long-term sustainability. He urged the ISA to move beyond general policy advisory roles and actively assist the country in assembling bankable, investment-ready rural solar mini-grids.For Papua New Guinea, expanding renewable energy infrastructure extends far beyond environmental targets. Providing isolated communities with reliable electricity is expected to directly optimize essential healthcare and education services, stimulate local micro-economies, and create unprecedented development opportunities for populations that have long lacked dependable power.Minister Isoaimo concluded by reaffirming PNG's commitment to the ISA and its member states, emphasizing that robust international partnerships, innovative financing mechanisms, and localized technical capacity-building will be the defining factors in turning Papua New Guinea’s solar energy goals into reality.

 K92 Mining and Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) have officially strengthened their education partnership, launching a joint initiative to improve early childhood learning and adult literacy across K92 Mining’s host communities.The enhanced partnership focuses on two core pillars: community educator training for Early Childhood Education (ECE) and the co-development of structured teaching and learning materials for K92’s Adult Literacy Program.The initiative directly addresses needs highlighted during community consultations in Bilimoia and neighboring villages, where residents expressed a vital need for stronger early childhood learning foundations and consistent adult literacy resources.Dulciana Somare-Brash, K92 Mining Principal for Strategic Community Investments & Social Development, emphasized that the collaboration reflects K92’s deep commitment to sustainable development.“The partnership with Buk bilong Pikinini has enabled us to explore education opportunities across different age groups, from early childhood education through to adult literacy,” Ms. Somare-Brash said.To launch the initiative, the BbP team alongside K92’s Community Affairs and External Relations (CAER) Department conducted community visits to Watarais in Markham on October 10, followed by Bilimoia 1 and Unantu in Kainantu on October 11, introducing BbP’s foundational learning approach to local leaders and families.Following the visits, a intensive five-day Community Educator Training program was conducted from October 12–16, 2026. The sessions brought together 20 local participants (19 females and one male) from Bilimoia, Watarais, Unantu, and surrounding areas. The comprehensive training covered:• Child development stages and inclusive education (including introductory sign language)• Phonics, early literacy, and basic numeracy• Interactive reading, storytelling, and educational games• Lesson planning, classroom management, and child observation techniquesBuk bilong Pikinini Founder and Vice-Chair, Anne-Sophie Hermann, expressed gratitude for K92 Mining’s vital support.“Buk bilong Pikinini is incredibly grateful to K92 Mining for the opportunity to support literacy development in remote villages, where education for children and adults is greatly needed and will have a meaningful impact," Ms. Hermann said. "We are looking forward to the collaboration to provide high-quality, localized materials in both literacy and numeracy to foster a love of reading and learning for all.”The partnership extended into curriculum development from October 20–23 in Port Moresby, where K92’s Adult Literacy Program team collaborated with BbP to review existing frameworks and begin drafting structured, localized learning materials across all program levels.Divanna Umpao, Program Lead for K92 Mining’s Adult Literacy Program, noted that the joint efforts combine K92's on-the-ground experience with BbP's pedagogical expertise.“This partnership aims to develop practical, learner-centered, and culturally relevant teaching and learning materials that directly respond to the needs of our host communities,” Ms. Umpao stated.Moving forward, K92 Mining and BbP are actively exploring opportunities to establish permanent, community-based early childhood education services in Bilimoia, Unantu, Watarais, and surrounding communities.

Dr. Kone Sobi, Director of Medical Services at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), is urging the public to take proactive measures to protect their health against extreme heat exposure, respiratory risks, and hygiene-related illnesses during the ongoing El Niño period.This urgent advisory follows recent reports from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the National Weather Service highlighting increased sea surface temperatures across the Pacific Ocean and visible haze accumulating across the city."In light of recent environmental changes and rising temperatures across our region, we strongly advise members of the public to take simple, proactive steps to care for their health and protect their families," Dr. Sobi stated."Rising temperatures and atmospheric haze significantly increase the risk of heat stroke, respiratory complications, and viral or bacterial infections. To reduce these risks, we encourage everyone to strictly follow key precautionary measures."Dr. Sobi outlined the following critical health guidelines:• Limit Sunlight and Dust Exposure: Avoid prolonged, direct exposure to the sun and minimize time spent in dusty environments.• Use Face Masks in Public: Wear face masks when in open public areas to protect against airborne particles and haze.• Prioritize Hydration and Safe Water: Drink plenty of clean, safe water throughout the day to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke.• Maintain Strict Hand and Food Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before meals and after using the toilet. Avoid unhygienic food preparation and consumption practices to prevent waterborne and stomach infections.Dr. Sobi made a strong appeal to vulnerable groups, particularly individuals suffering from chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, severe allergies, or lung conditions, to take extra precautions during this time."If you or your family members begin to feel unwell or experience symptoms such as a fever, headache, or cough, it is important to stay hydrated, rest, and consider basic pain relief like Panadol," Dr. Sobi advised. "However, if symptoms persist, please do not delay in visiting your nearest clinic for a proper medical assessment and professional attention."

In the blink of an eye, a private jet plummeting 450 feet per second nosedived into a Florida roadway, bursting into flames and killing all nine people on board.“It was a cataclysmic plane crash,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said. “It looked like a missile going down.”The Learjet 60 was traveling from Austin, Texas, to the Bahamas on Sunday when it plunged from the sky, leaving a massive crater near passing cars in Palm Beach County, Florida. The National Transportation Safety Board said on Monday that one person on the ground had a leg injury. Officials initially said no injuries were reported on the ground.Authorities have not identified the nine people on board who were killed, but family members have identified eight of the victims.Adam Robinson, Helen Sharp, and their two children, Emma and Charlie Robinson, have been identified by family members as being victims, according to a family statement.CNN has also confirmed through family statements that Rachael Reed, Charmi Fehr and Anita Maria Cetina were on the plane.The family of 20-year-old Nathalia Gadelha Filgueiras identified her as the plane’s co-pilot.The NTSB, which will try to determine the cause of the crash, said investigators face significant challenges in piecing together what happened.“The biggest obstacle that we’re going to have is recovering the major wreckage from the impacted crater on the roadway,” NTSB Senior Air Safety Investigator Tim Monville said.In addition, “we do have some evidence that there was some breakup of the aircraft before impact. We’re still seeking to determine that,” NTSB Member Tom Chapman said. “We may find some parts of the aircraft some distance from the crash site.”While the cause of the tragedy remains unknown, air traffic radio captured a pilot’s voice as the plane plunged straight toward the ground.Before the crash, Filgueiras reported ice accumulating on the aircraft, with an outside air temperature of -47 degrees Celsius (-53 degrees Fahrenheit), as well as moderate turbulence that bounced the plane by up to 700 feet, according to a recording of air traffic control radio calls captured by LiveATC.net.But moments later, she shouted, “Mayday, mayday!” in an increasingly panicked voice.“We’re descending 10,000 feet per minute!” Filgueiras told the Miami Air Route Traffic Control Center.“We are in an overspeed condition descending 20,000 feet per minute,” she yelled. “We’re going to crash into the ground!”In reality, the jet plummeted 27,000 feet in one minute, just before flight tracking data was cut off, the website ADS-B Exchange shows.

More than 40 influential community leaders from across Southern Highlands Province, in all five electorates have completed a two-day election voter awareness workshop.The workshop was organized by the Community Coalition Against Corruption (CCAC), in partnership the Advancing PNG Women Leaders Network delivering a two-day Training of Trainers (TOT) workshop in Mendi, Southern Highlands for peaceful 2027 National General Election.In attendance were Local Level Government Councilors, pastors, head teachers, women leaders, youth representatives, including the Mendi Town Deputy Mayor, and the Chairman of the Southern Highlands Peace and Good Order Sector Committee.According to CCAC, the workshop equipped the 44 Southern Highlands Community Leaders with information on Election timelines, Limited Preferential Voting System (LPV) voting and counting process, enrollment process, and developing of community awareness plans to support voter awareness, voter roll verification, women's participation and youth engagement during the election period leading up to the 2027 National General Election. Chair of Transparency International PNG and CCAC Co-chair, Peter Aitsi, commended the full participation at the TOT Workshop. "When communities understand the purpose of elections and the roles and responsibilities of their elected MPs, democracy becomes stronger. Our goal is to ensure citizens are informed and the trust in the electoral process is restored.” said Mr. Aitsi.The leaders trained through this program will carry the message from Kutubu to Nipa, Kagua, Erave, Ialibu, Imbonggu and Mendi-Munihu in SHP.The Coalition is continuing its mission to inform, empower, and mobilize PNG communities in preparation for the 2027 National General Elections.

Australia is helping build the next generation of Papua New Guinea’s energy leaders through a graduate development program that supports young professionals in gaining the skills needed to deliver critical infrastructure.One of those emerging professionals is Edward Bare, a graduate engineer from the Kerowagi District in Simbu Province. Edward is currently gaining hands-on experience delivering energy infrastructure projects that improve access to reliable power for communities across PNG.“I wanted to understand how machines worked and what made them operate the way they did. I would take things apart and try to put them back together. As I grew up, I realised I enjoyed mathematics and physics, and I knew I wanted to pursue something technical,” Edward said.As a Project Coordinator for the Buka Solar Mini Grid Project, Edward is developing essential skills in project coordination, stakeholder engagement, site monitoring, and risk management. Working across different stages of project delivery has given him valuable insight into the planning, implementation, and management of infrastructure projects.“When work is well planned, implementation becomes much more efficient and effective. I have also learned the importance of clear and respectful communication when working with different teams and stakeholders,” he noted.For Edward, this experience is helping shape his long–term career ambitions. “Over the next three to four years, I want to continue developing my skills and experience, progress into a project manager role, and contribute to delivering infrastructure projects in Papua New Guinea,” he said.Australia remains committed to supporting a skilled Papua New Guinean workforce and strengthening local capacity in sectors that drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

The training provided practical skills in aerial photography to support intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) activities across Papua New Guinea’s vast maritime domain.Conducted under the longstanding PNG-Australia Alliance, the exercise introduced PNGDF personnel to specialized techniques for capturing high-quality intelligence imagery from aircraft in flight. Operating from PNGDF ATW PAC-750 aircraft, participants learned how to identify, track, and photograph vessels from the air while managing the unique challenges of capturing moving targets from a moving aerial platform.The training combined classroom instruction with practical flying activities. This approach allowed PNGDF personnel to directly apply their newly acquired skills during simulated aerial photography runs over vessels in the harbour.Second Lieutenant Rothman Spaiye highlighted the value of the exercise for operational reporting and surveillance tasks. “It’s very important for intelligence and reporting. Aerial imagery can help inform situational awareness and support the reporting of activity at sea,” Second Lieutenant Spaiye said.Unlike ground-based photography, aerial imagery requires meticulous preparation and precise timing. Personnel must work within a brief window of opportunity to identify and capture a target as the aircraft passes overhead.Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel worked side by side with their PNGDF counterparts to share specialist knowledge. Together, they increased familiarity with the equipment, refined target identification, and practiced techniques for capturing clear imagery across different maritime environments.This activity directly contributes to the PNGDF’s ongoing capability development while enhancing the technical skills of the personnel operating its aircraft.Exercise Kapa Pisin 2026 demonstrates the practical value of cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Australia. By sharing expertise and building interoperability, the initiative strengthens the enduring partnership between both nations and contributes to broader regional security.

The National Superannuation Fund Limited (Nasfund) is continuing to bring superannuation information and services closer to members through ongoing engagements with employers and churches. Recent visits to Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) and the Evangelical Church of Papua New Guinea (ECPNG) provided membership and contribution updates while raising awareness of retirement readiness.Recently, Nasfund’s Tony Deilala led a team on a visit to OTML at Kwalimu Haus in Port Moresby. During the visit, he shared encouraging data showing that a significant number of OTML employees have accumulated superannuation balances that place them in a strong position for a secure post-employment future."We commend OTML and its employees for their outstanding commitment to long-term financial security," said Mr. Deilala. "The data clearly demonstrates that when employers actively support superannuation and employees consistently make voluntary contributions, the growth in retirement savings is transformative. OTML members are living proof of how disciplined saving today creates lasting peace of mind for tomorrow."In his presentation, Mr. Deilala also urged members, particularly those stationed at the OTML site in Tabubil, to update their member detail update forms (MDUF) and nominate valid beneficiaries.Alongside its workplace engagements, Nasfund is reaching members through faith-based organizations. In a separate visit, its Hagen Branch team provided on-site client services to members of the Evangelical Church of Papua New Guinea and other church agencies in Tari and Hela Province.Nasfund Regional Team Leader for the Highlands Region, Mr. Pagel Yawani, noted that this marked their second engagement with the ECPNG.“We thank the ECPNG for inviting our team and for partnering with Nasfund,” he said, adding that such initiatives help members stay connected with their savings and build a stronger financial future for themselves and their families.Reflecting on these ongoing initiatives, Nasfund CEO Rajeev Sharma stated, “Whether we are engaging with members in their workplaces or through churches, our purpose is the same: to bring superannuation information and support closer to them. These engagements provide an opportunity for members to ask questions, understand their savings, and prepare for retirement.”Through these strategic partnerships with both the resource sector and religious institutions across PNG, Nasfund remains deeply committed to building financial literacy and long-term security for its nationwide membership.

SP Brewery has donated K10,000 to support the 2026 National Kenu and Kundu Festival, which will be held in Alotau from Friday, November 6, to Sunday, November 8.The festival will bring together communities, performers, and visitors to celebrate Milne Bay’s maritime traditions and cultural heritage. This year’s programme will also highlight sustainability and environmental conservation.SP Brewery representative Israel Kakat presented the sponsorship cheque to members of the festival committee.“SP Brewery is delighted to support initiatives that bring people together and create meaningful value for communities. Through our sponsorship, we aim to help showcase Papua New Guinea’s diverse culture, create connections and promote environmental awareness and conservation for the benefit of future generations,” Mr. Kakat said.The festival is expected to feature traditional performances, cultural exhibitions, arts and crafts displays, and other activities showcasing the traditions of Milne Bay Province.During the event, SP Brewery will promote responsible consumption and its anti-violence campaign, Join the Generation of Change. Festival attendees aged 18 and over are invited to visit the company’s booth, learn about the campaign, and make a pledge against violence in their communities.

The Motu Koita Rugby League Association will mark a significant milestone this Saturday when its inaugural Women’s Division grand final takes centre stage at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby.The Bese Eagles Women will take on the Porebada Bulldogs Women at 11am, with both sides competing for the first-ever Women’s Division premiership title in the association’s competition.The Bese Eagles head into the decider undefeated and will be looking to cap off an impressive season by claiming the historic title.Bese Eagles captain Jeriga Seona said she was proud of her team’s progress, crediting discipline and cooperation as key factors behind their success.“I am very proud of the girls and how far they have come. Most of the players I have fielded did not have previous experience in rugby league, but discipline, cooperation and attentiveness have been important in helping the team perform well,” she said.Seona brings valuable experience to the side, having previously played for the Hanuabada Hawks in the Port Moresby Rugby League competition before progressing to the Santos Cup with the Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers in 2024 and 2025.She said the team had been focusing on improving its ball-handling skills during preparations for Saturday's grand final, particularly to build confidence among players who are still developing their game.On the opposing side, Porebada Bulldogs Women captain Boio Gari said she was proud of her teammates for earning their place in the grand final and encouraged them to maintain their efforts.“I am proud of my teammates for their efforts, which have earned us a place in the grand final. I hope we maintain the same effort on Saturday, especially against an undefeated Bese side led by an experienced player,” Gari said.A MILESTONE FOR WOMEN’S RUGBY LEAGUEMotu Koita Rugby League Association President Aurthur Patrick said the introduction of the Women’s Division had been a long-standing ambition for the association, providing an opportunity for women from Motu Koita villages to participate in organised rugby league.“This has always been a topic of discussion. We have always wanted to include a Women’s Division so talents from our local Motu Koita villages could participate, and this year that dream came to fruition,” Patrick said.He said the association had faced challenges, particularly around sponsorship and resources, but the decision to introduce the division gained momentum following the association’s seventh grand final playoffs last year.Patrick said the association's patron, National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, had challenged the management to include a Women’s Division, reinforcing its commitment to creating opportunities for women in line with PNGRFL’s investment in the development of women’s rugby league across the country.He said the response had been encouraging, with a number of previously untapped talents coming forward to showcase their abilities throughout the regular season and into the finals.“One thing that keeps me going is creating a platform for girls in the villages to play rugby league and potentially secure a valuable future if they progress further in their playing journey,” he said.GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPETITIONNow heading into its eighth grand final, the Motu Koita Rugby League Association competition features 18 teams across the Under-20 and A-Grade Men’s divisions, with four teams competing in the inaugural Women’s Division.Patrick said the competition had continued to run smoothly, with clubs and players demonstrating respect and discipline throughout the season, while village communities had remained supportive, particularly during the finals.The association draws participation from several Motu Koita villages across the Central Province and National Capital District.Teams from the Hiri West area include Buria Reds from Lealea, Hiri Wests and Kou Roosters from Kouderika, Porebada Bulldogs and Kido, which joined the competition this year.In the National Capital District, participating villages include Kilakila, represented by Kauka Blacks; Mahuru Village, represented by Mahuru Koita Warriors; Baruni; Tatana; and Hanuabada.The association has also received an expression of interest from Gabagaba Gaigais in the Hiri East area, with the club indicating its intention to join the competition next season.To strengthen the standard and organisation of the competition, Patrick said management had decided to reduce the number of participating teams from 18 to 14 from next season.GRAND FINAL MATCH SCHEDULE AND TICKETSThree grand finals will be played at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium this Saturday, with the Women’s Division opening proceedings at 11am, followed by the Under-20 and A-Grade Men’s grand finals.The match schedule is as follows:Game 1 – Women’s Division (11:00am): Bese Eagles Women v Porebada Bulldogs WomenGame 2 – Under-20 Division (1:00pm): MGF Bloods v Mahuru Koita WarriorsGame 3 – A-Grade Men’s Division (3:00pm): Buria Reds v RH Pirates CowboysTickets will be available at the gate, with adults paying K5 and children under the age of 12 paying K2.GRAND FINAL PRIZE MONEYThe association has announced the following prize allocations for Saturday’s grand finals:Women’s Division: Winners receive the premiership cup and K4,000, while runners-up receive K2,000.Under-20 Men’s Division: Winners receive K6,000, while runners-up receive K3,000.A-Grade Men’s Division: Winners receive the premiership cup and K10,000, while runners-up receive K7,000.Patrick congratulated all clubs that have qualified for Saturday’s grand finals and encouraged supporters to turn out in numbers to support their respective teams in a friendly and respectful manner.He also acknowledged the association’s patron, Governor Powes Parkop, and its major sponsors for their continued support and contribution towards the successful delivery of the competition throughout the season.