A new direction for netball in the country, as Netball PNG now aims to meet international standards by building development pathways for a future franchise. At the launch of the Butterfly Netball League at Sir John Guise Stadium on 29th March, Netball PNG President Ulato Avei said the board has taken steps to change the direction of netball in the country. This is to create an environment with intensive training to help players grow and be competitive enough for national selection. “And we have taken that bold move to bring seriousness to both athletic performance and administration,” she said. This follows plans by the netball board to put systems and processes in place this year to build a strong foundation. The aim is to bring out the best in athletes and officials, with a vision of creating a franchise in the future. “If rugby league can do it through the Digicel Cup, then we are hoping netball can take that direction as well,” Avei said. The Butterfly Netball League has been created to improve competition in the sport. The league has selected top players from competitions around the country and placed them into four teams: Island Monarch, Sepik Green Moon, Alexandra Birdwing, and Blue Mountain Swallowtail. Avei also highlighted the importance of sponsorship, saying young players need strong support to reach this level. “It is a dream that every young girl has in netball, but that dream can only come true if we have serious sponsorship,” she said. For the sport to meet international standards, there must be a strong national development pathway to support young talent. Sponsorship helps grow these pathways, similar to how the Digicel Cup has helped players move on to the Hostplus Cup. “That is why I am appealing to all sponsors. The main sponsor should be the Government of Papua New Guinea, followed by private sponsors,” she said. She also noted the need for better support in terms of gender equality, saying netball does not receive enough attention despite being a female-dominated sport, compared to rugby league. She called for equal recognition and support for all sports.

With the 2028 NRL season getting closer, the PNG Chiefs have made a strong move, naming former NRL star and coach Willie Peters as their new head coach, a decision that already feels bigger than just football. Peters arrives with a reputation that is hard to ignore. Over in England with Hull KR Rovers, he did not just coach, he made history. In his first season, he pushed the club into a Challenge Cup final and made the regular season top four in 2023. Not long after, just last year, he led the club to break a forty-year drought to lift the Super League trophy, before backing it up with a statement win over the Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge. For Lorna McPherson, the CEO of the PNG Chiefs, the moment carries real weight not just for the club, but for what is being built behind the scenes. She described it as a proud and historic step forward, adding that the club is not only bringing in a top-level coach, but someone whose passion for the game, culture, and leadership stands out. "It is a historic day and something that I am really proud of. It is another step in the right direction where we are going as well. And not only that, we have got an amazing, amazing coach, one that many other clubs were looking at as well." While the spotlight is on the coach, work is already happening off the field, with the club beginning to build its foundation, recruiting staff, setting systems, and preparing for what lies ahead. General Manager Michael Chammas made it clear that this role goes beyond tactics and game plans. For him, this job comes in three parts: football, the responsibility to unite the country, and the reality of building a team that will live and grow together. He pointed to Peters' record overseas as proof of what he brings but stressed that success here will be measured in more than just wins. “This is not just about coaching. It is about bringing the country together and building something people can believe in.” For Kumuls legend Stanley Gene, the timing feels right. With young talent rising and pathways now in place, he believes the pieces are finally coming together. What is needed now is the right leader to guide it, and in his eyes, that is exactly what the Chiefs have found. "For a coach who has won everything there in a short space of time, he expects success wherever he goes. He has had his show at Hull KR and he is not going to be shy saying this team is going to be competitive." As the road to 2028 continues, this team is no longer just preparing to enter the NRL; they are shaping the team’s identity in PNG.

Hula Village is preparing to mark 150 years since the arrival of Christian missionaries, a moment that shaped the faith, culture, and identity of its people. The United Church anniversary will be held from June 23 to 28, 2026, at Hula along the Hood Peninsula, bringing together community members from across Papua New Guinea and overseas. The milestone commemorates the arrival of Reverend Dr. William George Lawes of the London Missionary Society in 1876, when he first made contact with the Hula community. That moment is widely seen as the beginning of major social and spiritual change in the village. Church and community leaders officially launched preparations on March 28 at the original missionary landing site, marking the start of months of planning for the historic event. Pastor Kila’apae Walo of Morris Nixon Memorial Church described the anniversary as a defining moment. “This is a very historical event connected to the faith of our people,” he said. “We are calling all Hula sons and daughters, wherever they are, to come home and be part of this celebration.” He said the arrival of Christianity in 1876 introduced not only religion, but also education and new ways of living that helped shape Hula into what it is today. A key highlight of the celebration will be the renewal of a covenant first made in 1909, when village leaders formally committed to the Christian faith. “We believe that covenant must be re-established so future generations continue to walk in its blessings,” Pastor Walo said. Support for the event is also being coordinated with NCDC City Manager Ravu Frank, who is of Hula heritage. He said the anniversary is not only about remembering the past but also protecting the future. “This is not just a village event, it is our shared history,” he said. A research group formed in 2024, led by University of Papua New Guinea history lecturer Keimelo Gima, has been documenting Hula’s genealogy, church history, and cultural stories. The project combines oral history with old records, including newspaper archives from the 1800s. “History helps us understand who we are and where we are going,” Mr. Gima said. As part of preparations, a fundraising dinner will be held on May 2 at Sir John Guise Stadium aiming to raise about K350,000 to support the five-day event. Mr. Frank says the anniversary is a call for unity, inviting people from all provinces who have ties to Hula to return and reconnect with their roots. With 150 years marking a rare milestone, organizers believe the celebration carries deep meaning beyond the present generation. “We may not see 200 years,” Mr. Frank said, “but what we do now will shape the stories our children tell in the future.” The week-long program will include church services, cultural activities, and historical presentations, reflecting both the spiritual journey and the cultural strength of the Hula people.

Minister for State-Owned Enterprises William Duma, has praised the partnership behind the country’s first sovereign Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centre, describing it as a strategic collaboration that will shape the country’s digital future. Speaking at the launch on March 27 at the Hilton Hotel & Residents in Port Moresby, Minister Duma acknowledged the joint effort between Telikom PNG, Datec PNG, and CloudSigma, saying the initiative reflects strong coordination between state-owned enterprises and private sector partners. “This partnership reflects a combined strategy between government entities and SOEs working together for the country,” he said. He then framed the project as more than just a technological rollout, emphasizing its deeper national significance. “This is not just a launch. This is about sovereignty.” He explained that sovereign AI ensures data generated within Papua New Guinea across government systems and businesses, remains within the country, rather than being stored offshore. “This is about our data staying within our borders. It is about national security and national power.” The Minister noted that local data control will lead to more efficient and reliable services, with AI-driven systems expected to improve how government and businesses operate. He added that the infrastructure will play a key role in strengthening the country’s digital independence while creating long-term benefits for future generations. “This is an investment not just for today, but for the generations to come.”

Papua New Guinea has taken a major step into the digital future with the launch of a sovereign Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centre, a move aimed at strengthening national control over data, improving security, and unlocking new opportunities for innovation. Speaking at the launch on 27th March at Hilton Hotel & Residents in Port Moresby, Amos Tepi, Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Telikom PNG, said the initiative marks a turning point in how the country manages its digital infrastructure. “For many years, our data has been stored offshore and tonight, that changes,” he said. Tepi emphasized that the new facility ensures data generated within PNG is stored locally, giving the country greater control over its information systems and reducing reliance on foreign infrastructure. He described the data centre as a foundation for national security and digital sovereignty, allowing government agencies, businesses, and institutions to operate within a secure, locally managed environment. Beyond security, the platform is designed to support flexible digital solutions, including hybrid cloud systems that allow organizations to keep sensitive data on-site while still accessing scalable cloud services. A key feature of the centre is its Artificial Intelligence capability, which Tepi said will allow businesses and government departments to develop customized AI solutions tailored to local needs. “AI is not one-size-fits-all. Every industry has its own needs, and this platform allows us to build solutions that are truly our own,” he said. The project also aligns with broader government priorities, including digital identity systems, financial inclusion, and improved access to online services nationwide. Meanwhile, Preetam Taludar, Acting CEO of Datec PNG, described the launch as a transformative moment for the country’s digital landscape. He pointed to global trends, noting that many countries are now prioritizing control over their citizens’ data, referencing international frameworks like General Data Protection Regulation, which emphasize data ownership and protection. Taludar said the country is now moving in the same direction building not just infrastructure, but digital independence. “This is about ensuring that our data belongs to us, and that we have the systems to manage it securely,” he said. The sovereign AI data centre is expected to support government services, enable local innovation, and position Papua New Guinea to better compete in an increasingly digital global economy. Furthermore, officials say the platform will also create opportunities for local developers, businesses, and institutions to build and scale digital solutions within the country marking a shift from being technology consumers to active creators.

Prime Minister James Marape has called on Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) 284 newest police recruits to serve with discipline, loyalty, and purpose, as he laid out a long-term vision for a stronger national force during the passing-out parade at the National Centre of Excellence Bomana in Port Moresby yesterday.Addressing 284 graduating recruits of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, Marape reminded them that policing is not just a job but a lifelong duty to protect the nation. “Be loyal not to tribe, not to family, but first and foremost to your country,” he said. The Prime Minister framed their graduation as a historic moment, coming just after the country’s 50th anniversary, telling recruits they are part of a generation that will shape the country’s future. He challenged them to look ahead to the year 2075 when PNG marks 100 years of independence and reflect on the legacy they will leave behind. “I want you to look back in 2075 and say you helped secure this nation,” Marape said. Laying out the government’s broader vision, Marape reiterated plans to significantly expand the police force, with a long-term goal of building a force capable of effectively serving a population of 10 million Papua New Guinean Citizens. He said this growth will be matched with improved conditions, including a review of police salaries, insurance, and support systems for officers injured in the line of duty. “Our country needs men and women who are not in love with themselves, but in love with their country,” he added. Marape also acknowledged the sacrifices required in policing, urging the recruits to rise above personal interests and commit fully to national service. The Prime Minister’s address positioned the new constables not just as law enforcers, but as guardians of the Constitution and the country’s unity that are tasked with carrying Papua New Guinea forward into its next 50 years.

Over 280 new police recruits passed out of the National Center of Excellence at Bomana outside Port Moresby city this afternoon, with a significant increase of female officers graduating.The official ceremony took place in front family and friends, the police hierarchy, and the prime minister. This lot is the 2025 intake who underwent rigorous police training with a total of 284 recruits graduating as probationary constables. The group included 41 women and 243 men, all representing the provinces across the country. The intake also recorded one of the highest numbers of female recruits since the college’s elevation to National Centre of Excellence status. The ceremony marked the completion of six months of intensive training and comes as the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) continues its efforts to strengthen its workforce and enhance policing capacity nationwide.

Female doctors, nurses and staff of the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) celebrated National Women’s Day on March 24, 2026, at the APEC Haus, joined by reigning Miss PNG Iampela Popena, under the theme “Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.”The event brought together health professionals and stakeholders to reflect on women’s rights, leadership and empowerment within Papua New Guinea’s health sector. Proceedings began with a panel discussion focused on strengthening legal protections for women and girls, led by representatives from NCDPHA, the Department of Health and the Department of Personnel Management. Speakers highlighted the need for stronger policy implementation and institutional support to address gender-based challenges faced by women across sectors. Female doctors from various medical fields also shared experiences on leadership, career growth and economic empowerment, encouraging more women to take up leadership roles within the health workforce. The highlight of the event was addressed by Miss PNG Iampela Popena, who connected with the audience through a light-hearted opening before delivering a message centred on resilience and empowerment. “Good afternoon, everyone, you all look beautiful and stunning in your purple. I apologies, I didn’t have a purple dress,” she said, drawing laughter from the room. In her address, Popena spoke about the strength of Papua New Guinean women across generations, from young girls to professionals working in corporate and male-dominated fields. “We celebrate and commemorate the growth, the resilience and the strength of a powerful Papua New Guinean woman.” “From a young girl to mothers and women working in corporate spaces and even male-dominated fields like STEM.” She also acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by women, including gender-based violence, while urging unity and collective action. “Being a woman is our strength so let us work side by side to move forward in this country.” Popena encouraged young women to draw inspiration from those before them, while also taking on mentorship roles for future generations. She further highlighted the role of the Miss PNG platform in promoting leadership and advocacy, including recent efforts to expand participation across all provinces.The event concluded with a vote of thanks from NCDPHA Deputy Director of Public Health Rose Morre, who acknowledged Popena’s presence and contributions. In addition, a presentation of gifts was also given to Miss PNG on behalf of the organization, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony and group photo session. The program also included a farewell segment recognizing retiring NCDPHA staff who have served in Port Moresby hospitals and clinics over the years. The celebration not only honored women in the health sector but also reinforced ongoing calls for stronger protection, recognition and empowerment of women and girls across Papua New Guinea.

The extremely significant point of giving landowners their titles in order to empower then to participate in developments was raised by a stern female advocate of native lands yesterday during the 7th Pacific Urban Forum in Port Moresby city. Papua Native Landowners Association President Ms. Lucielle Paru raised this during Plenary One of the 7th Pacific Urban Forum (PUF7) at APEC Haus, where land ownership, urbanization, and government policy took centre stage, drawing responses from the PNG National Housing Corporation and pacific regional leaders. The discussion unfolded during the Question-and-Answer session of the plenary titled- “The State of Urbanization in the Blue Pacific,” where Ms. Paru raised concerns about Papua New Guinea’s approach to land and housing. Inquiring with the National Housing Corporation Managing Director Able Tol, Ms. Paru questioned how informal settlements and urban expansion could be effectively managed when customary landowners are not fully empowered to plan, develop, or control their own land. She stressed that without legal recognition of native land titles, urban development in PNG risks continuing a pattern of land alienation rather than inclusive growth. “Give the landowners their titles and we shall direct your path,” she said, reinforcing calls for landowners to be placed at the centre of development decisions. Ms. Paru extended her concerns to regional and international stakeholders, questioning why urban development policies often overlook customary land systems and whether there is genuine commitment to integrating native land rights into planning frameworks. She also raised concerns about compulsory land acquisition by the State, asking what safeguards exist to ensure transparency, consent, and protection for landowners. In response, National Housing Corporation Managing Director Able Tol acknowledged the concerns and outlined government efforts to protect customary land. He highlighted policies aimed at registering land and increasing landowner participation in development. Mr. Tol said the government is working to ensure customary land rights are protected, noting that the vast majority of land in PNG remains under customary ownership, while State land is limited. He also pointed to partnership models where landowners retain ownership while working with developers, describing these as pathways for inclusive development. “We are trying our best to make sure customary landowners’ rights are protected, and to create avenues where they can participate in development,” he said. His response focused on policy measures and ongoing initiatives, while broader questions around landowner control and legal empowerment remained central to the discussion. The issue resonated across the regional panel, with representatives from countries including Tuvalu and Fiji acknowledging similar challenges. Tuvalu’s Minister Ampelosa Manoa Tehulu supported the call for stronger recognition of landowners, emphasizing that people must remain at the centre of development. “I totally agree… people are more important than anything else,” he said, adding that development decisions must not come at the cost of identity and land ownership. Regional representatives also stressed the importance of governance systems that respect customary ownership, with examples from Fiji highlighting consent-based land negotiations as part of development planning. The broader discussion highlighted a shared pacific reality as rapid urbanization is placing pressure on land systems, but solutions must be grounded in cultural identity and land ownership structures. As the Pacific Urban Forum continues, the exchange underscored a key tension in Papua New Guinea’s development path: balancing urban growth with the rights of customary landowners.

Tourism Minister Belden Namah has commended the Miss Bird of Paradise (MBOP) pageant for its growing role in promoting Papua New Guinea’s tourism and cultural identity, while also praising reigning titleholder Iampela Popena for her representation on the regional stage. Speaking during an appreciation dinner hosted for the Tourism Ambassador and Miss Bird of Paradise, Namah highlighted the importance of the pageant as a national platform that extends beyond beauty, contributing to cultural promotion and national development. He emphasized that MBOP plays a significant role in showcasing Papua New Guinea’s diverse cultures to both regional and international audiences, aligning closely with the country’s tourism agenda. “Tourism is an inclusive business. This is where we create opportunities for everybody,” he said. Namah called for stronger government backing for tourism initiatives, including greater support for the MBOP pageant with it last year participation that shows such platforms contribute meaningfully to national branding and economic opportunities. “It shows passion that these young ladies have for their county” then he further encouraged wider participation at all levels, suggesting that involvement should begin from ward level and progress through local-level governments, districts, and provinces. This, he said, would provide more young women with opportunities to represent their communities and contribute to nation-building.  “I believe this saying we have many good provinces, but there are too many birds of paradise out there” Namah said. The minister also highlighted the importance of structured development at community levels, noting that strengthening systems at the grassroots would ultimately influence national progress. In closing, Namah pledged his support as Minister for Tourism to ensure the Miss Bird of Paradise organization is actively involved in upcoming tourism events, reinforcing its role as a key partner in promoting Papua New Guinea. The event, hosted in partnership with the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority, brought together stakeholders, sponsors, and representatives from across the country to celebrate the achievements of the national pageant and its ambassadors. Namah also extended his appreciation to former Miss Bird of Paradise titleholders Tyla Singirok and May Hasola, recognizing their contributions in representing Papua New Guinea internationally. He further acknowledged the MBOP team, led by Chairlady Ms Anna Bais, for their role in promoting culture, leadership, and national identity. The appreciation dinner underscored the increasing recognition of MBOP as a platform for cultural diplomacy, leadership development, and tourism promotion, positioning it as an important contributor to the country’s tourism sector moving forward.

The Papua New Guinea Nursing Association (PNGNA) has partnered with Southern Cross Assurance to deliver nationwide insurance coverage for nurses, in a move aimed at strengthening healthcare support for frontline workers across the country. PNGNA President Frederick Kebai, and Southern Cross executives, described the agreement as a long-term partnership focused on improving the welfare of nurses. The announcement was made during a press conference in Port Moresby at Grand Papua Hotel on Saturday, March 21, where PNGNA executives and Southern Cross Assurance representatives outlined the structure and benefits of the new arrangement. Mr. Kebai said the partnership reflects the association’s long-standing commitment to improving the welfare of its more than 4,000 members nationwide. Established in 1972, the association has continued to advocate for better working conditions, professional development, and welfare support for nurses. He explained that under the new arrangement, medical insurance coverage will now be managed by Southern Cross Assurance, while life insurance will remain with the existing provider, ensuring a more specialized and focused approach to member benefits. “All I want, and all we want, is that the policies are working and members are happy with the service they are receiving.” “Nurses are from the womb to the tomb, we look after patients, but when we are sick, we are lost, we are confused.” “Where do we go or who is going to look after us… the only thing that we want to align ourselves with the insurance company is for nurses to be well looked after.” Meanwhile, PNGNA General Secretary Mulina Kwalimu, said that the partnership aligns with national policies and reflects a broader vision of collaboration between public institutions and private sector partners to improve service delivery and living standards. On the other hand, Southern Cross Assurance Chief Executive Officer Srirangan E.K, said the agreement goes beyond a commercial transaction, describing it as a responsibility to support one of the country’s most critical sectors. “It is not simply a commercial transaction; it is a kind of partnership. We are looking forward to serve you.” “We will try to earn it every day in terms of responsiveness and the way we handle this medical service,” he said, adding that the company is developing systems, including digital platforms, to improve service delivery. As part of the partnership, Southern Cross Assurance is also investing in new healthcare infrastructure, including a medical facility expected to be operational later this year. The facility will include consultation rooms, diagnostic services, and laboratory capabilities aimed at improving access to quality care for members. Also present was Southern Cross Chairman Roxon Undi, who highlighted the scale of the commitment, noting that the company is positioning itself to support nurses nationwide while contributing to broader healthcare development in Papua New Guinea. “We understand the enormity of the task ahead, but we will put all our resources together to make sure that this partnership becomes truthful and we serve the purpose, which is the hardworking nurses around the country.” He added that the company plans to expand its medical services, including establishing diagnostic and treatment facilities to better serve insured members. Furthermore, the partnership signals a significant shift in how healthcare support is delivered to nurses in PNG, with both PNGNA and Southern Cross Assurance committing to strengthen coverage, improve services, and build long-term systems that prioritize the welfare of the country’s frontline health workers.

The Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival is set to be a landmark fundraising event dedicated to supporting cervical cancer care across Papua New Guinea. Ticket sales officially launched earlier this week through an exclusive partnership with Fone Haus and have been available to the public since March 19, 2026. Foster Noonan, National Operations Manager of Fone Haus Limited, expressed the company's commitment to the cause, stating that they are “really proud of Fone Haus for supporting the We Are One Foundation with this charity music festival.” Organized by the We Are One Foundation; the festival is scheduled for 10 May 2026 at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.  All proceeds generated from the event will directly benefit the Cervical Cancer Unit at Port Moresby General Hospital. Attendees can choose from several pricing tiers, including K80 for general admission, K160 for grandstand seating, and a K250 family package, while children under the age of six are granted free entry. To ensure a comfortable experience, families are encouraged to bring their own picnic mats, chairs, and blankets for the day's festivities. The event boasts an impressive lineup of local and international talent, featuring performances by Justin Wellington, Mal Maninga Kuri, Nathan Nakikus, Philip Roy Chan, Jay Rex, Stagaja Band, Chris Cobb, Isaiah Manoi, Mereani Masani, Estapacifica, Irau Jessie, and Aalliyah Nali. Reflecting on the deeper purpose of the gathering, WAO Director Kavitha Bluett said, “The Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival is not just about music and celebration.” “It is about coming together as a community to support the health and wellbeing of our mothers.” “Every ticket purchased contributes towards strengthening the Cervical Cancer Unit and helping save lives.” Furthermore, organizers continue to call upon families, businesses, and local communities to attend and stand behind this vital health initiative.