The Ghost Mountain Expedition Project has transported solar power equipment to Dorobisoro village at the foot of Mt. Obree this week, marking a significant milestone in upgrading the rural clinic with electricity and network coverage. In a partnership with Central Governor Rufina Peter, the PNG Tribal Foundation announced the expansion of the expedition this week through the launch of these major infrastructure improvements. Located within the rugged Owen Stanley Range, the clinic had suffered from seventeen years of neglect. Since 2009, the facility operated without medical supplies, health workers, electricity, or running water. The recent flight into this historic region, noted as the 1942 crash-landing site for American soldiers, finally brought in essential medical supplies and two dedicated health workers, ensuring locals can now access healthcare with proper facilities. GT Bustin, President of the PNG Tribal Foundation, confirmed that the upgrade is currently underway. The installation of the solar power system and the establishment of a communications network are being led by expedition partner Peter Gamgee, author of In Search of the Flying Dutchmen. Mr. Gamgee traveled from Port Moresby to Dorobisoro to personally oversee the delivery of supplies and the technical setup. “Funding for the upgrade was raised by Mr. Gamgee’s community in Queensland, Australia and channeled through PNG Tribal Foundation Australia to support the project on the ground,” Mr. Bustin said. “Mr. Gamgee, who led the inaugural expedition in 2009, returns with a dual purpose of guiding trekkers and strengthening essential services in the remote village.” The Ghost Mountain Expedition is a signature tourism product initiated by the Tribal Foundation, designed to introduce international visitors to the culture and beauty of Papua New Guinea while delivering tangible services to communities along the trail. This year’s expedition is scheduled for October, with participants expected from the United States and Australia. The U.S. Embassy is also anticipated to take part in the trek. “We are grateful to Governor Rufina Peter for her continued support and look forward to welcoming a new group of trekkers this October,” Mr. Bustin added.

Australian Defence Force (ADF) researchers are working side by side with their Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) counterparts to address shared infectious disease challenges. As part of ‘Exercise No Sik Soljia 26’, researchers from the ADF Malaria and Infectious Disease Institute (ADFMIDI) are conducting two surveys alongside PNGDF personnel. This includes a health survey at Igam Barracks in Lae, Morobe province and an entomological (study of insects) survey at Moem Barracks in Wewak, East Sepik province. At Igam Barracks, the health survey is assessing the prevalence of insect borne diseases, including malaria, dengue fever and other bacterial infections, while also checking lifestyle-related health risks such as diabetes and heart disease within the barracks community. Two weeks into the three-week activity, the joint PNGDF and ADF team have enrolled 174 PNGDF members and 406 family members, with a further 250 school-aged children expected to participate. The team is supported by a mobile field laboratory, which enables diagnosis of conditions such as malaria, with results and treatment support provided daily to the Igam Barracks Medical Centre. Meanwhile at Moem Barracks in Wewak, a combined ADF, PNGDF and New Zealand Defence Force team is supporting disease prevention efforts by collecting and analyzing mosquito populations. The team is identifying mosquito species, infection rates and local transmission risks to help provide more targeted and effective mosquito control programs for military and civilian authorities. Researchers are also trying to find new ways to reduce the risk of mosquito borne diseases while soldiers conduct official PNGDF duties, including evaluation of insecticide treatments for Defence uniforms. Commanding Officer ADFMIDI, Lieutenant Colonel Brady McPherson, stated that Exercise No Sik Soljia, demonstrates the value of collaboration, trust and shared capability in safeguarding regional health and security for PNG and Australia. “This program has strengthened our shared understanding of infectious disease risks and enhanced the ability of both nations’ Defence Forces to protect their personnel and communities.” “Most importantly, it has forged enduring personal and professional connections that underpin the PNG-Australia Defence partnership.”

Prime Minister James Marape officially commissioned two major infrastructure projects in Bialla, Nakanai District, West New Britain Province on May 8th, 2026. This commissioning marks an important milestone in the government’s long-term vision to connect Papua New Guinea, strengthen service delivery, and unlock economic growth in rural regions. The projects include the new Nakanai District Headquarters Office Complex and the fully-sealed 10-kilometre Bamus–Noahu section of the New Britain Highway under the government’s flagship Connect PNG programme. Prime Minister Marape described these projects as representing far more than mere physical infrastructure. “These are investments in people, service delivery, connectivity, and the future of Papua New Guinea,” he said. “We are taking development into rural PNG where most of our people live.” “This office must not be an empty office,” he said. “This office must be a working office.” The Prime Minister first officially opened the K5 million Nakanai District Headquarters Office Complex, which will serve as the central administrative hub for the district. The complex is designed to house key government offices responsible for service delivery across the Hoskins, Bialla, and Mosa Local Level Government (LLG) areas, serving an estimated population of between 150, 000 and 160, 000 people. Prime Minister Marape stated that district offices must become active centres of development and service delivery. “Prime Ministers and politicians come and go, but public servants remain. You are already paid by the people. Now work for the people.” He also challenged district administrators, education officers, health officers, youth officers, community development officers, and village court officials to remain visible and active in serving citizens. In addition, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to decentralizing services and strengthening district-level administration so people in rural areas could access services closer to home. The Prime Minister then officially opened the newly-sealed 10-kilometre Bamus–Noahu section of the New Britain Highway. This K138 million project, constructed by China Railway Construction Engineering Group Co. Limited, represents the first completed phase of a 42-kilometre section currently under development. He described the Connect PNG Programme as one of the most important nation-building initiatives undertaken since Independence. “Connectivity must happen among our people,” he said. “Roads connect economies, people, and services.” The road has improved transportation, communication, market access, and access to essential services for rural communities. The road also supports the movement of agricultural produce including palm oil, copra, and balsa, which are among the region’s major economic drivers. The Prime Minister praised the leaders and people of West New Britain for building one of the nation's strongest agricultural economies. “I want to thank Governor Sasindran Muthuvel, past leaders, landowners, farmers, and workers for helping build a province that is showing PNG the way towards economic self-reliance.” Prime Minister Marape highlighted that the future Badi River bridge as a critical component needed to fully connect West and East New Britain, especially during periods of flooding. He also encouraged investors to continue expanding their operations while ensuring local communities participated fully in economic growth. “This island has beautiful mountains, rivers, beaches, forests, environment, and cultural diversity, and together, we can build a strong economy if we work together.” Meanwhile, the Prime Minister also described tourism as one of the country’s greatest untapped opportunities and stated that New Britain had enormous tourism potential because of its natural beauty and cultural diversity. “We are trying our best to build a better Papua New Guinea,” he said. “And together we will build a better future for our children and future generations.”

Preparations are now underway for the 2026 National Kenu & Kundu Festival, one of Papua New Guinea’s premier cultural celebrations, set to take place from November 6 to 8 in Alotau, Milne Bay Province. The National Kenu & Kundu Festival Committee announced this week that planning has officially commenced for the annual event, which is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across the country and overseas. Widely recognised as Milne Bay’s signature cultural festival, the Kenu & Kundu Festival showcases the province’s rich maritime traditions and diverse cultural heritage through canoe races, traditional dances, storytelling, and cultural exhibitions. The event plays an important role not only in preserving Milne Bay’s customs and identity, but also in supporting tourism development, stimulating local business activity, and creating income opportunities for artisans, performers, and small-scale vendors. Festival Chairman Habona Tasman has called on communities, businesses, government agencies, and development partners to support the upcoming event through sponsorships, fundraising initiatives, and in-kind contributions. Various fundraising activities will be hosted by the committee leading up to the festival to ensure the successful delivery of the event. He added that all sponsors and supporters will be formally recognised during and after the festival, with the organising committee committed to transparency and accountability throughout preparations. “Together we are one people, following one rhythm, sailing on one sea.”

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum has presented a new 40-horsepower outboard motor to local tour operator Simon Manuel of Mioko Ward in the Duke of York (DOY) Islands, as part of his Community Enrichment Support Program. The support initiative will assist communities across the province to establish and grow small business ventures while improving local economic opportunities. During the presentation, Governor Marum praised Mr. Manuel for his commitment to promoting tourism in the Duke of York Islands, emphasizing tourism as a key contributor to the province’s economic development. He said the new outboard motor will enhance transport services for tourists travelling to and from various tourism sites around the island, while also creating income-generating opportunities for the local community. Mr. Manuel thanked Governor Marum for his quick response to their request and ongoing support for local tourism operators. “This new motor will greatly improve our transportation services for tourists who regularly visit the island.” The outboard motor was purchased through funding from the Provincial Service Improvement Program (PSIP).

In partnership with the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) successfully carried out a Referee Instructors Course at the PNGFA Education Center in Lae, Morobe province, from May 4th-8th, 2026.Bringing together 24 referee instructors and accessors from Member Associations across Papua New Guinea, the five-day workshop is aimed at bolstering refereeing standards and strengthening development pathways nationwide. The program further aimed to support the continued growth and development of Member Association referee structures Participants included representatives from the newly recognized Alotau Soccer Association, with Muriel Bayagau and Gibson Tala attending the program, alongside Gordon Torovu and Terence Bando from the Wewak Soccer Association. While the program seeks to strengthen referee coaching and instructional skills, it also provided updates on the 2025/2026 Laws of the Game and modern refereeing expectations. Facilitation was led by Regional Referee Development Officer Ben Niso, assisted by FIFA Instructor and Head of Refereeing Department Jimmy Warai, Referee Development Officer Samol Minan, and Regional Fitness Instructor Kennedy Yambundimi. The initiative reflects the continued commitment of OFC and PNGFA to investing in referee education and raising officiating standards across all levels of football in Papua New Guinea.

The landscape of women’s football in Papua New Guinea took a significant leap forward this week as the first “This Is How We Football” (TIHWF) training workshop was successfully conducted at the PNGFA venue from May 6th-7th, 2026.The two-day intensive program, delivered through a powerful partnership between the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), was designed to do more than just teach drills—it was built to cultivate leaders. The TIHWF initiative is a core component of a broader mission to dismantle the social and cultural barriers that often prevent women and girls from participating in sport. By focusing on the creation of safe, inclusive, and empowering environments, the program ensures that football serves as a catalyst for personal and community development. “PNGFA welcomes this partnership with OFC,” the Association stated, following the event. “It is vital that we continue creating opportunities for women and girls to access and enjoy football at every level, from grassroots to elite play.” The workshop was facilitated by a team of seasoned experts dedicated to social responsibility and sports development: Christine Wamala Uru: PNGFA Social Responsibility Manager Matelita Vuokoso: OFC Women’s Football Program Officer Sonia Embahe: Just Play Development Officer (Assistant) Susan Watpore: Women’s Development Officer (Assistant) The curriculum went beyond the pitch, covering essential thematic areas such as life skills, gender identity, safeguarding, child protection, and monitoring and evaluation. This holistic approach ensures that the program is as much about character building as it is about athletic skill. The impact of the workshop will be felt immediately across the region. Participants are now certified to return to their respective districts to conduct specialized sessions for young girls aged 13–18. These newly minted mentors will play a crucial role in strengthening community engagement and providing a roadmap for the next generation of female footballers. This training marks yet another milestone in PNGFA’s long-term strategy to develop inclusive pathways. By investing in the people who lead the game, PNGFA and OFC are ensuring that the future of football in Papua New Guinea is not only bright but equitable.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) will have a new Board Chairman soon following the recent appointment of its new Director.Kumul Petroleum has advised of the transfer of its Board chairmanship from Mr. Gerea Aopi, MBE, to fellow director Mr. Isaac Lupari CBE GCL. Mr. Lupari will take over as KPHL Chairman starting 19 May. The transition process between the two directors has been ongoing mid-April to ensure a smooth changeover and leadership continuity.  The transition is required by law. Under the KPHL Act, directors must retire at age 72, and Chairman Aopi will reach this milestone on 18 May. He has formally notified the Trustee, Prime Minister Marape, that he will step down on that date. Chairman Gerea Aopi said, " I have been privileged to serve as Chairman of KPHL and extend my sincere appreciation to the Trustee, Prime Minister, James Marape for his confidence and support during a period of overwhelming challenges.  “Since taking office in the last quarter of 2025, my fellow directors and I have made strong progress — we have implemented strict cost containment and strengthened financial controls, refocused capital investment on core petroleum assets, restored governance, signed off on the 2022 audited accounts, and advanced major projects. “KPHL has been stabilized due to the resolve and commitment of the current Board. However, the work is far from finished, and am certain that Mr. Lupari will continue to progress the initiatives that we have started.” Aopi expressed. Mr. Lupari, in acknowledging Mr. Aopi, said, “Gerea’s vast experience and knowledge in the petroleum industry has contributed significantly to the ongoing organizational changes, and the Board thanks him for his leadership.”  “I’d also like to express my gratitude to the Trustee, Prime Minister, Chief James Marape for appointing me to the KPHL Board and having confidence in me to succeed as KPHL chairman.” He said Kumul Petroleum received another clean audit for 2022, extending its record of unqualified audit opinions since its establishment in 2014, attributing its completion to Mr. Aopi’s Chairmanship. “This is good news for Kumul Petroleum at this critical time when our main focus is preparing to take up equity in the forthcoming Papua LNG Project,” Mr. Lupari said.  Both men noted that the receipt of the 2022 audit, and its end-of-year balances, would fast track the finalization of the subsequent 2023 and 2024 audits before the end of the year.  Mr. Lupari stressed that KPHL remained committed to continuing to work closely with the Government, industry partners, and financiers to achieve sustainable growth and national prosperity.  KPHL acting managing director Dr Luke Liria expressed his gratitude for the privilege of having worked under the guidance of the outgoing chairman, Mr. Gerea Aopi.  “Over the past eight months, his leadership has been instrumental in steering our organization. Chairman Aopi prioritized both general and project governance, ensuring our operations are conducted with the utmost integrity and transparency. He said Mr. Gerea’s wisdom and experience have been invaluable to the organization over the past eight months, stating that his contributions have set up a strong foundation that will benefit the organization moving forward.  “We welcome Mr. Lupari, who brings many years of experience in the government sector. I look forward to continuing with Ambassador Lupari to grow and expand KPHL as a reputable national oil company in the nation and the region.” Kumul Petroleum remains a cornerstone in the development and safeguarding of PNG’s natural resources sector, whilst simultaneously contributing to achieving socio-economic goals through our nation-building projects.

Thirty-three finalists for the prestigious 2026 SP Sports Awards (SPSA) were officially announced yesterday in Port Moresby, marking a significant milestone in the lead-up to the country’s most celebrated sporting events.Chairman of the SP Sports Awards Selection Panel Mr. Warwick Vele, highlighted the strong response during the nomination process as he announced the finalists. “This year, we recorded an impressive level of interest and participation in the nomination process.” “A total of 261 nominations were received across all categories, with 181 submitted online and 81 in hard copy.” “The growth in online submissions reflects increased public awareness of the SP Sports Awards and greater confidence in the online nomination process.” “This increase shows that the SP Sports Awards continue to be recognised as a trusted and meaningful platform for celebrating sporting excellence in Papua New Guinea.” Meanwhile, Mr. Vele stated that Coca ‑Cola Europacific Partners PNG Junior Female Athlete of the Year category attracted the highest number of nominations this year. “A total of 30 nominations were received in this category, 15 online and 15 in hard copy, highlighting both the depth of emerging talent and the high level of competition among our junior female athletes during 2025.” “These nominations represented a wide range of sporting codes, including AFL, tennis, darts, swimming, and weightlifting, to name just a few.” “This is a clear indication of the growing diversity, strength, and growth of women’s sport in Papua New Guinea, particularly at development levels.” Mr. Vele emphasized that the vetting and selection process was conducted with the highest level of transparency and integrity. “The process is one we take very seriously. Each eligible nomination was carefully reviewed and discussed in detail, guided by strict criteria set for each award category to ensure a fair and transparent process.” “To ensure fairness, transparency, and integrity, the final vetting of all finalists was independently conducted by KPMG PNG.”

Emergency repair works are underway at the Aita Wet Crossing in Bougainville following severe flooding linked to Cyclone Maila, which disrupted access for surrounding communities.The restoration effort, supported by the Australian Government, aims to reconnect residents to essential services, including schools, health facilities, and local markets, while also improving the crossing’s resilience against future climate-related disasters. Floodwaters at the crossing have now been receded to safer levels, allowing limited four-wheel-drive access. In the meantime, authorities have established a temporary pedestrian crossing approximately 200 metres downstream to ensure communities can continue moving safely through the area. Work crews are currently redirecting the river away from the damaged section of the crossing to reduce pressure on the site and prevent further erosion. Teams on the ground are rebuilding the crossing and stabilizing the surrounding riverbanks to better withstand heavy rainfall and flooding in the future. Two excavators are being used during the operation, including an additional machine brought in to accelerate repair works and improve response times. The project is being delivered through the Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 in partnership with the Department of Works and Highways PNG and the Bougainville Department of Infrastructure and Utilities. As part of the broader initiative, a climate resilience and vulnerability assessment will also be conducted across Bougainville to help strengthen transport infrastructure against future disasters and changing weather patterns. Officials say contractors are working closely with local authorities and communities to respond quickly to changing river conditions and restore safer access as soon as possible. Once completed, the upgraded crossing is expected to provide more reliable transport access for residents, businesses, and service providers across the region. The Australian Government says its continued partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government reflects a shared commitment to improving transport infrastructure and strengthening community resilience.

NRL record try-scorer Alex Johnston says his decision to join the new Papua New Guinea franchise is driven by a deep sense of responsibility to his heritage and a desire to help shape the future of rugby league in the Pacific nation.Johnston, who is Kumul No. 294 and will become Player #002 for the upcoming PNG team, the Chiefs, described the move as more than a career decision, calling it a “duty and obligation” to represent his family and cultural roots. The winger, who has already been honoured with a statue at South Sydney Rabbitohs headquarters, will link up with fellow star Jarome Luai at the expansion club ahead of its entry into the NRL in 2028. “When the team got announced, I felt like I had to go over there just to represent my family and my nan as best I can,” Johnston said, referring to his grandmother who was born in Papua New Guinea’s Sandaun Province. Johnston said his connection to Papua New Guinea runs deep, strengthened through his appearances for the Kumuls and his community work in the country, which he visits whenever possible. “I love it when I go over there—the atmosphere, the community, and how much rugby league means to them,” he said. “It honestly gives people something to look forward to.” The star winger believes the introduction of a PNG-based NRL team will have a major social impact, uniting communities, and inspiring young players across the country.  “If everyone can unite behind a team each week, it can bring people together and create something positive,” he said. “It can drive peace, harmony, and give people hope.” Johnston will relocate to Port Moresby with his wife and children ahead of the club’s development phase, marking a major personal and professional transition after a one-club NRL career with South Sydney. Despite the change, Johnston said he had the full support of his long-time club and coach Wayne Bennett and remains excited about the opportunity to help build a new sporting legacy. “It was a big decision, but with PNG coming into the NRL, it felt like it was meant to be,” he said. He also backed the long-term vision of the Chiefs to develop local talent and eventually build a squad made up largely of Papua New Guinean players. “I know the talent that’s there. A lot of those boys could definitely play in the NRL system,” he said. “It’s going to give young kids something to strive for.” Johnston said he expects huge passion and atmosphere when the team eventually plays its first home games, based on his previous experiences representing the Kumuls. “The first game will be crazy. The love for rugby league over there is unbelievable,” he said. Looking ahead, Johnston said his focus is not just on performance, but on helping inspire long-term change through the sport in Papua New Guinea. “If we’re driving messages as a PNG Chief, and we can make a difference in people’s lives, then that’s what it’s about,” he said.

Prime Minister James Marape has called for stronger partnerships with major Chinese energy companies as part of Papua New Guinea’s long-term transition toward clean energy and electric transportation.During the final day of his official visit to Shenzhen, Prime Minister Marape met with executives from Shenzhen Energy and BYD to discuss investment opportunities in renewable energy, battery technology, and electric vehicle manufacturing. The PM said Papua New Guinea has the natural resources needed to become a major clean energy producer in the region. “We offer clean energy opportunities that can help promote energy security for Papua New Guinea, China, and the wider world,” PM Marape said. At Shenzhen Energy, the PM explored technologies used in renewable power generation and proposed future collaboration using PNG’s hydro, solar, and geothermal resources. He also floated the idea of developing battery storage systems capable of exporting clean energy solutions internationally. During discussions with BYD, one of the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturers, Marape proposed positioning Papua New Guinea as both an energy supplier and a potential manufacturing base for electric vehicles. “If we can transition away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles over the next decade, we will be solving a major part of the global climate challenge,” he stated. The Prime Minister linked the push for renewable energy to the growing impacts of climate change already being experienced in Milne Bay Province, including rising sea levels and changing weather patterns following Cyclone Maila. “We only have one planet, and we need solution creators,” he said. PM Marape assured investors that PNG remains open for business, highlighting the country’s stable legal system, long-standing investment history, and commitment to the “One China” policy since 1976. He also revealed growing local demand for electric vehicles, noting that a Papua New Guinean businessman has already placed an order for 500 BYD vehicles, with the first shipment expected to arrive this week. The PM concluded by inviting both companies to enter into formal agreements with Papua New Guinea to support long-term clean energy development and the nationwide transition to electric vehicles. “This partnership can help eliminate carbon footprints, strengthen energy security, and secure a cleaner future for generations to come,” Marape said.