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Jordan VELA

Jordan VELA

SOLAR ENERGY PROJECT ROLLS OUT FOR RAI COAST, MADANG SOLAR ENERGY PROJECT ROLLS OUT FOR RAI COAST, MADANG
The Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF), with support from the Australian Government’s Pawarim Komuniti Partnerships program, is delivering a transformative solar energy project in Madang Province’s Rai Coast District for the first time. This ambitious initiative marks one of the largest solar roll- outs the district has ever seen, with over 12,100 household systems, 22 community facility systems, and 777 streetlights being installed across 157 remote villages. The project is set to illuminate the lives of more than 60,500 people in some of Papua New Guinea's most underserved communities. The large-scale solar initiative, funded by the Australian Government under the Pawarim Komuniti Partnerships program, spans three provinces: Morobe, Madang, and New Ireland provinces. It is designed to bring reliable, sustainable energy to remote regions, impacting over 155,000 people in 280 villages. In total, the program will deliver over 31,100 household systems, community facility systems, and streetlights, revolutionizing access to clean energy in these rural areas. With KTF's groundbreaking work in Madang, this project is a significant step toward enhancing the quality of life in remote communities by providing access to solar energy. It underscores a shared commitment to empowering rural populations and fostering sustainable development in Papua New Guinea.
Published on January 24, 2025
POM HEVI TOKTOK ADDRESSING VIOLENCE & CONFLICTS IN COMMUNITIES POM HEVI TOKTOK ADDRESSING VIOLENCE & CONFLICTS IN COMMUNITIES
A bold step towards peace and conflict resolution has emerged in the nation’s capital Port Moresby city that focusses on communities working together. The community-based organization, Port Moresby Hevi Toktok, was established in 2023 by founder Mr. Ricky Narewec and aims to address violence and conflicts by equipping communities with essential problem-solving and conflict management skills. Registered with the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), the initiative is rooted in Narewec’s experience working with community leaders in dispute resolution at the Morobe Block Settlement. His vision is to empower grassroots communities where violence and conflicts range from ethnic clashes to sorcery-related violence that are prevalent, with the right tools to address these issues. "The level of violence and its devastating impacts on families, clans, and tribes is unprecedented," said Narewec. "It disrupts lives, displaces communities, and brings about anxiety, chaos, and poverty. Addressing these issues requires proactive measures at the community level." Conflicts often spiral out of control due to a lack of formal systems or skills for non-violent resolution. While institutions like the police and village courts provide some support, they rarely reach the grassroots level, leaving families and informal groups unequipped to handle disputes. "We believe that problem-solving and conflict management are essential life skills that everyone should have," Narewec explained. "These skills are as fundamental as cooking or carpentry. If we can empower people to manage conflicts safely and non-violently, we can create stronger, more resilient communities," he added. Port Moresby Hevi Toktok targets several areas of conflict, including family and gender-based violence, sorcery-related violence, political and election-related violence, criminal violence, and tribal conflicts. The organization advocates integrating conflict management education into the school curriculum to build a conflict-resilient younger generation. "Teaching these skills in schools will empower our children to resolve disputes and conflicts as they grow. This proactive approach can cultivate a generation of peacemakers and problem-solvers, reducing the number of troublemakers in our communities." Mr. Narewec emphasized. So far, the organization has conducted seven awareness sessions across three settlement communities in Port Moresby, with plans to expand its outreach to schools and other community groups throughout Papua New Guinea. Port Moresby Hevi Toktok also aligns its mission with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions. By providing communities with tools for peaceful dispute resolution, the organization contributes to the broader vision of global peace and justice. "Our work supports SDG 16 by enabling communities to build strong institutions through peace and justice. Peaceful communities create a foundation for prosperity, not just locally, but nationally," said Narewec. The organization is self-funded and calls for support from individuals, development organizations, and corporate donors to sustain its mission. "Peacebuilding is a collective responsibility and we all prosper in peaceful communities, so we need everyone’s support,” he concluded. Port Moresby Hevi Toktok remains committed to fostering peace and conflict resolution in communities, offering hope for a more harmonious and prosperous Papua New Guinea.
Published on January 23, 2025
MADFOX PAWA CLEAN WATER BUCKET FILTERS IMPROVING LIVES MADFOX PAWA CLEAN WATER BUCKET FILTERS IMPROVING LIVES
Access to clean drinking water remains a critical health and wellbeing concern, particularly in rural areas of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Managing Director of Madfox Enterprise, Gary Litz, has been at the forefront of addressing this issue with the Madfox Pawa x Sawyer Clean Water Bucket Filter, an innovative solution aimed at improving water accessibility and quality for rural communities. In PNG, around 66% of the population lacks access to clean drinking water, while 76% do not have access to safe sanitation facilities, as highlighted by UNICEF. This lack of access significantly impacts public health, with the absence of clean water leading to waterborne diseases that result in stunting, wasting, and other chronic health problems in rural communities. A 2019 report from the United Nations Joint Monitoring Program estimated that only 41% of the population had access to safe drinking water, and just 13% had access to improved sanitation. These figures demonstrate the significant challenge faced by PNG in providing basic clean water infrastructure, especially in its rural and remote areas. Born and raised in the picturesque province of Madang, Gary Litz grew up witnessing the daily struggles of rural communities to access clean water. He saw families walking long distances to fetch water that was often unsafe to drink, a challenge that deeply impacted their health and quality of life. These experiences left a lasting impression on Litz, inspiring him to develop a solution that could bring clean water to even the most remote villages, a solution that would be both cost-efficient and effective for those who needed it most. Determined to make a difference, Litz conducted extensive research and testing, eventually introducing the Sawyer Clean Water Filter through his initiative, Madfox Pawa. This innovative filtration system was designed to be a practical and affordable answer to the water crisis, providing households and communities in rural regions with a sustainable way to access clean drinking water. Each filter costs just PGK192.50 and lasts over five years, providing a lasting impact in areas where access to clean water is scarce. It removes over 99.94% of bacteria, dust, and impurities that cause diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid, which lead to developmental problems in young children. Angela Pennefather, Founder of Melanesian Luxury Yachts, has been a strong supporter of this clean water initiative. Ms. Pennefather recently announced on LinkedIn that Melanesian Luxury Yachts has ordered the first 200 filters to be delivered during their upcoming expedition to West New Britain. These filters will be distributed to rural hospitals, schools, and families in need. “Having seen the results firsthand, I’m thrilled to announce that Melanesian Luxury Yachts has ordered our first 200 filters, which will be delivered as part of our next expedition to West New Britain,” said Pennefather. “The goal is to alleviate the daily burden of collecting water and significantly improve health outcomes for communities,” she added. Each water filter, purchased through Madfox Pawa, has the potential to create a tangible, lasting impact, providing a solution to an urgent challenge facing millions of people in rural PNG. Gary Litz is committed to addressing the clean water crisis in PNG, working closely with partners like Angela Pennefather and Melanesian Luxury Yachts to bring life-changing solutions to the country’s most underserved communities.
Published on January 22, 2025
TIKTOK SHUTS DOWN IN THE UNITED STATES HOURS AHEAD OF A BAN TIKTOK SHUTS DOWN IN THE UNITED STATES HOURS AHEAD OF A BAN
TikTok went dark in the United States on Saturday night (local time), less than two hours before a ban was slated to go into effect. Visitors to the app were greeted with a message reading: "Sorry, TikTok isn't available right now. "A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the US. Unfortunately, that means you can't use TikTok for now." In Australia, users clicking on American-based users were also greeted with the message. TikTok was expected to go dark in the United States on Sunday (local time) after the Supreme Court upheld a ban on the Chinese-owned social media platform — but it could be back as early as Monday. Late on Saturday, TikTok began displaying a message reading: "We regret that a US law banning TikTok will take effect on January 19 and force us to make our services temporarily unavailable. "We're working to restore our service in the US as soon as possible, and we appreciate your support. Please stay tuned." The notice came just hours before the ban was set to go into effect. But how long the ban will last was in question after President-elect Donald Trump said he will "most likely" delay a ban on TikTok for 90 days after he takes office on Monday, adding that he has not made a final decision in a phone interview with NBC News on Saturday. "I think that would be, certainly, an option that we look at. The 90-day extension is something that will be most likely done, because it's appropriate. You know, it's appropriate. We have to look at it carefully. It's a very big situation," Trump said in the interview. "If I decide to do that, I'll probably announce it on Monday," he added. The warning from TikTok — and the suggestion of an extension — is the latest twist in a saga that's dragged on for months, leaving the fate of the app, with its 170 million US users, in limbo. The law blocking TikTok was passed last year with strong bipartisan support and signed into law by President Joe Biden. Lawmakers said TikTok's ties to China and its access to reams of data posed a threat to national security. Many US users told CNN they were bracing for an end to the app, including influencers and other small businesses that said they depended on the platform for a living. Still, they said, they held out hope the app would somehow be saved. But the Supreme Court on Friday upheld the ban, dashing hopes of a last-second judicial assist. Later on Friday, TikTok said it would go offline on Sunday unless there was intervention from the Biden administration. Some of the companies that operate app stores and run computer servers are said to be concerned that they will be held liable. If TikTok goes dark, it will be because those service providers stop carrying the app to avoid legal consequences. Meanwhile, Trump — who first warned of TikTok's dangers five years ago — is now casting himself as the app's saviour. Earlier this month, on his Truth Social account, he posted stats about his own popularity on TikTok and asked, "Why would I want to get rid of TikTok?" TikTok's CEO Shou Chew has met with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago home in the weeks leading up to the ban taking effect and is expected to attend Trump's inauguration on Monday. The law passed last year allows the president to delay the ban from going into effect by 90 days but requires evidence that parties working to arrange a sale of TikTok to a US-owned company have made significant progress. But TikTok's owner, ByteDance, has rejected would-be buyers. The company has cited its popularity among American users, and its value to small businesses across the country, as it fights to stay online without any change in ownership.
Published on January 19, 2025
POM COOPERATE VOLLEYBALL NEW ERA - SEASON SIX POM COOPERATE VOLLEYBALL NEW ERA - SEASON SIX
The Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POMCVC) will be kicking off its highly anticipated Season 6 on March 2nd, 2025, at the Taurama Aquatic Indoor Complex (TAIC), introducing a bold new era for the competition. With the exciting introduction of tiered divisions, a promotion and relegation system, and a revamped finals structure, this season promises to take the stakes to new heights. Teams will no longer compete in traditional Cup, Plate, and Bowl finals but will battle for division titles in the newly structured Premier Division, Division 1, Division 2, Division 3, and Mixed Division. The top two teams in each division will rise through the ranks, while the bottom two will face relegation, ensuring that every match has heightened importance, and every team has something to fight for. In this new format, competition will be fierce, with each division featuring 16 to 17 teams, divided into pools to ensure a balanced and competitive structure. Only the top eight teams from each pool will qualify for the finals, with the first four securing a “double chance” while the others will face elimination matches in their fight for the Grand Final. New teams entering the competition will begin in Division 3, giving them the chance to prove themselves before climbing the ranks. A major focus of Season 6 is youth development, with the launch of the Junior Development Program, designed to nurture future champions and prepare players for the U21 National Championships. Additionally, the POMCVC Premier League will provide a platform for non-workers and seasonal teams, ensuring the competition remains inclusive and open to all skill levels. With all eyes on the action and the new format in place, Season 6 of the POMCVC is set to be a thrilling and competitive journey for players and fans alike. Team registration is open until February 10th and the Team Representatives Meeting will take place on February 22nd. Get ready for an unforgettable season of volleyball at the Taurama Aquatic Indoor Complex.
Published on January 17, 2025
MOTUKEA TO LEALEA ROAD NEARS COMPLETION MOTUKEA TO LEALEA ROAD NEARS COMPLETION
The long-awaited Motukea to Lealea road maintenance project in the Central province is nearing completion, bringing improved connectivity and safety to the area. Laba, the company overseeing the project, has confirmed that 90% of the second coat 14mm seal application has been completed. Final touches, including line marking and guardrail repairs, are currently underway, keeping the project on track to meet its deadline. This major infrastructure development has been a collaborative effort involving Laba’s supervisory, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE), and Construction Administration (CA) teams, working seamlessly with Global. Special recognition was also given to the hardworking Global employees from the Laba villages, whose contributions have been instrumental to the project's success. Once completed, the road is expected to enhance travel reliability and safety for the community, marking a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure development. Residents can anticipate the project’s completion in the coming weeks, paving the way for a smoother and safer journey.
Published on January 17, 2025
URGENT MEDICAL ASSISTANCE SAVES PREGNANT WOMAN 'S LIFE URGENT MEDICAL ASSISTANCE SAVES PREGNANT WOMAN 'S LIFE
A pregnant woman en route to a remote village in Central Province found herself in a life-threatening situation when she suddenly went into labour, requiring immediate medical attention, but thanks to a police officer, she was able to receive assistance. The distressing incident unfolded as the woman struggled to breathe and experienced severe pain, with no immediate access to healthcare services. In a stroke of timely intervention, Reserve Constable Clement Yobunas, a trained first aider, stepped forward to offer critical assistance. The incident was quickly reported to the 7-Mile Police Station, prompting an immediate response from Station Commander and Reserve Constable Yobunas, who rushed to the scene. “When I arrived, I immediately applied the St John Action Plan, also known as ‘DRSABCD,’ and knew exactly what to do,” said Reserve Constable Yobunas. “I introduced myself as a police officer and a first aider, reassuring the woman and others present that I was there to help until the ambulance arrived.” The woman was in severe pain and unable to stand. Efforts were made to stabilize her as the police headquarters at Konedobu was notified and the National St John Ambulance operations centre was contacted for further support. In recognition of the Reserve Constable’s quick and decisive action, Commissioner David Manning of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) commended Yobunas for stepping up in a critical moment to assist the distressed woman. “We commend Reserve Constable Yobunas for his quick thinking and decisive action in assisting a pregnant woman in distress. His actions highlight the essence of our duty as police officers—to protect. His ability to step up in such a situation reflects the core values of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to safeguard lives in any circumstance,” said Commissioner Manning. He also encouraged all police officers to undertake first aid training, acknowledging the National St John Ambulance Council for offering this vital training at no cost to officers or the Constabulary. Reserve Constable Yobunas is among 109 individuals who participated in the free community first aid training organized for taxi and bus drivers in the National Capital District in December. The National St John Ambulance Council (NStJA) continues its commitment to expanding first aid knowledge within the community. This year, NStJA plans to train approximately 400 police officers across the Highlands region in basic first aid, preparing them to handle emergencies effectively. As part of its legislative mandate, the National St John Ambulance Council aims to help communities across Papua New Guinea become better prepared for emergencies. One of the key strategies is providing first aid training to ensure individuals can step in and assist in times of need, enhancing the overall safety and preparedness of the population.
Published on January 16, 2025
HKDYDA HOSTS AWARENESS PROGRAM IN GAIRE VILLAGE HKDYDA HOSTS AWARENESS PROGRAM IN GAIRE VILLAGE
The Hiri Koiari District Youth Development Association (HKDYDA) recently conducted an impactful youth awareness program in Gaire village, Central Province. The event addressed critical issues such as the harmful effects of drugs, alcohol, and home-brewed spirits has on the community. This outreach also marked the launch of the association's membership registration drive, designed to create a comprehensive youth database. The initiative aims to identify skills and development pathways for young people through strategic partnerships and collaborations. The program attracted a strong turnout from Gaire villagers, who actively participated in discussions. HKDYDA representatives emphasized the importance of discipline, character-building, and ethical citizenship as core values for community and personal growth. The association expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the Gaire community, stating, “This is just the beginning of our commitment to empowering the youth of Hiri Koiari District.” HKDYDA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth aged 12-38 through initiatives that promote leadership, education, and entrepreneurship. Key areas of focus include: Health and Sports: Nurturing talent and teaching basic first aid skills to instill discipline and sportsmanship. Skills Development: Offering workshops in agriculture, trade skills, leadership, and communication to boost self-reliance and confidence. Entrepreneurship: Providing pathways for starting and managing small businesses, with guidance on SME registration. HKDYDA invites individuals and organizations to contribute by sharing life testimonies or donating resources to further their mission and for more information or to support the association, contact hkyouthda@gmail.com
Published on January 16, 2025
KTF EMPOWERING PNG’S NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS KTF EMPOWERING PNG’S NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
The Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) was started on ANZAC Day in 2003 by a group of kind Australians who wanted to help Papua New Guinea (PNG), One of these founders is Dr. Genevieve Nelson, who is now the CEO. The foundation was inspired by the brave actions of the Papua Infantry Battalion, the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels, and Australian soldiers during World War II along the Kokoda Track. KTF was created to honor the special friendship and teamwork between PNG and Australia. At first, KTF helped students along the Kokoda Track by giving them scholarships for school. Over time, it started helping in more ways. Now, KTF works to improve education, health, fairness, and leadership in PNG. Today, KTF works in 18 out of PNG’s 22 provinces. Its programs help thousands of people every year, and it has offices in Oro, Central, Western, New Ireland provinces, and the National Capital District (NCD). One of KTF’s most important programs is the Archer Leadership Development Program. This program helps young people in PNG become great leaders who can make their communities better places to live. The Archer Leadership Development Program has been running for 15 years. Every year, it picks 11 amazing students who are in their last year of university. These students are chosen because they show they have the potential to become great leaders. The program gives these students the tools they need to succeed. It helps them grow their confidence, build new skills, and connect with people who can support their journey. This year’s group of Archer Leaders is made up of students studying different subjects from top universities in PNG. Here are their names and what they’re studying: Taine Kassman – Law, UPNG Vilousa Hahembe – Economics, UPNG Nabieu Lansana – Law, UPNG Issabelle Vilau – Masters in Economics, UPNG Denphil-Hunt Mitir – Law, UPNG Zeruiah Grammon – Law, UPNG Darrel Yockopua – Engineering Mineral Processing, Unitech Solange Dawana – Mechanical Engineering, Unitech Chelsea Paspalau – Fisheries & Marine Science, PNGUNRE Wallace Parimahi – Mining Engineering, Unitech Zaraleena Adamson – Mechanical Engineering, Unitech McBride Matai – Civil Engineering, Unitech These students go through a year-long program that includes mentorship, work placements in PNG and Australia, tuition support, and projects that help their communities. KTF’s work through the Archer Leadership Development Program is about more than helping students. It’s about building a brighter future for PNG by investing in young people who will lead their communities. As KTF looks to the future, it invites more young people to become part of this incredible journey. Applications for the 2025 Archer Leadership Program are open now and will close on January 31st at 11:59 PM. If you or someone you know wants to apply, visit KTF’s website at www.ktf.ngo The Archer Leadership Development Program is proudly supported by the Fred P. Archer Trust (via Perpetual), Newmont, and Kina Bank. KTF continues to inspire hope, make positive changes, and build a stronger PNG for generations to come.
Published on January 15, 2025
PNGBF ANNOUNCES TEAMS FOR UPCOMING 3X3 CHAMPIONSHIPS PNGBF ANNOUNCES TEAMS FOR UPCOMING 3X3 CHAMPIONSHIPS
The announcement was made during a media conference held at the Aquatic Center 3-Mile in Port Moresby on January 13th by the PNGBF President, David Peter. The athletes were selected following trials at the same venue, with most players coming from NCD. “We are excited to reveal the athletes who will represent Papua New Guinea in both the Asia 3x3 Championship and the Palau Mini Pacific Games,” said Mr. Peter. “Our teams are composed of hardworking athletes who will bring pride to the country, competing in two prestigious tournaments in 2025.” The Open Men’s 3x3 Team for Asia 3x3 Championship Head Coach: Nick Daroa Team Manager: Ronnie Pomat The Open Men’s 3x3 team will compete at the Asia 3x3 Championship in Singapore, scheduled for March 28–31, 2025. Moses Lune (NCD) Sibona Kala (NCD) Sydney Dobunaba (NCD) Moses Kairi (NCD) Ryan Tetemo (NCD) Jabez Geita (NCD) Augustine Kaupa (NCD) Obert Muri (NCD) Ipai Willie (NCD) Jordan Geasa (Lae) Chavez Gator (NCD) Epson John (Mount Hagen) Emmanuel Bryant (Lae) The Open Women’s 3x3 Team for Asia 3x3 Championship The Open Women’s 3x3 team will also compete at the Asia 3x3 Championship in Singapore, scheduled for March 28–31, 2025. Betty Angula (NCD) Anna Queen (NCD) Jackie Asiba (NCD) Kalua Noma Dobunaba (NCD) Betina Dobunaba (NCD) Nita Warabe (NCD) Michaelyn Hem (NCD) Mary Simon (NCD) Jemina James (NCD) Lucien Kalinoy (NCD) The Under 23 Men’s 3x3 Team for Palau Mini Pacific Games The Under 23 Men’s 3x3 team will represent PNG at the Palau Mini Pacific Games in June 2025. The team’s head coach will be announced by the PNG Olympic Committee (PNGOC). Reginald Lelenge (NCD) Alan Millard (NCD) Malcolm Malayaki (NCD) Aiden Maikai (NCD) Moria Ella Virginia (NCD) Darren Paragi (Medeng) Logan Nagy (NCD) Gifton Lama (NCD) Brown Phillip (Lae) Joseph Gorogo (Alatau) Simon Topogogo (Ayura) Anta Bobola (NCD) Jabez Lucas (Alatau) The Under 23 Women’s 3x3 Team for Palau Mini Pacific Games The Under 23 Women’s 3x3 team will also compete at the Palau Mini Pacific Games in June 2025. The team’s head coach will also be announced by the PNG Olympic Committee (PNGOC). Gloria Kaiyawa (NCD) Nauna Lynette Lelai (NCD) Lynette Togia (NCD) Gabby La Maikai (NCD) Camelia Konaha (NCD) Charnel Paraki (NCD) Santel Mope (NCD) Imanvela Sine (NCD) Alice Meyer (NCD) Laue Ekwa (NCD) Kayla M. (NCD) Vasti Hem (NCD) Philomona Isier (NCD) The Open Men’s and Women’s 3x3 teams will be led by Head Coach Nick Daroa and Team Manager Ronnie Pomat. With PNG's teams now selected, all players will focus on their final preparations as they aim to deliver strong performances at these two prestigious tournaments. The Asia 3x3 Championship and the Palau Mini Pacific Games are key milestones for PNG basketball, and the PNGBF looks forward to seeing the athletes showcase their skills on the regional and international stage.
Published on January 14, 2025
THE RAGGA KING IS BACK WITH NEW EP THE RAGGA KING IS BACK WITH NEW EP
Tarvin Toune, one of PNG’s most versatile and passionate artists, has finally unveiled his latest project, The Comeback. Released under BLAZE ONE STUDIO, this EP is not just a collection of six tracks: it’s a five-year journey of self-discovery, resilience, and artistic reinvention. For Tarvin, The Comeback represents more than just new music—it’s the product of his determination to take full control of his craft. In a bold move, he chose to produce the entire EP in his own studio, a decision that brought with it significant challenges. “It's time, I wanted to create something entirely my own, something deeply personal. That meant building my studio and learning the ropes of production,” he explained. "What's different from this EP than from my previous work is that most of my old music contains songs about love, heartbreak, romantic, etc... but this EP titled the THE COMEBACK is about 'life'. Building his own studio was no small feat. Tarvin, with the assistance of his trusted collaborator Chaddy Chad, spent years refining each track. Every song underwent multiple revisions, with genres updated and arrangements fine-tuned to ensure they aligned with his evolving vision. “We had to recheck all six tracks multiple times,” Chaddy said. “It wasn’t just about recording only because we had to recheck each track, there lyrics, harmonies everything to make sure it's perfect.” This painstaking process is one reason the EP took five years to complete. Despite the delays, Tarvin and his collaborator remained committed to delivering a project that would reflect his growth as both an artist and a producer. Adding to the EP’s uniqueness is Tarvin’s effort to spotlight emerging talent. He worked with two up-and-coming artists, Dlex Blunt'eh and Tuhianna, featuring them on key tracks. This decision underscores Tarvin’s dedication to giving back to the music community and nurturing new talent. “Helping new artists is something I’m passionate about,” he said. “Music isn’t just about me—it’s about creating opportunities for others to shine.” The Comeback blends a variety of genres with Tarvin’s signature sound, making it a dynamic and emotionally rich listening experience of these 6 tracks: Track 1: YU OSEM – A Reggae-infused opener that sets a vibrant and uplifting tone. Track 2: MI MAHM NATIN ft Tuhianna – An RnB masterpiece with vocal harmonies by Chaddy Chad, adding depth and soul. Track 3: Raun Lonlon – A track rooted in PNG’s local style, celebrating Tarvin’s cultural heritage. Track 4: Stap Isi ft Dlex Blunt'eh – A slow, introspective song that tugs at the heartstrings. Track 5: A bold Electronic Pop track featuring DJ Shaza, sung entirely in English—a rare move for Tarvin. Track 6: Hard Life – Tarvin’s personal favorite, offering a raw and soulful reflection on his struggles and triumphs. Each track brings something unique to the table, showcasing Tarvin’s versatility and his willingness to step outside his comfort zone. The Comeback is not the end of Tarvin’s journey; it’s a steppingstone to even bigger things. The EP serves as a lead-up to his upcoming album, where he plans to collaborate with the legendary SPRIGGA MEKK. Fans can expect this album to build on the themes and styles introduced in The Comeback, taking his artistry to new heights. At its core, The Comeback is a story of perseverance and growth. It’s about overcoming obstacles, embracing change, and creating something meaningful. For Tarvin Toune, this EP is a celebration of his journey as an artist and a reminder to his fans—and himself—that good things take time. “I hope The Comeback inspires upcoming artist,” Tarvin said. “Never give up on your dreams. The journey might be tough, but it’s worth it so keep on working hard.” The Comeback is now available on all major platforms, offering fans an authentic and transformative listening experience.
Published on January 13, 2025
CPL GROUP ONE YEAR ON FROM BLACK WEDNESDAY CPL GROUP ONE YEAR ON FROM BLACK WEDNESDAY
One year ago, on January 10, 2024, the events of "Black Wednesday" shook Port Moresby and left an indelible mark on the community. The CPL Group, among the hardest hit, saw multiple stores destroyed, including Stop & Shop locations in North Waigani, Rainbow, Badili, and Harbour City; Hardware Haus North Waigani; Jack’s of PNG Rainbow; and the Group’s first Family Planning Clinic at Rainbow. The losses, amounting to over K90 million, tested the Group’s strength like never before. But even in the face of devastation, CPL chose resilience. "Just as our loyal customers felt the pain of that day, we too felt the heartbreak," the Group stated. "But from the ashes of Black Wednesday, we found the strength to rebuild and renew our commitment to Papua New Guinea." It was the resilience of staff and management, the unwavering support of loyal customers, partners, and SMEs, and the assistance of the government that enabled CPL to rise above the challenges. By February, the reopening of Stop & Shop Badili signaled the start of a journey of recovery. This was followed by new milestones: a new Stop & Shop store at 8 Mile in June, another at Rainbow in August, and City Pharmacy outlets in 8 Mile, Port Moresby, Namatanai, and North Waigani. Hardware Haus unveiled its Home & Living store at Waigani Central in June, and Jack’s of PNG opened at Brian Bell Plaza, Boroko, in December. "These milestones represent more than just new locations; they are a testament to the resilience of our team, the loyalty of our customers, and the unity of our community," said the CPL Group. Since 1987, CPL has stood by its mission to help Papua New Guineans live better and healthier lives. Today, the Group reaffirms its commitment to innovation, service, and growth. "We are resilient. We are here to stay. Black Wednesday tested us, but it could not break us. Together with our customers, we will continue to build a brighter future." CPL Group extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by them during the past year. Your support has been the cornerstone of their journey of recovery and hope.
Published on January 10, 2025