PNG Haus Bung

Vodafone has established a new retail store at the Chascorp Business Centre in Alotau town in Milne Bay that will be opened on Wednesday, 4th November.The new store marks an exciting step in Vodafone’s commitment to making connectivity, technology and customer support more accessible to communities across Papua New Guinea.Customers can discover mobile devices of popular brands such as Samsung, Smarti, TCL, and Anya, discover new technology, and receive assistance with their connectivity needs.Vodafone PR Manager, Charmaine ToRobert stated that for Vodafone, the opening is about more than establishing another retail location but building stronger relations with the people.“It is an opportunity to strengthen relationships with the people of Milne Bay, create a more accessible customer experience and help more individuals, families and businesses stay connected to the people and opportunities that matter most.”“We are delighted to bring Vodafone closer to the people of Alotau. Connectivity is about more than making calls or accessing the internet; it is about keeping families connected, helping businesses grow and opening doors to new opportunities. We want every customer who walks through our doors to feel welcome, valued, and confident that we are here to support their needs. This new store is our way of building stronger connections with the Alotau community, and we look forward to being part of its journey forward,” he said.Vodafone invites the Alotau community to visit its new store at the Chascorp Business Centre on 4th November to explore the wide range of technology products and services offered.

Families in parts of Markham District are facing growing food and water shortages as prolonged dry weather destroys food gardens, reduces water supplies and threatens the livelihoods of rural communities.The impact is being felt particularly in Umi and Atzera Local Level Governments, where many families depend on subsistence farming for their daily food.Food crops are drying up, water sources are declining and households are struggling to find enough food to feed their children.The situation is also affecting education, with some children reportedly attending school without lunch. Some schools have had to dismiss students as early as 2pm because children have no food to eat during the day.For families who depend on their gardens, the loss of crops means fewer meals and increasing pressure to provide for their households.Cocoa farmers are also facing difficulties as prolonged dry conditions threaten cocoa production, putting an important source of income at risk.Communities in Onga-Waffa LLG are also experiencing the effects of the dry spell, raising wider concerns about food security across the district.The affected areas include Umi LLG, which has 20 wards, Atzera LLG with 21 wards and Onga-Waffa LLG with 13 wards.With gardens drying up and water becoming increasingly difficult to access, communities are facing challenges that extend beyond food shortages, including concerns about health, children's education and household livelihoods.Local communities are calling for urgent assistance from the Markham District Development Authority, Morobe Provincial Government, local-level governments, disaster authorities and development partners.The requested assistance includes emergency food supplies, clean drinking water, medical support and agricultural assistance to help affected families and farmers cope with the prolonged dry conditions.Concerns have also been raised about delays in food relief, with ward councillors reportedly having submitted lists of affected people to the district authority while communities continue waiting for assistance.The situation puts to light the vulnerability of rural communities that rely heavily on rain-dependent gardens and agricultural activities for food and income.As the dry spell continues, access to food and safe drinking water remains a major concern for families across the affected parts of Markham District.

The recent developments at the country’s premier university have got the prime minister rattled, prompting him to call for the resignation of the Chancellor. Prime Minister James Marape has called on the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Chancellor Sir Robert Igara to resign following the departure of Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Findlay, describing the circumstances surrounding his resignation as deeply disturbing and a serious setback for the country’s premier university. Prime Minister Marape expressed sadness and disappointment after Professor Findlay, who had served UPNG for 15 months, announced his resignation with immediate effect on Monday, 2 November 2026, citing persistent bullying, belittling and disrespect from Sir Robert, irreconcilable differences over university governance, and threats to his personal safety. “It is saddening to see one of the great lights of university administration in our country walking away because he felt bullied and intimidated within a structure that was supposed to protect him and promote diplomacy, cooperation and coexistence,” Prime Minister Marape said. “The University Council, Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and university management must understand and respect their respective roles and responsibilities. Unfortunately, we have reached a point where a very good Vice-Chancellor, who brought renewed administrative leadership to UPNG, has left under deeply concerning circumstances.” In his resignation letter, Professor Findlay outlined significant improvements achieved during his tenure, including financial reforms, strengthened academic governance, improved audit compliance, international university partnerships, expanded internet capacity, and the development of new academic programmes. The Prime Minister noted that the July 2026 Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) post-audit report had recognised substantial improvements at UPNG, while Professor Findlay’s independent 12-month performance review assessed his performance as exceeding expectations. Professor Findlay also stated that his relationship with Sir Robert had deteriorated because of fundamentally different views on university governance, culminating in what he described as unacceptable conduct at a Special Council Meeting on 28 October 2026. The former Vice-Chancellor further revealed that he had already left Papua New Guinea following direct threats against his personal safety.Prime Minister Marape then called directly on Sir Robert to step aside in the interests of restoring public confidence in UPNG. “I make this call with great reluctance because Sir Robert Igara is a distinguished Papua New Guinean who has contributed significantly to our nation’s development,” he said. “However, if the Vice-Chancellor has resigned under these circumstances, then I believe the Chancellor should also do the honourable thing and resign.

The Prime Minister (PM) while welcoming a new political party, is urging citizens to vote on merit rather than tribal loyalties, family connections as the 2027 National General Election approaches.According to a press statement, PM Marape commends International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru on his launch of the Nesenel Unity Pati (NUP), while calling for greater political stability and constitutional reforms to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s democracy and economic development.PM Marape says Minister Maru, a third-term Member of Parliament and experienced national leader, had every constitutional right to establish a political party under Section 47 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of assembly and association. “I commend Minister Maru for his leadership and initiative. He has been a valued member of our coalition government, and Pangu Pati welcomes his new party into the political landscape,” he says.Marape says Pangu Pati shared important policy priorities with Minister Maru’s party, particularly economic independence, downstream processing, resource mobilisation and special economic zones. “These are areas where we share common ground, and we look forward to continuing our working partnership,” he says.Speaking at the party’s fundraising launch, Marape stated that political stability was essential for sustained economic growth. He says Papua New Guinea experienced 12 governments and six prime ministers between 1975 and 2002, when the economy grew from approximately K2 billion to K17 billion.By comparison, he says, the economy expanded from K17 billion in 2002 to K46 billion in 2011 under Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, reaching K79 billion in 2019 under former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill.“We are now approaching a K140 billion economy in 2026. Political stability brings policy stability, which encourages investment, economic growth and development,” Marape says.He proposed renewed national discussion on constitutional reforms that could allow Papua New Guineans to directly elect their Prime Minister, rather than leaving the decision entirely to Members of Parliament. “The relationship between the legislature and executive has sometimes created political instability. We must seriously consider whether the people themselves should directly elect their Prime Minister,” he says. Marape suggests that the proposal could be examined during the next parliamentary term, with a view towards possible implementation by the 2032 National General Election. He says safeguards, including term limits and constitutional checks and balances, would be essential to prevent excessive concentration of power. “The prime ministership is not the birthright of any individual or political party. Our people must vote for leaders based on their integrity, competence, policies and ability to deliver,” he says.“Do not vote because someone is your relative or because you have been offered a plate of food. Vote for the leaders and parties you believe can build a better Papua New Guinea.”PM Marape reaffirmed Pangu Pati’s commitment to its coalition partners, saying the party would seek continued cooperation after the 2027 National General Election, regardless of which coalition partner received the invitation to form government.He concludes by wishing Minister Maru and his party every success. “Our shared responsibility is to maintain political stability, strengthen our democracy and build an economically independent Papua New Guinea for future generations,” Marape says.

Bavaroko Junior High School in Port Moresby has introduced a new policy and Welfare Committee to strengthen child protection and promote a safer learning environment for students and staff.The school recently launched its Preventing Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH) Policy with support from the Australian Government and Equal Playing Field (EPF).The policy sets clear standards of behaviour for teachers and staff, outlines professional and ethical responsibilities, and strengthens protection against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment.It also helps students understand their rights and personal safety, while providing confidential ways to report concerns and access support.A newly established Welfare Committee will oversee the implementation of the policy and serve as a confidential contact point for students and staff seeking advice or assistance.The policy was formally launched by Bavaroko Junior High School Principal, Mr Simon Kayaka, and EPF Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Ms Jacqui Joseph.Speaking at the launch, Ms Joseph said creating a safe learning environment was a promise to every student and staff member.“It is our solemn promise to every student and staff member who walks through our gates.”Head Teacher (Primary School), Ms Goru, also acknowledged the partnership and reaffirmed the school's commitment to providing a safe, respectful and positive environment for its school community.

Students at Mugil Primary School are returning to normal school attendance following the completion of the replacement Mugil Bridge in Madang Province.The bridge provides a vital transport link for students travelling to school, as well as communities across Madang, Sumkar, Bogia and Middle Ramu districts.Mugil Primary School Head Teacher, Mr Alphonse Bass, said school attendance dropped when the old bridge was closed, as it was the only access route for students.“The only access for students to school is the Mugil bridge.”“When it was closed, school attendance dropped. When the bridge was fully completed, school attendance returned to normal.”The new bridge, delivered by Australia in partnership with the Department of Works and Highways, provides a safer and more reliable connection for more than 400,000 people.Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers said reliable infrastructure helps children attend school safely and consistently, keeping them connected to education and future opportunities.“Through the PNG-Australia Partnership, Australia is proud to support infrastructure that helps children get to school safely and consistently.”Beyond education, the bridge also improves access to health services, markets and economic opportunities for local communities.Since 2024, Australia has invested K23.5 million in maintaining the Northern Coastal Highway, while 12 new contracts are underway for seawall construction, road maintenance, drainage and resealing works.

Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) through its continuous engagement with members, employers and businesses, welcomed DNK Limited, a resident business based in Buin in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) as a new employer member.NSL has recently expanded through local partnerships across business centres in AROB, in efforts to ensure financial security, employment, and retirement savings for citizens as the region considers its future, while ensuring continued access to superannuation services regardless of upcoming administrative changes.DNK Limited and Ideal Hardware based in Arawa are also progressing their applications to become approved Housing Advance Suppliers for NSL Members. Subject to approval and completion of onboarding, their services are expected to commence within the months to come.Meanwhile, another Buin-based establishment, Seikei Limited, has reaffirmed its position as an existing NSL Housing Advance supplier and is progressing its registration to become a contributing employer with the fund.These partnerships will provide members with more options to source building materials locally when using their housing advance benefits, helping reduce the need to transport materials from other centres.NSL congratulated DNK Limited on joining the Fund and acknowledged Seikei Limited’s continued partnership.“Having local businesses work with NSL creates more opportunities for our members and strengthens our relationships with the communities we serve. We encourage more businesses across Bougainville and throughout the country to partner with NSL, meet their superannuation obligations and help their employees prepare for a secure retirement,” NSL said.

The PNG Barramundis have ended their ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup (CWC) Challenge League A campaign with an 88-run defeat to hosts Kenya at the Nairobi Gymkhana Club Ground, yesterday (Saturday 31 October).Kenya posted 230 for seven in 38 overs before bowling PNG out for 142 in 30.1 overs, securing an 88-run victory in the final match of the tournament.Chasing 231 for victory, PNG made a steady start through opening batter Tony Ura, who scored 30 off 33 deliveries, including five boundaries.However, Kenya's bowlers applied pressure through the middle order, with wickets falling at regular intervals to restrict PNG's run chase.Captain Assadola Vala top-scored for PNG with 42 off 40 deliveries, hitting five boundaries, while Patrick Nou contributed 18 off 26 balls.John Kariko provided a late contribution with 14 off just eight deliveries, including a six, while Sese Bau scored 13 and Lega Siaka added 12.Kenya's bowling attack was led by Shem Ngoche and Vraj Patel, who claimed three wickets each, while Francis Mutua took two wickets.Earlier, Kenya set the target after scoring 230 for seven from their allotted 38 overs, with Francis Mutua named Player of the Match for his contribution of 40 runs off 29 deliveries and two wickets for 17 runs.The result brings the Barramundis' ICC CWC Challenge League A campaign to a close in Kenya.Cricket PNG acknowledges the efforts of the players and team management throughout the tournament and thanks its supporters for their continued backing of the PNG Barramundis as they represent PNG on the international stage.

The security situation at Rainbow and Gerehu is now under control, though atmosphere remains tense. Police personnel maintain a strong, visible presence at the scene to deter any further disruptions.National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province Commander, Benjamin Turi, personally inspected the area this morning and issued strict directives to active police units to ensure no further violence or unrest arises.As part of the active investigation, Commander Turi has directed the Homicide Unit to establish immediate contact with the relatives of the deceased individual from East Sepik Province. Relatives are requested to provide formal details regarding the victim and identify individuals who were present at the Rainbow scene. This information will assist investigators in gathering critical witness statements, connecting forensic evidence, and ensuring those responsible are swiftly arrested and charged.In light of the incident, police management reiterated that street vending anywhere in the city remains completely illegal. Authorities are urging the public to reject illegal street vending entirely, noting that unauthorized public gatherings in these informal markets create volatile environments that compromise public safety and restrict the free movement of innocent citizens.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has clarified its US$1.1 billion funding plan for the State’s 22.5% equity participation in the Papua LNG Project. Approved by the National Executive Council (NEC), the strategy combines domestic borrowing with cash flow from KPHL’s existing PNG LNG Project investment. The plan requires no direct allocation from the National Budget.KPHL Chairman, Ambassador Isaac Lupari, emphasized that public discussions must separate KPHL’s equity funding obligations from the broader, total financing required for the entire Papua LNG Project."KPHL is financing the State’s participation through its own commercial resources and domestic lenders. The US$1.1 billion package supports our equity commitment; it is not the total financing requirement for the Papua LNG Project," Chairman Lupari stated.Chairman Lupari broke down the US$1.1 billion equity funding package into two distinct components:• US$300 million: Provided by domestic lenders through a syndicated loan arranged by Bank South Pacific (BSP).• US$800 million: Generated by KPHL’s 15.1% interest in the existing PNG LNG Project over the 2026–2032 construction window."We will use these funds progressively to meet our share of project costs as cash calls fall due," Lupari explained. "The US$800 million will be generated over that construction period. We are not saying the full amount is held in cash today. This is a highly efficient, lower-cost approach. We have already secured US$180 million ready for our first cash call following the Final Investment Decision (FID)."By utilizing KPHL’s internal cash flows and local borrowing, the plan completely avoids direct National Budget drawdowns. This protects the State's budget capacity for critical public sectors like health, education, and infrastructure.Furthermore, the framework prevents triggering the World Bank’s negative pledge requirements and limits financial recourse to the State. Lender recourse and asset security will be strictly governed by agreed financing documents.KPHL will maintain its long-term dividend commitments to the Government. However, the company noted that financial support to the state budget will be minimal during the heavy construction phase, as KPHL prioritizes project funding and debt service.Chairman Lupari projected that the economic benefits of the Papua LNG Project will roll out in clear stages:• During Construction: Local spending will directly support wages for Papua New Guinean workers and drive revenues for domestic contractors and suppliers.• During Production: LNG export sales will inject vital foreign exchange earnings into the economy. The State will receive direct inflows via taxes, royalties, and long-term investment returns from KPHL’s 22.5% stake."These benefits will build over time," Lupari noted. "Their value and timing depend on reaching FID, successful construction, operational performance, global LNG prices, and debt repayments.""For the first time in our nation's history, the Government, through KPHL, is financing the State’s participation in a world-scale resource project through purely domestic channels," Chairman Lupari said. He commended Prime Minister Hon. James Marape and the Government for their leadership in securing this milestone. "Our responsibility is to turn petroleum ownership into sustainable value for Papua New Guineans through clear financing, careful cash management, and strong governance."KPHL welcomes factual public discourse but urged leaders to exercise responsibility. Inaccurate commentary risks undermining international partner confidence and future national financing efforts.

Hela Governor Hon. Philip Aja Undialu has announced a sweeping public health and food security intervention, marked by the arrival of a 40-foot shipping container in Tari carrying 2,200 advanced 28-litre water purifiers alongside a nearly K25 million food relief initiative.The Hela Provincial Government will systematically distribute up to four purification units to each of the province’s approximately 300 council wards. Specialized allocations are also designated for hospitals, rural health centres, schools, churches, and mission stations. A baseline allocation of four units per ward will produce 112 litres of clean drinking water daily—the equivalent of 187 standard 600ml bottles—significantly mitigating waterborne health risks."Clean drinking water must not be a privilege reserved for towns; our villages deserve the same access," Governor Undialu stated. "We cannot continue watching our people consume whatever untreated river and stream water is available without taking practical action. This investment directly addresses public health vulnerabilities across our rural communities."The deployed purification units utilize a rigorous three-stage filtration system consisting of ceramic, activated carbon, and mineral components to ensure safety and quality.This decentralized distribution runs in tandem with the province's ongoing critical infrastructure works, where deep borehole drilling operations in Tari, Komo, and Koroba have successfully exceeded 200 metres at each site. While drilling operations are temporarily paused awaiting a supplementary shipment of drilling pipes to replace exhausted supplies, Governor Undialu noted that the purifiers provide an immediate solution to fill the geographic gaps that a centralized 30-location borehole programme cannot instantly reach.Addressing broader regional hardships, Governor Undialu also unveiled a joint K25 million food assistance programme executed in partnership between the Hela Provincial Government and the province's four District Development Authorities (DDAs). Comprehensive community data collection has been completed and consolidated. Supplier quotations have been secured, and procurement protocols are actively progressing to ensure that rice and essential food supplies directly reach local communities within November 2026.Governor Undialu issued a strong appeal to ward councillors, church congregations, educators, and local leaders to safeguard the purifiers as communal property. He emphasized that the allocation must be managed with absolute transparency and without discrimination along family, clan, tribal, or political lines."Disasters affect everyone, and these facilities are for everyone," Governor Undialu affirmed. "We must learn to share, protect our infrastructure, and look after one another. These parallel water and food initiatives reflect our administration's unyielding commitment to basic services, public health, and long-term community well-being.

The Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, Hon. John Kaupa, made a special official visit to the Mauberema Ecotourism Nature Conservation Education Research and Training Center (MENCERTC) in Dinima, Sinesine-Yongomugl District, Simbu Province recently.Minister Kaupa was previously invited to attend the 7th Mauberema Show and 10th Anniversary Celebrations but was unable to do so due to prior official commitments in the Western Highlands Province.Fulfilling his promise to the community, Minister Kaupa—accompanied by First Assistant Secretary Mr. Jack Ninkama and a high-level delegation—conducted a comprehensive special tour of the Mauberema conservation site.High-level discussions during the tour focused on the future of conservation, climate change mitigation, and the expansion of community-based eco-tourism within Simbu Province.Mauberema is widely recognized as one of Simbu's premier eco-tourism and conservation initiatives, playing a vital regional role in promoting environmental protection, research, and cultural preservation.