Customary landownership, workforce development and opportunities for young Papua New Guineans will take centre stage during this year's PNG Resources Week.PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy Executive Director Richard Kassman say the week-long event has been designed to promote meaningful discussions on the future of the country's resource sector while preparing the next generation for careers in mining, petroleum and energy.Mr. Kassman said one of the major topics will be customary landownership, which he described as a unique feature of Papua New Guinea's resource industry.He said with about 95 per cent of the country's land held under customary ownership, landowners remain key stakeholders in resource development.As part of the program, the Chair of the Parliamentary Bipartisan Committee on Customary Land Ownership, Keith Iduhu, is expected to lead discussions on the future direction of customary landownership and its relationship with the Mining Act and Oil and Gas Act.Mr. Kassman said the Chamber wants to improve public understanding of these issues and address misconceptions surrounding landowner participation in major resource projects.National content will also be a major focus throughout the week, covering three key areas—local business participation, workforce development and community investment.Mr. Kassman said Papua New Guinea's resource projects must continue creating opportunities for local companies, investing in skills development and supporting education, health and agriculture in project areas.A key feature of the event will be the Golden Exposition, where resource companies and service providers will showcase career pathways and business opportunities available across the industry.Around 40 secondary schools in the National Capital District, along with universities and tertiary institutions, have been invited to attend dedicated student days.Mr. Kassman said companies have been encouraged to bring their human resources teams to engage directly with students and inspire them to consider careers in engineering, science, trades, aviation, logistics and other professions linked to the resource sector."We want young Papua New Guineans to see the opportunities available in the industry, think about getting the right education and training, and prepare themselves for the jobs of the future," he said.The week will conclude with the PNG Resource Summit, where government ministers and industry leaders will provide updates on existing resource projects, new developments and ongoing exploration activities in the mining and petroleum sectors.

Authorities have restored calm in Kiunga after a large crowd attempted to attack Highlander residents and damage property following a series of fatal road incidents involving members of the Yongom and Nomad communities.Officer Commanding Delta Company, 1RPIR, Captain Roderick Kambual, said more than 100 people from the Nomad area of Western Province entered Kiunga on Monday morning intending to force Highlanders out of the town.Captain Kambual said the crowd's actions were linked to two separate fatal incidents involving alleged drunk driving in recent weeks, in which two members of the Yongom tribe lost their lives."The group came into town targeting Highlanders. They were protesting and wanted Highlanders removed from Kiunga because of the recent deaths," he said.He explained that community leaders had initially encouraged those affected to follow the proper legal process by presenting their grievances through a petition rather than resorting to violence.However, tensions escalated again after a member of the Nomad community was allegedly struck in a separate incident on Sunday, prompting another group to mobilise.Captain Kambual said authorities, together with police and local leaders, intervened before the crowd could destroy homes or attack residents."We managed to calm the situation and stopped the crowd before they could damage property or attack people. We advised them to use the proper channels to resolve their grievances," he said.He said some members of the crowd also attempted to reach the police station, believing the suspect connected to one of the incidents was being held there. Others allegedly headed towards the suspect's residence with the intention of burning the house and harming the suspect's relatives.Authorities responded quickly to both locations, dispersing the crowd before any major violence occurred.Captain Kambual said police, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, provincial authorities and the town mayor worked together to address the concerns raised by the protesters and restore order.While the immediate situation has stabilised, he warned that tensions remain."The situation is calm now, but it could escalate if more support comes from surrounding communities. We are continuing to monitor the situation and are prepared to respond if necessary," Captain Kambual said.Authorities remain on standby in Kiunga as the situation continues to be monitored to prevent any further outbreaks of violence.

First-time participants at the 9th Papua New Guinea Defence Force Biennial Military Wives Convention say the event has given them confidence, direction and a stronger sense of support within the military community.For Ruth Wual, from Goldie River Barracks’ Long-Range Unit under the Special Forces, the convention has been a valuable learning experience and a platform where women’s voices are being heard.Ruth said attending the week-long gathering for the first time allowed her to connect with military wives from different units and better understand shared challenges.“Women’s voices are plentiful, especially when men also come out and support. It is a good thing this convention came up because it gives us a chance to speak and be heard,” she said.She said one of the key challenges she faces as a young military wife is expressing herself within the system, but the convention has encouraged her to be more confident and open.Ruth also acknowledged the difficulty of dealing with deployments, where husbands are away for long periods.“To be honest, I don’t like it, but I think I will get used to it,” she said.Despite the challenges, she encouraged more young women to join military wives’ activities and build stronger support networks.“Encouraging more young girls to come out and join is important. When issues come up, we can help each other and find solutions together,” she said.Another first-time attendee, Merolyn Yadomwalu from the hosting unit at Force Support Battalion (FSB), Murray Barracks, said the convention has been life changing as it provided her with access to information and support systems she previously did not know existed.Living inside the barracks, Merolyn said she was grateful to finally understand where to seek help when challenges arise.“I am happy to have this convention because I don’t know where to seek information if anything happens to me, my children or my husband. Now I know there is a support system I can run to,” she said.Merolyn said the convention has strengthened her faith and personal resilience, adding that she plans to take what she has learned back to other mothers who were unable to attend.She encouraged other military wives to come forward and participate in similar gatherings, saying experience shared by older wives is valuable guidance for younger women.“We need to come together and learn from mothers who have been in the system. They already have experience, and they can guide us when things come up in the barracks life,” she said.Merolyn also highlighted the importance of social connection between wives from different barracks, saying the convention helps build relationships that can support families if members are later transferred.“Sometimes our husbands get posted to different barracks, so meeting other wives helps us know people and build support wherever we go,” she said.Both women agreed that the convention has created a stronger sense of unity, encouragement and awareness among military wives, especially for younger participants navigating life in the Defence Force community.

A young military wife has shared her experience navigating life in the Papua New Guinea Defence Force community, highlighting the emotional and practical challenges that come with deployments, limited housing access, and learning to adapt to military systems.Pamela Tommy, spouse of Sergeant Tommy from Air Transport Wing (ATW) based at Kiki Barracks under the Air Transport Section, said her journey as a young wife and working mother in the military environment has been both challenging and educational.She said one of her biggest struggles has been coping with long deployment periods, where soldiers are sent on operations for months at a time, often extending beyond expected timelines.“When they go out for operations in the Highlands, sometimes they stay six months, even eight months or more. As a young mother, it was very difficult because I was also working and raising a child,” she said.Pamela explained that living arrangements added further pressure, particularly when families are not housed inside the barracks. She said priority for housing is often given based on family size, which left her renting outside the military compound during her early years of marriage.She said being outside the barracks also created challenges around communication, movement, and accessing support, especially during deployment periods.“We had marriage certificates, but sometimes housing priority depends on number of children. At that time, I only had my first baby, so we were renting outside,” she said.Pamela said the emotional toll of deployment was significant, particularly as a young mother with limited immediate support. Although communication with her husband was possible, she said distance and security protocols often made matters more complicated.“Even when we talk on the phone, there are security procedures and communication channels to follow. Sometimes it felt overwhelming,” she said.Despite these challenges, Pamela said joining a military wives’ association has helped her better understand the system and access support networks within the Defence Force community.She said the association provides a vital platform for wives to raise concerns, seek guidance and better understand military processes, particularly around deployment and welfare matters.Pamela also said attending conventions and engaging with other military wives has helped her grow in confidence and awareness of available support structures.“The association is like the voice for mothers in the barracks. It helps us understand deployment issues, housing matters and how to support each other,” she said.She encouraged young military wives to remain patient, seek help when needed and build strong support systems instead of facing challenges alone.Pamela also shared a personal reflection on adjusting to military life, acknowledging that relationships require understanding and resilience in a demanding environment.“My encouragement to young wives is to be strong, be patient and learn how to support each other. Military life is not easy, but we can help one another through it,” she said.Her story reflects the wider experiences of many military families, where separation, relocation and structured systems shape daily life, but where support networks continue to play a crucial role in helping families adapt and cope.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has called on Papua New Guinea to continue playing a leading role in addressing the Pacific's most pressing challenges, emphasizing that stronger regional cooperation is essential for the future of Melanesia.Speaking after bilateral talks with Prime Minister James Marape in Port Moresby, Prime Minister Wale noted that Papua New Guinea's size, resources, and regional influence place it in a unique position to provide vital leadership, both within Melanesia and across the wider Pacific.Wale expressed his gratitude to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea for the warm welcome extended to his delegation. He described his first official visit as Prime Minister as a crucial opportunity to deepen relations between two nations long connected by history, culture, and faith.The relationship between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, Wale noted, is rooted in centuries of shared Melanesian ancestry and has been strengthened over generations through church missions, cultural exchanges, and close people-to-people links. He reaffirmed that the Solomon Islands values Papua New Guinea as a trusted partner and seeks closer collaboration on security, economic development, climate resilience, and Pacific unity.A key issue raised during the bilateral meeting was the future of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG). Prime Minister Wale asserted that the regional body has the potential to play a much stronger role in advancing the interests of Melanesian nations, urging member states to work together to improve the organization's effectiveness and decision-making processes.The Solomon Islands Prime Minister also addressed the issue of West Papua, stating that Pacific leaders should continue engaging Indonesia through respectful dialogue while consistently raising concerns about the human rights situation affecting Melanesian people. He added that his discussions with Prime Minister Marape explored ways to encourage constructive engagement with Indonesia without undermining the vital relationships Pacific nations maintain with their regional neighbor.Economic cooperation emerged as another top priority, particularly regarding the development of the Solomon Islands' emerging mining industry. Wale explained that his country is eager to learn from Papua New Guinea's extensive experience in resource development and governance to ensure mineral wealth delivers lasting benefits to local communities.Reflecting on the impact of decades of unsustainable logging in the Solomon Islands, Prime Minister Wale stressed that his government is determined to avoid similar mistakes in the mining sector by tightening governance and promoting responsible investment.To achieve this, he invited Papua New Guinean mining companies and state-owned enterprises to invest in the Solomon Islands, noting that partnerships between Melanesian countries make it easier to resolve challenges through mutual understanding and shared cultural values.Prime Minister Wale welcomed Prime Minister Marape's planned visit to Honiara later this year, noting it will provide an excellent opportunity for both governments to advance discussions and build on the commitments made in Port Moresby.The future of the region, Wale concluded, ultimately depends on Melanesian countries working together, learning from one another, and building partnerships that will benefit their people for generations to come.

Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have taken a major step toward strengthening their bilateral relationship by signing a new Framework Agreement on Development and Economic Cooperation. The accord will guide collaboration between the two nations from 2026 to 2030.The agreement was finalized following high-level bilateral talks in Port Moresby between Prime Minister James Marape and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, who is making his first official visit to Papua New Guinea since taking office.Prime Minister Marape described the meeting as an important milestone for the two Melanesian nations, noting that the agreement provides a clear roadmap for closer cooperation in trade, investment, security, infrastructure, economic development, and regional affairs.He emphasized that Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have enjoyed decades of friendship extending well beyond their years as independent nations, rooted in a shared Melanesian ancestry, cultural traditions, and Christian values.As both countries move into the next chapter of their nationhood—with Papua New Guinea celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and the Solomon Islands approaching the same milestone in 2028—Marape stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships that will benefit future generations.The high-level discussions focused on mutual challenges, including border security, economic diversification, climate change, regional stability, and the shifting geopolitical landscape in the Pacific.The Prime Minister reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's full support for the Solomon Islands' leadership within the Pacific Islands Forum, stating that the two countries will continue working together to ensure Pacific voices are amplified on critical issues like trade, climate action, and regional security.Marape also highlighted the robust economic links between the neighbors, noting that the Solomon Islands remains the largest destination for Papua New Guinean investment in the Pacific.Papua New Guinea has invested more than K1 billion in the Solomon Islands through companies operating in agriculture, telecommunications, and various other industries. Marape encouraged businesses from both nations to continue exploring cross-border investment opportunities.Additionally, the two leaders discussed establishing closer trade arrangements among Melanesian countries—including Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Fiji, and Vanuatu—to drive economic integration and encourage a greater flow of goods and investment within the region.Marape confirmed that his government will now develop a detailed implementation plan to execute the commitments outlined in the new cooperation framework. He also announced plans to visit the Solomon Islands in the near future to hold further discussions on expanding bilateral cooperation and identifying practical, mutually beneficial projects.The Prime Minister concluded that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring Melanesian countries work hand-in-hand to promote peace, prosperity, and sustainable development across the region.

Family and sexual violence remains a major concern across Papua New Guinea (PNG), with thousands of cases continuing to be reported each year, according to statistics presented at the 9th Biannual Military Wives Convention.During a Family Sexual Violence Awareness Program hosted at the Don Bosco Technical Institute (DBTI) in Port Moresby city, officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's Family Sexual Violence Unit shared data highlighting the scale of the issue nationwide.The figures showed that more than 6,900 criminal family and sexual violence cases and over 3,500 civil matters were reported to Family Sexual Violence Units throughout the country in 2025.Between January and May this year alone, more than 5,200 criminal cases and nearly 2,800 civil matters had already been recorded.Among the most commonly reported criminal offences were assault, threatening words, insulting language, threatening behaviour, psychological abuse, aggravated assault, property damage and child neglect.Civil matters frequently reported included adultery, child custody disputes, maintenance issues, separation and cases involving neglect of mothers and children.The presentation also revealed that women continue to make up the majority of complainants in family and sexual violence cases, while men account for most perpetrators reported to authorities.FSVU officers used the statistics to highlight the ongoing need for public awareness, stronger support systems and increased reporting of violence-related incidents.Participants were also educated on the cycle of violence, which includes periods of tension building, violent incidents, denial and reconciliation, often making it difficult for victims to permanently leave abusive relationships.The session explored some of the reasons women remain in abusive situations, including financial dependence, fear, concern for children, family pressure, lack of support, low self-esteem and hope that the perpetrator will change.Officers emphasised that violence should never be accepted as normal and encouraged victims to seek help through the Family Sexual Violence Unit and other support agencies.Military wives attending the convention were urged to use the information gained during the session to educate their families and communities and help create safer environments for women and children.The awareness program concluded with a call for greater community involvement in preventing family and sexual violence and ensuring victims receive the support and protection they need.

Military wives attending the 9th Biennial Military Wives Convention have been urged to take proactive steps to protect their health through regular medical check-ups and cervical cancer screening.The awareness session, presented by Critical Care Nurse Specialist Sr Nathalie Mosh of the Murray Barracks Clinic, highlighted the growing impact of non-communicable diseases and cervical cancer on women in Papua New Guinea.Sr Mosh described cervical cancer as one of the leading cancers affecting women in the country, noting that many cases are detected at an advanced stage when treatment options become more limited.She told participants that cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern in Papua New Guinea, with hundreds of women losing their lives to the disease each year.The presentation explained that persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV, is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Other risk factors include smoking, weakened immunity, multiple sexual partners, and a lack of regular screening.Women were informed that symptoms may include abnormal bleeding, bleeding after intercourse, pelvic pain and unusual discharge, although early stages of the disease often show no warning signs.For this reason, participants were encouraged to undergo regular cervical screening tests and seek medical advice promptly if they experience any concerning symptoms.The session also highlighted the growing burden of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity, stroke, heart disease and high blood pressure, which continue to affect many families across the country.Health survey findings from Murray Barracks conducted in 2022 revealed concerning levels of obesity and high blood pressure among women who participated in health checks, underscoring the need for greater awareness and prevention efforts.Military wives were encouraged to adopt healthier lifestyles by increasing their intake of fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, exercising regularly and reducing their consumption of foods high in salt, sugar and fat.Ms. Mosh emphasised that prevention and early detection remain the most effective tools in reducing the impact of both cervical cancer and lifestyle-related diseases.The presentation ended with a call for women to take ownership of their health, support one another and become advocates for regular health screening and healthy living within their families and communities.“Choose health, choose hope and choose life,” participants were told as the session concluded.

Understanding when and how to seek help was a key message delivered to military wives during a Family Sexual Violence Awareness Program held as part of the 9th Biannual Military Wives Convention in Port Moresby.Officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's Family Sexual Violence Unit shared information on domestic violence, victims' rights and the support services available to those affected by abuse.Acting Director of the Family Sexual Violence Directorate, Chief Sergeant Job Eremugo and Deputy Director Senior Sergeant Wasima Kauvianda led the awareness session, outlining the role of the Family Sexual Violence Unit and the support mechanisms available to victims throughout the country.The officers explained that the unit was established in 2009 and now operates 54 Family Sexual Violence Units with 98 personnel stationed across Papua New Guinea's 22 provinces.Participants were informed that the unit receives and registers complaints, investigates cases, apprehends offenders, assists victims to obtain Interim Protection Orders, prepares court files and works closely with other agencies to ensure victims receive appropriate support and protection.The presentation highlighted that family and sexual violence can take many forms, including physical assault, verbal abuse, intimidation, threats and psychological abuse.Women attending the convention were reminded that victims are not limited to adult women, but also include children, the elderly, persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable members of society.FSVU officers stressed the importance of reporting incidents early and preserving evidence such as photographs of injuries, damaged property, clothing, and electronic communications that may assist investigations.Participants also learned about the reporting process, with Family Sexual Violence Units serving as the first point of contact for most family and sexual violence cases. Depending on the nature of the complaint, victims may be referred for medical treatment, legal assistance, counselling services or protection orders.The officers acknowledged that many victims continue to face challenges after reporting abuse, including intimidation by perpetrators, family pressure, and a lack of supportive environments.The session also examined the cycle of violence, including periods of tension, abuse, denial and reconciliation, which often make it difficult for victims to leave abusive relationships. Factors such as fear, financial dependence, family expectations and concern for children were identified as common reasons victims remain in violent situations.Military wives were encouraged to support one another, seek help when needed and use the information gained during the session to raise awareness within their families and communities.The awareness session forms part of the convention's broader focus on empowering military wives with knowledge and practical tools to strengthen families, promote safety and contribute to violence-free communities.

Military wives from across Papua New Guinea have been encouraged to place greater emphasis on their own health and wellbeing while continuing to support their families and communities.The message was delivered during a health awareness presentation at the 9th biennial Military Wives Convention currently underway in Port Moresby.Critical Care Nurse Specialist Sr. Nathalie Mosh from the Murray Barracks Clinic presented a session on empowering military wives to overcome stress, prevent lifestyle diseases and protect their overall health.Speaking to participants, Sr Mosh acknowledged the important role military wives play in supporting their spouses, raising children and maintaining strong family units within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force community.She said the demands of military life often place significant pressure on women, particularly during deployments, extended work commitments, financial challenges and family responsibilities.According to the presentation, prolonged and unmanaged stress can negatively affect mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing, contributing to conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and strained family relationships.Sr Mosh encouraged participants to recognise the signs of stress early, including fatigue, headaches, poor sleep, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.She outlined practical ways women can better manage stress, including maintaining regular prayer and devotion, engaging in physical exercise, getting adequate rest, eating nutritious foods and seeking support from trusted friends, family members or health professionals when needed.The session drew inspiration from the convention theme, “Arise Esthers! For Such a Time as This,” based on the biblical story of Queen Esther, whose courage, wisdom and resilience were highlighted as qualities military wives can emulate in their daily lives.Participants were reminded that caring for their own health is not only beneficial to them personally but also strengthens their ability to support their families and contribute positively to their communities.The presentation concluded with a call for military wives to rise above challenges, prioritise self-care and become role models for healthier living within their households and across the wider PNGDF family.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has stepped up its efforts to promote gender equality and family welfare through its Directorate of Gender, Peace and Security with a focus on creating safer and more inclusive environments for personnel and their families.Addressing participants at the 9th PNGDF Military Wives Convention at Murray Barracks, Director of Gender, Peace and Security Captain Imelda Divina highlighted the important role the directorate plays in supporting serving members and their families while enhancing the overall effectiveness of the force.Captain Divina said the PNGDF Gender Committee was established in 2016 to address policy gaps and improve support for servicewomen. Over the years, its role has expanded to include servicemen and defence families, recognising that strong and resilient families contribute to a stronger Defence Force.She said the directorate's work is guided by the National Constitution's principles of equality and participation, while also supporting national and international commitments on gender equality and women's participation in peace and security.Among its key priorities are improving policies, providing training and education, strengthening governance and reporting systems, and ensuring gender perspectives are integrated into military operations and decision-making processes.The directorate has also introduced a range of training programs, including Gender Sensitisation, Gender Focal Point and Gender Advisor courses, aimed at building awareness and strengthening leadership capacity throughout the force.Captain Divina also outlined several policies that have been developed or are currently being progressed, including policies on sexual harassment, parental leave, accommodation, grooming standards, fraternisation among members and unacceptable behaviour.A major focus of the directorate's work is the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence, both within the workplace and at home. Through awareness programs, policy reforms and partnerships with government agencies and support organisations, the PNGDF is working to create safer environments for its members and their families.Captain Divina said Gender, Peace and Security is not simply about increasing the number of women in the force but ensuring that both women and men are given equal opportunities to contribute, lead and participate in decision-making.She encouraged military families to continue supporting the initiatives being implemented across the PNGDF, adding that lasting change can only be achieved when everyone works together to create a more inclusive, respectful and effective Defence Force.

Mrs. Elvin Iramu, President of the Joint Forces Academy Military Wives Association, has called for stronger family support measures and improved reunion arrangements for serving personnel during the 9th Bi-annual Military Wives Convention currently underway in Port Moresby.Mrs. Iramu, whose husband serves as a Physical Training Instructor at the Joint Forces Academy, was among delegates presenting issues and recommendations on behalf of families living in Igam Barracks.She said the week-long convention has provided an important platform for military wives to share their experiences, raise matters affecting their families and contribute ideas that could help strengthen support systems within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.Mrs. Iramu said one of the most valuable aspects of the convention is the opportunity for military wives from different barracks across the country to meet and build lasting relationships."Our husbands often know each other because they have trained and served together throughout their careers, but as wives we rarely have the opportunity to meet and connect," she said.Mrs. Iramu said the convention allows women to establish support networks, share experiences and maintain communication with families from other military communities.Representing Igam Barracks, she highlighted the importance of reunion arrangements for personnel serving away from their families, particularly those attached to training institutions or deployed on operations for extended periods.She said maintaining strong family connections contributes positively to the wellbeing of both serving members and their loved ones and supports a stable home environment.Mrs. Iramu encouraged continued discussions on ways to strengthen reunion arrangements and family support initiatives, noting that military families play an important role in supporting personnel throughout their service.She said the convention provides a constructive avenue for military spouses to share recommendations and contribute to ongoing conversations about the welfare and wellbeing of Defence Force families.Mrs. Iramu also acknowledged the important role played by chaplains, commanding officers and Defence Force leaders in listening to the concerns and suggestions raised throughout the convention.She expressed hope that discussions and recommendations from this year's gathering would continue to contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening military communities and supporting families across the country.Faith and fellowship, she said, remain central to military family life and continue to provide encouragement and strength for women supporting serving members.Mrs. Iramu described being a military wife as both a privilege and a responsibility, saying the convention has empowered women to embrace leadership roles within their families and communities.She said the convention theme, "Arise Esthers: for Such a Time as This," serves as a reminder that military spouses have an important role to play in supporting their families, communities and the wider Defence Force.The Military Wives Convention continues throughout the week, bringing together more than 300 delegates from military units nationwide to discuss ways of strengthening support networks, promoting family wellbeing and enhancing the role of military spouses within the Defence Force community.