PNG Haus Bung

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has successfully airlifted 41 tonnes of emergency relief supplies to Tabubil to support local communities severely impacted by a prolonged El Niño-induced drought in the Western Province.The major logistics operation was completed over three days using the company’s chartered Hercules cargo aircraft, with the final delivery arriving this morning.The relief delivery is funded through a K15 million allocation specifically dedicated to Western Province, which is part of Ok Tedi’s larger K50 million El Niño Relief Fund.Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit confirmed the successful deployment of the aircraft, noting that the company prioritized the relief operation despite facing its own operational challenges caused by the severe weather patterns."Ok Tedi recognises the immense challenges facing our drought-affected communities, particularly as the company itself is also experiencing the impacts of El Niño," Mr. Ilimbit said. "Making our chartered aircraft available for these relief operations ensures that essential, life-saving supplies directly reach the communities that need assistance the most."OTML is actively collaborating with government agencies, humanitarian stakeholders, and local leadership to coordinate the ongoing distribution of the aid across the region. The company stated it will continue to balance its community support commitments with the safety, efficiency, and continuity of its mining operations.

Papua New Guinea were dismissed for 119 in 39.3 overs after Kuwait’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings.Kuwait made an early breakthrough when Yasin Patel removed wicketkeeper Tony Ura for a duck. Doko Rupa and Sese Bau steadied PNG with a 36-run partnership, but wickets fell regularly after Bau was dismissed for 20.Patel led Kuwait’s attack with 4 for 24 from 10 overs, while Nimish Lathief also claimed four wickets, conceding 30 runs in 9.3 overs. Shiraz Khan and Meet Bhavsar took one wicket apiece.Aue Oru top-scored for PNG with 25, while John Kariko added 22 and Lega Siaka made 18. Their efforts offered some resistance, but PNG slipped from 56 for 2 to 60 for 7 before Oru and Kariko helped lift the total.PNG’s innings ended in the 40th over when Kariko was caught, leaving Semo Kamea unbeaten on 0. Kuwait’s disciplined bowling and regular wickets restricted the total to 119.Kuwait openers Clinto Anto and Meet Bhavsar led the chase with an unbeaten 123-run partnership. Anto struck 76 not out from 67 balls, hitting seven fours and four sixes, while Bhavsar finished on 44 not out from 62 deliveries, including five boundaries.PNG’s bowlers were unable to break through, with none of the six used claiming a wicket. John Kariko was the most economical, conceding 33 runs in 8.3 overs.Kuwait chased down the target without losing a wicket, reaching 123 in 21.3 overs. PNG’s bowlers were unable to break the opening partnership.The Barramundis will aim to finish their campaign strongly when they face tournament hosts Kenya on Saturday, 31 October.

Commissioner of Police David Manning has commended proactive cooperation between West New Britain provincial police command and local authorities to improve law and order outcomes across West New Britain.The Commissioner's comments followed a declaration of a Fighting Zone in Kimbe by the West New Britain Provincial Peace and Good Order Committee. The declaration is to clarify that communities will not tolerate violent offences by youth, and that community safety is the priority of Police and communities.Police are supporting the declaration with measured, proactive operations in response to armed violence in recent weeks."The law provides tools to prevent violent fighting and ensure that communities can live in peace and harmony. The declaration of a fighting zone is one such tool." Commissioner Manning said."The West New Britain provincial commands, support by national specialist policing resources, are working to bring this lawlessness to an end through a measured response that puts the safety of residents first."Deputy Commissioner of Police (Regional Operations), Samson Kua, confirmed that police operations were undertaken early Thursday morning, to apprehend offenders who had discharged firearms at police."At dawn this morning, police raided houses in search of suspects," Deputy Commissioner Kua said."During the operation, firearms were discharged at Police and one offender was injured. Operations are continuing to locate and apprehend the suspects.”“Additional raids will be conducted, as we locate and arrest those responsible for violent offences.”Manning added that the Police are focused on preventing further armed violence and protecting residents, with any use of force guided by the threat faced and the safety of people in the area.Commissioner Manning said community leaders had responded positively to police engagement and wanted peace to be restored."The willingness of community members to help secure the surrender of weapons and wanted persons provides a basis for cooperation, with follow-through now essential to improving safety.”"Police have been explaining the Fighting Zone declaration to communities and discussing with their leaders how they can help prevent further violence.”Those discussions focus on practical steps in helping to bring young men under control, securing the surrender of weapons and cooperating with police in the surrender of wanted persons and other suspects."The National Gun Amnesty provides an opportunity to surrender guns. Communities have indicated their willingness to assist, and we now look to them to put those commitments into action.”"Measured police operations, supported by provincial authorities and active community cooperation, are how we work together to restore peace and build lasting safety."

Papua New Guinea can now have specialized cancer specialist after Training Institute for Allied Health was officially opened by Secretary for Health Mr. Pascoe Kase in Port Moresby earlier this week.The institute was established through a partnership between Flowtint Group and Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) to support specialised training for the hospital’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre and strengthen the country’s cancer workforce.Mr. Kase applauded the partnership and acknowledged the high standard of the facility, noting that the Health Department would ensure all required regulatory and compliance processes were met.Flowtint Group Managing Director Dr. Carl Adams said the institute would support the delivery of world-class cancer services through advanced technology and specialised workforce training.PMGH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Paki Molumi congratulated the first group of participants, the hospital’s Radiation Oncology team, who commenced training in the ARIA Oncology Information System ahead of the institute’s official opening.Dr. Molumi said PMGH had invested in training medical physicists, radiation therapists, nurses and other specialists through international institutions and partnerships. The institute would also support specialised clinical oncology, pediatric oncology, medical physics and oncology nursing training.He said the facility would help build local expertise, improve access to cancer treatment, reduce the need for Papua New Guineans to seek treatment overseas and potentially support medical tourism from Pacific Island countries.Dr. Molumi thanked the Government for its investment and Flowtint Group for its continued partnership in delivering the country’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre and developing the workforce needed to operate it.

Kina Bank has come to the assistance of City Mission, providing support to ensure the organization continues to serve the unfortunate ones in the community.City Mission is a Christian organisation that operates as a non- profit and dedicated to spreading the love of God and meeting human needs through various programs and activities.Kina Bank’s donation of appliances and equipment to City Mission, demonstrates its commitment to serving communities.Led by the Operations team, a range of essential items including food, drinks, clothing, home appliances, garden tools and a celebratory cake was donated to support City Mission's ongoing work caring for the poor and needy in communities across Papua New Guinea.The initiative was undertaken as part of the team's Corporate Social Responsibility activities and reflects Kina Bank's commitment to creating positive change and supporting communities where help is most needed.The donation was received by Sebastian Hagg, Safety and Vocational Training Manager at City Mission, who expressed his gratitude to the Bank and its employees for their generosity."We are thankful to have organisations like Kina Bank supporting our mission. Initiatives such as this help us continue operating and caring for those who are in need," Mr. Hagg said.Speaking during the handover, Kina Bank Chief Operating Officer (COO) Rina Antonio-Jang thanked both the Operations Team and City Mission for their warm welcome and partnership."Supporting our communities is an important part of Kina Bank's strategy and values. For this quarter, the Operations Team selected City Mission as a way of demonstrating our commitment to serving communities and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most," the COO said.The donation was made possible through the generosity of staff who raised funds through various fundraising activities and also contributed personally towards the purchase of the items.The visit provided an opportunity for team members to engage directly with the organisation and learn more about the vital role City Mission plays in supporting vulnerable individuals and families.

Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu OBE, has announced a landmark initiative to transform the nation’s Public Service through the progressive adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI).  Speaking at the third Public Service ICT Steering Committee Meeting of 2026 at the Melanesian Haus in Port Moresby, Chief Secretary Pomaleu outlined a strategic roadmap designed to fulfil the Prime Minister’s vision for an AI-driven Government.  The initiative aims to significantly enhance productivity, transparency, and service delivery across all levels of public administration. Chief Secretary Pomaleu said the goal is to translate the National Government’s vision into practical improvements for Public Servants to use to serve the people of Papua New Guinea more effectively. Meanwhile, the Department of the Prime Minister is piloting GovAoS, an AI-native productivity platform, hence the National Government is intending to scale GovAoS to the Whole-of Government particularly, empowering them to advance with digital tools. “The Government plans to introduce AI Agents to support officers in their daily tasks, further boosting efficiency and improving the quality of service provided to citizens,” he said. The Chief Secretary emphasized that the success of this digital transformation relies on strong leadership and internal coordination.  Further, he has called upon Departmental Heads to lead the transition within their respective agencies and remain accountable for results. 

Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) President and Minister responsible for Mining and Petroleum, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, has extended his warmest congratulations to the leaders, clan chiefs, and people of the Kongara Constituency in Central Bougainville following the commencement of the first mineral drilling at the EL02 exploration site last week.President Toroama visited the EL02 site to personally witness the historic launch of drilling operations conducted by Island Passage Exploration Limited (IPX) in partnership with local landowner company Isina Resource Holdings Limited. The event marks a significant milestone for Bougainville’s mineral exploration sector, occurring approximately 60 years after the initial exploration drills at Panguna.The President expressed profound gratitude to the Kongara leaders for granting the necessary regulatory and social approvals, allowing the joint venture to commence work after years of anticipation.“I want to make a special acknowledgment to all the leaders and clan chiefs," President Toroama said. "You are the ones who have given the approval for Island Passage and Isina Holdings to carry out the drilling, so I want to congratulate you.”Highlighting the recent amendments to the Bougainville Mining Act 2015, President Toroama emphasized that the ABG is legally anchoring landowners at the absolute forefront of resource decision-making. He reaffirmed that Bougainville’s natural wealth must serve as the financial engine to build critical infrastructure and support broader socio-economic priorities.“Based on our historical struggle, we have the Mining Act 2015, which we are continuously refining," the President stated. "Through these amendments, we are ensuring that we recognize who we are and the resources we possess. Your resources are meant to build hospitals, construct roads, send our children to school, and develop our communities.”His Excellency reminded the people of Kongara that, as resource owners, they maintain the ultimate authority over any development taking place on their customary land.“I encourage our youths to support Island Passage and Isina Holdings to successfully complete this drilling phase," Toroama added. "Once the data is gathered, any decision regarding the next phase of development will be entirely yours to make. The government has empowered you through the law, and nothing will take place outside of it."“The law is designed to protect first and foremost the landowners, secondly the investors, and thirdly the capital investment being brought into our region. The government is here to safeguard these interests through legal frameworks. We are not here to control your resources. However, if an investor departs, the government retains a regulatory responsibility under the Act to assist you and mitigate any interferences.”The President reaffirmed the ABG's absolute support for the IPX-Isina joint venture, noting that completing exploration across the Kongara 1 and Kongara 2 sites is vital, as the resulting geological data will guarantee and shape the region's future economic development.To illustrate the tangible benefits of resource development, he pointed to the redevelopment of the Panguna Mine, which has already facilitated the establishment of the Arawa Level 7 Hospital and generated substantial employment for Bougainvilleans.As Bougainville steadily advances toward its milestones of declaring Self-Government in 2027 and targeting Independence by 2030, the Toroama-Masatt Government remains intensely focused on building robust internal revenue streams to underpin the region’s political self-determination.Concurrently, speaking in his capacity as Mining Minister, the President strongly condemned the recent trend of unlawful disruptions to commercial operations, directly referencing a recent incident at Panguna. He urged youths to refrain from destroying investments, warning that disrupting development ultimately sabotages Bougainville's economic future and its path toward independence.

Higher fuel prices and developing El Nino pattern could quickly reshape Papua New Guinea’s economic outlook in the final months of 2026.BSP Group General Manager-Corporate and Institutional Banking, Daniel Faunt warns that El Nino and higher fuel prices could reshape Papua New Guinea’s economic path ahead.Mr. Faunt emphasized that El Nino facing PNG may shift expectations for taxes, spending and business activity in the country, while higher fuel costs provide the clearest link between geopolitics, the economy and broad market performance.“In the medium term, we remain optimistic, " Mr. Faunt Stated. "There is a positive contribution to the PNG economy coming from the PNG Chiefs’ 2028 NRL entry and the K45 billion Papua LNG is processing towards a final investment decision.”“In addition, a pipeline of other energy and mineral projects offers the prospect of another resources super cycle in PNG, which will create significant economic growth in the medium-term.”According to the Q3 Economic Performance, one of the biggest concerns is the impact of higher oil prices, with crude trading above US$100 a barrel amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The price surge is expected to drive energy costs for fuel-importing countries across the region, placing additional pressure on businesses and households.It reports that inflation also remains a key challenge.Highlighting rising fuel, freight and production costs are likely to filter through to the wider economy, while higher fertilizer and transport expenses are expected to push food prices higher in the coming months.At the same time, the emerging El Niño weather pattern poses a significant threat to regional economies.The report raises critical concerns that the risk is not only the direct impact of drought and changing weather conditions, but also how El Niño could amplify existing economic pressures, including elevated energy prices, commodity market volatility and persistent inflation.PNG and other emerging economies in the Pacific may have limited policy options to respond should these challenges intensify, raising concerns about economic resilience in the months ahead.Looking toward the first quarter of 2027, the regional outlook will depend largely on whether geopolitical tensions ease enough to bring down fuel prices and whether El Niño proves less severe than anticipated.BSP made this warning after releasing its September Qutar 2026 Economic Pulse and added that businesses still have good reasons to remain cautiously positive.

Papua New Guinea's foreign exchange inflows are becoming increasingly uneven as El Niño-driven production declines and logistical delays weigh on agriculture and mineral exports, according to BSP Group General Manager Treasury and Markets, Rohan George.George says the foreign exchange market recorded solid turnover during the September quarter, but key export-driven inflows are coming under growing pressure as dry weather conditions, weaker agricultural output and timing delays disrupt the flow of foreign currency into the economy.He warns that while the mining sector continues to anchor foreign exchange inflows, emerging risks, particularly the impact of El Niño and shifting commodity prices, could place further pressure on liquidity in the months ahead.His comments come as businesses continue to report extended processing times for foreign exchange orders.Mining export receipts remained the primary source of foreign exchange inflows during the quarter, supported by stronger production levels and firm copper prices.George highlighted that copper continues to provide a strong foundation for mineral earnings, driven by growing global demand linked to electrification and the expansion of artificial intelligence-related data centre infrastructure.However, he notes that gold prices are expected to face pressure in the final quarter of 2026, creating a more mixed outlook for mineral sector inflows, whilst highlighting that agriculture, traditionally a major contributor to foreign exchange of liquidity, is showing signs of weakness.George says drier conditions associated with El Niño are reducing agricultural production and export volumes, limiting Papua New Guinea's ability to fully benefit from favorable global commodity prices and at the same time, noting that logistical disruptions have delayed the timing of mineral sector foreign exchange receipts, adding further strain to market liquidity.“Risks to PNG’s FX inflows largely stem from further impacts of El Niño conditions,” George says.“While El Niño has supported global prices for key agricultural commodities, drier domestic conditions are weighing on agricultural production and export volumes.”The report says the combined impact of volatile commodity markets, weather-related production declines and logistical bottlenecks could leave Papua New Guinea increasingly reliant on mining sector inflows at a time when global economic conditions remain uncertain.BSP says it will continue to closely monitor liquidity conditions through the final quarter, while businesses are being encouraged to plan ahead for potential delays in foreign exchange availability.

National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop has commended the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ) for its humanitarian outreach efforts through its "Care for Humanity" program, which has provided much-needed assistance to hundreds of families across Port Moresby.The Iglesia Ni Cristo's Care for Humanity outreach was held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at the Filipino Association PNG Clubhouse in Port Moresby.The initiative delivered humanitarian aid and food assistance to families experiencing economic hardship throughout the nation’s capital. Through it more than 600 food parcels were distributed to families, including residents from the indigenous Motu Koita community of Hanuabada.The program not only provide essential supplies but also hopes to reinforce the values of compassion, generosity, and community support.Governor Parkop expressed his sincere appreciation to the Iglesia Ni Cristo for its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and promoting compassion through practical acts of service."I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Church executive minister Eduardo V. Manalo and the members of Iglesia Ni Cristo for their unwavering commitment to helping those who are most in need. Your efforts demonstrate the values of compassion, unity, and community service that strengthen societies and bring people together." Powes said.Furthermore, Governor Parkop welcomed visiting church leaders from Australia and other countries, including Church district pastor, Brother Uziel Bongares from Victoria, acknowledging their contribution to the success of the outreach program and their continued support for humanitarian initiatives in Papua New Guinea."It is a great honour to welcome these church leaders to Port Moresby. Their presence reflects the global spirit of service and solidarity that underpins this important humanitarian work," he said.Governor further acknowledged the efforts of NET25 and its media team, led by Ms. Lorreen Prinaula, for helping raise awareness of community outreach activities and ensuring that stories of hope and assistance reach a wider audience.Governor Parkop acknowledged that the outreach aligns closely with efforts to build a more inclusive and caring city."Together, by working in partnership and looking after one another, we can continue to make a positive impact in Port Moresby and help create stronger and more resilient communities," he said.

Laboratory data in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been kept on paper files and local spreadsheet that had limited access to how quick data could be used to guide treatment and public health response, but now a new system will solve this issue.This follows the launch of the OpenELIS Global platform in which the Australian government is supporting by digitizing Papua New Guinea’s health information management system.According to a statement, Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Madeleine Moss, the system is a critical step in strengthening PNG’s health architecture, allowing clinicians to deliver rapid, accurate diagnosis results and direct life-saving resources exactly where they are needed most.“Together, Australia and PNG are building secure, reliable laboratory systems that will protect and serve communities right across the nation,” she said. The OpenELIS Global platform will transform isolated, paper-based operations to a fully integrated, real-time digital health network.It serves as the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) platform and will strengthen laboratory data management, reporting, and connectivity across the health system.Executive Manager, Disease Control, Health Security & Surveillance Division, Dr Pilly Mapira said, “We are laying the foundation of a national, integrated digital health network that will ultimately connect medical and public health laboratories across every single province of this country.”“This is a system built with Papua New Guinea, configured to our specific clinical testing needs, and managed entirely by our local workforce,” she said.Papua New Guinea currently carries one of the heaviest burdens of disease in the region, actively combating malaria, HIV, drug-resistant tuberculosis, and the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance.The Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) will enable secure digital tracking of every sample and result; from the moment a sample arrives until the result reaches the clinician.The system covers Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL)’s six laboratory sections: HIV, Tuberculosis, Malaria, Sero-Surveillance, Microbiology and Molecular Biology. It also connects directly to automated analyzers, so results can be transferred electronically, eliminating manual re-entry. CPHL, Director of Laboratory Services, Mr. Willie Porau, said the launch resulted from months of work by laboratory staff, who tested and validated each section. “What began as a small proof-of-concept pilot has grown, section by section, into the system we are launching today. Our staff undertook user acceptance testing and training. They raised issues when things did not work as they should, and they kept raising them until those issues were resolved. That persistence, from a team who already carries a full daily workload, is the real foundation of this system,” he said.

Swimmer Roxanne Kirarock, 15, and sprinter Kabake Lansana, 17, have departed Port Moresby yesterday to represent Papua New Guinea at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.The two athletes will compete in swimming and athletics as part of a five-member Team PNG delegation. Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) President Emma Waiwai OL encouraged the athletes to approach the occasion with confidence and enjoyment.“Love your sport, play it with joy and let the nerves turn into energy,” Ms. Waiwai said.Leading the delegation as Chef de Mission is Dame Iammo Gapi Launa, who was the first female Olympian of Papua New Guinea.“I am honoured to lead our young team to the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar,” Dame Iammo says.“I could not be prouder to guide this team.”The Games will give the athletes opportunities to gain international competition experience, build friendships and experience different cultures.PNGOC sees Dakar as an opportunity to support the athletes’ continued development and build experience for future international competition, including the Pacific Games, Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games.With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games taking place in the region, Dakar provides valuable experience on a longer sporting journey.The Games run from 31 October to 13 November 2026 and mark the first Olympic sporting event held in Africa.