The new Environment, Conservation and Climate Change Minister, has promised to build new homes for Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), and Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) officers. Minister John Kaupa highlighted that one of his top priorities in the 8 months before the 2027 National General Election is to roll out the Housing Scheme for Environment and Conservation Authority before his time is up.The new homes would be built at the Wildlife Conversation area in Port Moresby city, which has been sitting vacant for decades.“Urbanising all settlement to settlements to suburb with land titles under the Settlement to Suburb program has been one of my top priorities in my district and in this limited 8 months I want to live behind a legacy where not only CCDA and CEPA officers will benefit from but their families as well and that is the housing scheme."“I am good at it and will make it happen”.Kaupa mentioned that over the last decade, Ministers after ministers came and left, groundbreaking ceremony took place but still no development has occurred on the vacant land at Wildlife.“CCDA AND CEPA should have homes built for them on this empty wildlife land before I go, we will subdivision into this wildlife land a total of 100 homes depending on the size of the land.”Kaupa added that before the end of next month, his ministry should have and prepare all documents in order, titles, plan and will do an official groundbreaking ceremony, then get investors in put the land on tender for successful bidder to start building.“I’ll do NEC submission. Ge approval, get it done. I am good at it, I'll make it!”He further assured all senior staff of CEPA and CCDA who have been struggling to own a house and have been renting in the settlements that their struggles will soon cease, and they will have better roofs over their heads soon.For 15 donkey years, this land at Wildlife has been sitting there untouched and undeveloped and it might continue to sit idle for another 10 years and then it will attract squatters to come squat illegally on it, regarding it as free state land so this land must be developed now says Kaupa.“If I cannot do it, if CCDA MD Debra Sungi and CEPA MD Jude Tukuliya cannot do it now then who else will?”Kaupa said he had converse with Prime Minister James Marape regarding the housing scheme already, his talked to NEC already and is waiting NEC approval and then once NEC give approval then work can start for housing scheme.

Climate Change Development Authority, management and the Board of Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA) has established some very key reforms in the las ten years, highlighting a lot of progress was made under the leadership of the current Government the Marape Rosso Government. CCDA Acting Managing Director Ms. Debra Sungi in her recent speech during the recent hand overtake over ceremony of the former Climate Change Ministers Simo Kilepa and now Minister, John Kaupa, highlighted one of the greatest achievements was the establishment of the CCDA Board and this was made possible last year under the leadership of former Climate Change Minister Kilepa.“CCDA now fully has an eleven-member board, the Chairman is the Managing Director for National Energy Authority, and the Depuy Chairman is the Managing Director for Forest, two ex-official members who seats at the board including CEPA who is one of the key board directors”, said Ms.Sungi.Sungi further elaborated that this progress in terms of establishing governance is one of the very key foundations for any government agencies.For CCDA, apart from establishing the National Climate Change (NCC) Board, they have also made amendment to the Climate Change Act 2023.“The amendment of the climate change management act sets the foundation for the establishment of the National Climate change boards as well as the most and important key element in establishing our Carbon market regulation.”“For the first time under the Carbon Market Regulations, we have issued a total of six permits this year and we have two more in the pipeline that we hope to issue their permits in the next board meeting”.This clearly shows that if there is a strong governance system with established key transparent and accountable process set out in place, nothing will go wrong in terms of implementation.Ms. Sungi also added that under the leadership of former Minister, CCDA was able to achieve great mobilization of Climate Finance to establish more than a US$100,50 million last year alone.“We know we will continue on these progressive achievements under the ministry and leadership of Minister John Kaupa and the Marape Rosso Government for the next eight months to see progress on what we have in our work plans and what we would like to achieve by the end of this year and also going into next year”.It will be a challenging time for Minister Kaupa noting that there is just almost 6 months before the issuing of writs, but CCDA and CEPA know and trust Kaupa will be very supportive with his ministerial duties.Ms. Sungi thanked Kaupa for putting his hand up to tackle the actions for Climate Actions in the country.“We are at the very crucial time of seeing the frequent natural disasters, but we hope and we know that with your leadership you will bring us forward in terms of achieving our preparedness efforts in the country and or mitigation efforts as well”.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government, through the Directorate of Disaster and Emergency announces the successful repatriation of two fisherman from Lontis Village, Haku Constituency, who have safely returned home after surviving fourteen days adrift at sea and being found on Tanga Island in New Ireland Province.  Secretary of the Department of Community Government, Belinda Gara-Lanbong, when welcoming the survivors, described the repatriation as a moment of relief and renewed responsibility of all stakeholders involved. “Today, we welcome two fishermen of Lontis, Haku – sons of Bougainville who endured the uncertainty of the open sea and now have returned safely to their families.""Their repatriation is a moment of relief, gratitude and renewed responsibility for all of us,” she said. The fishermen – Gordon Malle and Arnold Musein who were lost at sea for fourteen days were washed ashore on Tanga island in New Ireland Province and safely transported to Bougainville yesterday by Manalos Helicopter, made possible through the Lloyds Metal and Energy Limited (LMEL).Their successful extraction was the result of a coordinated effort involving the ABG Directorate of Disaster and Emergency, the New Ireland Provincial Government, local authorities and the people of Tanga Island.Secretary Mrs. Lanbong acknowledged the pivotal role was played by Lloyds Metal Energy Limited (LMEL), whose timely support provided a helicopter to airlift the survivors directly from Tanga back to Buka, describing it as "responsible partnership" for ensuring a safe and efficient repatriation. The men had gone out fishing on a Saturday two weeks ago, however, upon their return trip, they ran out of fuel and encountered strong winds and heavy rain that caused their boat to drift off course, venturing out to open seas.According to Arnold Musein, they realized too late that there was no fuel to get them home and armed with only a wooden paddle, and no phone or torch, they drifted further away from home, praying and surviving on rainwater and floating dry coconuts for two weeks. “Mipla tirip tasol long tait, win na rain igo inap mi pla lukim hap maunten na mipla tingim olsem em mas Tangaa, na taim mipla sua, mipla apim emty container na ol man lukim mipla na oli ron kam helpim mipla,” he said.(“We drifted with the tide, strong wind and rain until we saw a mountain in the distance and assumed it was Tangaa. We managed to get the boat to the island and raised an empty container and people from the island ran out to help us.”)They were thankful to God and everyone who assisted to bring them home to reunite with their families.“Mipla tok tenk u lo God na olgeta lain were ol wok bung long bringim mipla kam bek long peles. Tenk yu long ol famili lo Tangaa na Tanir Ward 5 LLG long lukaut bilong ol inap mipla kam bek,” he added.(“We thank God and all that worked together to bring us safely back home. We also thank the families at Tangaa and Tanir Ward 5 LLG for their hospitality until we returned.”) The repatriation was also done through the collaborative efforts of the Office of the National Member for North Bougainville, Hon. Francesca Semoso, and the Office of the ABG Member for Haku, Hon. Patrick Koles.Secretary Lanbong also issued a stern warning to all coastal communities regarding the increasing dangers of maritime travel. She emphasized that the ocean is changing "faster and more unpredictably" due to intensified surges and shifting weather systems. "Our people must take heed of weather warnings, maritime advisories, and strong wind alerts. We cannot afford to lose Bougainvilleans to avoidable risks," Gara-Lanbong urged. The Secretary also reminded the public that while this mission was a success, the work is not yet finished.The ABG Disaster and Emergency is also in the middle of another separate operation to locate three persons still missing from Nissan Island. 

Seven (7) amazing aspiring women in seven categories were recognised for their contribution to the community and to the country last night, Saturday 25th July 2026, at the 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women AWARDS (WOWA). The 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA recognised these seven inspiring women who are making a big difference in Papua New Guinea through their leadership, commitment and the work they do in their communities, and these winners were recognised in seven different categories: Entrepreneurship, Not-for-Profit, Private Sector, Public Sector, Sports & Arts, Sustainability, and Young Achiever.The Westpac Oustanding Women Awards recognises excellence across a diverse range of sector, reflecting the breadth of talent, ambition and impact demonstrated by woman throughout the country and this year, more than 200 nominations were received from across the country, and through judging panels only 3 each were selected from each category and then out of the three finalists only one came out winner from respective category. Their stories showed the talent, courage and the positive influence they have in their space and the difference each woman has made in the lives of others, and the work they do to make this country a better country.Speaking at the awards ceremony, Westpac Board Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley said: "As Chairwoman of the Board, I am incredibly proud to celebrate the women recognised through these awards. Their achievements demonstrate the power of leadership and resilience to create meaningful change in our communities.""The Westpac Outstanding Women Awards recognise women who are breaking barriers, creating opportunities for others and helping shape a stronger future for our nation.”The Seven (7) category winners were:• ENTREPRENEUR CATEGORY – MARTHA RAKA Ms. Martha Raka was the winner for Entrepreneur Category, and she was given this award in recognition of the work she does as a social entrepreneur and cooperative development practitioner who us transforming rural livelihoods in Papua New Guinea. With over seven years' experience she leads climate resilient cooperative enterprises, engaging more than 1,500 farmers, strengthening incomes, governance and sustainability. Her Innovative, multi-stakeholders approach integrates community, government and private sector investment scalable impact, empowering women, building local leadership and driving inclusive economic growth across vulnerable communities. • NOT-FOR-PROFIT CATEGORY – JACQUELIN MARY BOGA GAROAU Jacqueline Mary Boga Garoau is a distinguished lawyer and the national advocate for persons with disabilities and women in PNG. As a former famale co- chair of PNGADP, she played a key role in consultations leading to Disability Services Act 2025. She is currently serving at the provincial level, continuing to empower communities and PWDs . • PRIVATE SECTOR CATEGORY – STELLA IPANG Ms. Ipang was recognised for her leadership in transforming and advancing Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) across Papua New Guinea’s health sector. She has driven the integration of inclusive practices in immunisation programs through innovative tools such as a GEDSI Action plan and Scorecard. Stella is also the creator of the EmpowerMe Puzzle, showcased internationally, and she is the author of My Action Words. Her work has helped support more inclusive healthcare for women, children and marginalised communities.•PUBLIC SECTOR CATEGORY – ELIZABETH TANDOA Ms. Tandoa is and household name in Gerehu Secondary school for decades, a transformational education leader and deputy principal, where she has driven remarkable improvements in discipline, academic performance, and student development through holistic programs. She is a passionate community advocate; she runs a literacy and numeracy program for over 10 years now, empowering young kids to succeed. • SUSTANABILITY CATEGORY - EMMA OLIVER She is a Marine Biologist, educator and founder of ENB Sea Keepers and ENB Marine Conservation Consultancy services, a leading community driven marine conservation initiative in PNG. Her work spans around coral restoration, biodiversity research and environmental education powering coastal communities with sustainable livelihood solutions. A One Young World Ambassador (2024) she combines scientific expertise, indigenous knowledge and global advocacy to advance locally led conservation and position in PNG's environment priorities on the international stage. • SPORTS AND ARTS CATEGORY – WOSI KAEYO  Wosi is a dynamic PNG Film Producer at the Jona Film Production, best known for Plesman 1 and Plesman 2, through her leadership she uses the films to address critical national issues including youth unemployment, tribal conflict, and women empowerment. Her work inspires communities to embrace self-reliance, peace, and development, while creating opportunities for local talents.• YOUNG ACHIEVER CATEGORY – GETTA KAMBAR Is an award-winning young leader and trailblazer in construction, community engagement and youth empowerment. She also uses sports and community initiatives to inspire young women, promote inclusion and drive social change. Her leadership has also earned her the CPL Young woman of the Year Award and Pride of Women Young Leader Awards. Out of the 7 winners, the 2026 Overall Winner was Stella Ipang, who was also Private Sector Category winner, as the overall Winner, Stella will receive a PGK 5,000 grant and a full-year mentorship program with Westpac PNG, and she will also attend an Australian executive leadership symposium in 2026 or 2027.Emma Low, Managing Director for Westpac Pacific, said: "Stella’s commitment to advancing inclusion and improving health outcomes has created tangible benefits for communities across Papua New Guinea. Her achievements stood out among an exceptional group of finalists and reflected the spirit of these awards."Reflecting on the recognition, Stella Ipang said: "Receiving this award is an honor. I am grateful to do work that has a positive impact on our community. I hope this recognition encourages more women and young girls to pursue their ambitions, embrace leadership opportunities and believe in their ability to make a difference.”Westpac PNG is proud to celebrate these outstanding women and the work they continue to do for their families, communities and the country. Chief Executive for Westpac PNG, Andrew Cairns said: “At Westpac PNG, we are proud to recognise these outstanding women and the positive impact they are making across the country.""Their leadership, courage and commitment show what is possible when people step forward to serve their communities and help build a stronger Papua New Guinea. I congratulate all the finalists and winners and thank them for the difference they continue to make.”Westpac is proud to provide a platform to tell the stories of the finalists and the winners and in doing so, Westpac believes that the Awards will inspire the next generation of female leaders, because this platform not only celebrates individual success but the collective progress of women across PNG. 

In a formal hand overtake over ceremony yesterday morning, Friday 24th July 2026 at the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) office at Savanah Heights, Port Moresby, outgoing Minister for Environment and Conservation and member for Lufa District Simo Kilepa officially handed over the Ministry to the new Minister appointed Minister John Kaupa, member for Moresby Northeast.The ceremony was witnessed by Acting Managing Director for Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA) Ms. Debra Sungi and Managing Director for Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) Mr. Jude Tukuliya, other senior government officials, officers of CCDA and CEPA, officers of Moresby North East Office and the supporters of Mr. Kaupa.Mr. Kilepa in his outgoing speech congratulated Mr. Kaupa on his appointment, describing Mr. Kaupa as a senior citizen with vast experience in Ministry portfolio being a former Minister for Housing and he comes with experience and can take the ministry forward in the next 8 months before the next General Election.“I have full confidence in Kaupa, and I know he will deliver the outstanding matters that is left by me”.Mr. Kilepa further thanks all CCDA and CEPA staff and executives who have worked with him for the last 4 years, also extending gratitude to the Marape-Rosso Government for the opportunity to serve as minister and also acknowledging his Party Leader(United Resource Party) William Duma for appointing him as one of the Ministers.Kilepa added also that now that he is released from the duties as Minister, he will return home and focus on duties in his electorate.Accepting the portfolio, Mr. Kaupa thanked the Prime Minister and the Marape-Rosso Government for the confidence placed on him to look after the ministry for the remaining months before the next General Election.He thanked outgoing minister Mr. Kilepa for a job well done and promised to take on from where Kilepa left."I am here not to do anything new but to do what has been done and continue and move forward to see progress in the ministry," he said.Mr. Kaupa added that most times when a new Minister takes office, everyone thinks that everything will change, however this will not be the case as all were urged to work together to deliver and focus on what needs to be done.He also stressed the important role public servants play in any organisation to ensure continuity, stating that politicians come and go, Ministers change but managing directors, and officers are the bureaucrats and engineers of this organisation that keeps a ministry going.With more Climate projects relying on donors and partners, Kaupa reminded the officers to maintain standards, accountability and to deliver at this crucial time when this planet is heading into Green Energy.Kaupa called for a collaboration and unity in the ministry.CEPA Managing Director Jude Tukuliya, expressed gratitude and farewell also to the outgoing Minister and acknowledged the new Minister while also highlighting several outstanding projects and expressed confidence that the new minister would provide the leadership needed to deliver them.Also, CCDA Acting Managing Director Debra Sungi welcomed Minister Kaupa to his new role and into the ministry and pledged to work together with him, while she bid farewell to Mr. Kilepa as well as acknowledging the projects delivered and achievements achieved under Kilepa's leadership.“Under the ministry and leadership of John Kaupa, under the leadership of Marape Rosso Government, we will continue on in the next 8months to see progress on what we have in our work plans in what we want to achieve by this year and also going into next year as well”. “It will be a challenging time for the new minister noting that we have just almost 6 months before the issue of the writs, but we know and we trust that you will be supportive of us with the ministerial duties.”Ms. Sungi highlighted further thank Kaupa for putting his hand up to tackle the actions for Climate Actions in the country.“We are at the very crucial time of seeing the frequent natural disasters, but we hope and we know that with your leadership you will bring us forward in terms of achieving our preparedness efforts in the country and or mitigation efforts as well”.

About 98 households who were victims of recent eviction at 9mile Keme Community, Portions 1155 and 1156 were provided humanitarian assistance of food rations over the weekend by Member for Moresby Northeast and newly appointed member for Environment and Conservation, John Kaupa.During the presentation of the relief supplies of food ration, Minister Kaupa explained that on the day the eviction was carried there was no response from his Office and Governor Powes Parkop because there was already a court order served for the eviction.Kaupa added that he was not notified by the eviction order until the day of eviction, so there was nothing he could do in his power. Minister Kaupa assured the evicted victims of Portion 1155 and 1156 that his office will assist them to get equity compensation on properties destroyed as many had settled for almost forty (40) decades and have invested in their blocks."Because there was no notice of 14 days or 21 days served for settler to save your properties, you deserve justice."Kaupa further added that he will assist with their relocation. " Under the settlement to suburb program we have secure land tittle for settlers to resettle at Farea therefore I will assist block owners to resettle you."The Minister reminded all people of Moresby Northeast that if ever they face land issues, especially on State land, the best option is to seek his office for assistance on securing tittles."We have a lawyer engaged with our office and a surveyor also so, stop collecting offerings from block owners to pay lawyers or private surveyor, come seek assistance at the right place, failure to do so may and will possibly result in eviction."

The Member (MP) for Moresby North- East John Kaupa, who is now the new Minister for Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, is urging police to pursue proper procedures before evicting alleged illegal settlers.   The MP, who was addressing the 9-mile eviction in Port Moresby city that saw the removal of 98 homes at Portion 1155 - 1156 at Kema early this month, made a call to Police for better coordinate with electoral members office for future evictions, so that they can assist the people in their electorates with relocation, instead of them being forced to move.Speaking during the visit to the eviction site yesterday- Sunday July 19th, under humanitarian grounds, Kaupa said communication is essential to ensure affected families receive assistance before losing their homes.Addressing the displaced residents, Mr Kaupa appealed directly to the NCD and Central Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, the NCD Metropolitan Superintendent and police personnals , to formally notify local Members of Parliament and the National Capital District (NCD) Governor before enforcing eviction orders.He said while police are carrying out court orders, elected leaders should also be given an opportunity to prepare humanitarian support and alternative arrangements for affected communities.Mr. Kaupa said eviction notices often provide residents with 14 or 21 days' notice, and this period should also allow leaders to engage with affected families.Furthermore, Minister Kaupa highlighted that police must understand that there are 4 thinking compliances to guarantee an eviction exercise to proceed. They are:Eviction order or notice must first and foremost reach the District MP and NCD GovernorClear land title with Court OrderRegistered Plan of the land title- whereby the investor or the owner of the land must go into the area with a surveyor carry out demarcation of the correct boundary before bulldozing the arear Warrant of executionAll this is very important because failure to follow these four steps will only lead to conflict and greater loss of property. Mr. Kaupa stressed that many of the people affected by evictions are Papua New Guineans who have lived in their communities for years and even generations and they deserve to be treated with dignity."They are not foreigners. These are our own people who have invested their lives in these communities," he said.He acknowledged that while land ownership disputes are ultimately determined by the courts, many residents have invested significant time and money to building homes and raising families on these lands.Mr. Kaupa said police, government agencies and elected leaders should work together to minimise the humanitarian impact of future evictions.He reiterated that his appeal was not intended to stop lawful court orders but to improve communication so vulnerable families are not left without support.

One person has died and two boat operators swam to safety on Bai village shore whilst 27 others are still missing at sea following an unfortunate boat incident on the afternoon of Saturday 18th July in the waters of East New Britain Province (ENB).Two 60 Horsepower boats belonging to Parpar Ward of Duke of York and a 75HP vessel owned by Corey Dotty and belonging to Pangpang Paradise sunk between Pidgin Island and Duke of York after encountering very rough seas and strong winds late in the afternoon.The missing individuals include four senior ENB Provincial Health Authority (PHA) staff members and their families:Carol and Clive with their familiesRaymond Maramun and his familyManuel Sualis and his familyOther victims known include Corey Dotty Eron, Ward Member for Karavara, other passengers including children, remain missing at sea.Mr. Esekia Paul, Palpal Ward Recorder confirmed this, stating that two boats, one belonging to police and another belong to the Provincial Disaster Office were sent out for search and rescue yesterday and the search went as far towards the New Ireland Province because of the tide but was unsuccessful and was called off.East New Britain Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Amanda Kate gave an update this morning to relatives and the people of East New Britain stating the boats that were sent out for search and rescue operations were called off because of bad weather and a helicopter is sent to Lae with a co-pilot and two spotter to do search and rescue from Lae waters all the way to New Ireland and up to East New Britain, following the flow of the sea current.PPC Kate also added that it is over 24 hours and no progress has been made in the search and rescue mission and sadly this will now be a search and recovery mission.The National Maritime Safety Authority, ENB Disaster Authorities, police and immediate families are all involved in the search of the missing families and are also appealing to all seafarers, fishing vessels, coastal communities, and the public to keep an eye out for these individuals or any floating debris.“Please report any sightings or relevant information immediately to local police or disaster officials to aid in their safe rescue.”“We pray for the safety and swift recovery of the missing passengers during this incredibly difficult time.”

United Development Foundation (UDF), a locally established non- government and charitable foundation, which was recently registered with the Investment Promotion Authority in 2025 is now changing lives of youths, school children and locals in the remote district of Sol Nomane Karimui in Simbu Province.Foundation Director Mr. Joseph Boi highlighted that the establishment of the foundation is basically to improve lives of individuals and communities across Papua New Guinea though sustainable community development, education, empowerment and humanitarian assistance.“UDF is committed to promoting education by donation of library books and educational resources to assist disadvantage students to enhance their learning”.Recently two different donations of library books and resource books were made to Kaliwai Primary school as well as Doliba Primary school in Sol LLG of Sol Nomane Karimui District, Simbu Province.”On behalf of the two schools who received the donation, Mr. John Brul, Head Teacher of Doliba Primary school expressed gratitude to the UDF and Director Mr. Jospeh Boi for the generous support that will greatly enhance the student learning.“Your support is not only just books, but a bank of knowledge given to the children”.“We are grateful for your partnership and dedication to our schools in the district, and we look forward to a continued relationship as we continue to work together to create a better and brighter future for the children”, Mr. Brul added.UDF Director, Mr. Boi further added that the foundations other missions are restoring peace and reconciliations, women empowerment, youth empowerment, support to agricultural activities and livelihood, to promote climate resilience and environment conservation and partnership with churches through outreach programs.“Through collaboration with communities, government agencies, churches, development partners and volunteers, UDF strives to build peaceful, educated, resilient and self-reliant communities under the foundation’s motto, “Our People, Our Future”, aiming to reach the unreached and change lives.”

Fresh water fish farmers in the Highlands Region are urged to embrace for loss of fish lives and fish farming closing if El Nino persists.This was highlighted by Mr. Jacob Towa of Tower Fish Hatchery in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province. Mr. Towa stated that Tambul Nebiliyer District has been experiencing frost in recent times, and this has placed threat on Talipia and Curp fish who are often used to moderate temperature; however, for trout farming it continues as usual because trout fish love cold weather. Mr. Towa further added that if the El Nino pattern persists, water levels in all fishponds will dry out and it will be a serious disaster for all freshwater fish farmers. "Most farmers depend on creeks to supply fresh water supply into their fishponds and sadly most creeks are drying up slowly."Towa also stated that he is afraid that if El Nino continues, his fingerling supply chain in Western Highlands province and throughout the highland region will collapse in business, however at this time he is preparing for the worst. "Right now, I am getting ready for the worst, I have my pipes ready, my water pump ready and hoses ready to pump water from the nearby river into my ponds if and when water starts to dry or drop.""I would like to urge other fish farmers to also buy water pumps and pipes to use to pump fresh water to their ponds when pond starts to dry up". Towa further advised fish farmers to take note that when bringing in fresh water into their ponds, they are to let the water run into the ponds for about 1-2 hours in the morning and during the evening, thus, this will help supply oxygen to the fishes in their ponds. "Fresh water fish farming is our livelihoods, and I would like to call on local members and provincial government to make funds available to assist not only fish farmers but other famers also to be disaster prepared during this El Nino period".

Eight modern tractors were officially handed over to the Norikori Rice Project in Obura-Wonenara District, in the Eastern Highlands Province recently.To mark a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s journey into achieving rice self-sufficiency, the Republic of Korea has come onboard with the donation of the eight (8) modern tractors on Thursday, 25 June 2026, thus making a major milestone in the country’s efforts to reduce its dependence on imported rice while creating new opportunities for farmers, rural communities and the national economy.These tractors were donated by the Republic of Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), while additional modern rice farming machinery and equipment were funded by the National Government through the Department of Agriculture and Livestock.All the equipments were officially handed over by His Excellency Choi Jong Ho, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Papua New Guinea, in the presence of Hon. John Boito, Minister for Agriculture, Dr Sergie Bang, Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, and Mr. Koren Rokas Maso, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Rice and Grain Board. Also present was Ms. Jeong-Eun Song, KOICA Country Director, a visiting KOICA regional representative, Eastern Highlands Provincial Administrator Mr. Allan Los, other dignitaries including the local-level government presidents, ward councilors, customary landowners, and the Obura-Wonenara people.The ceremony highlighted the enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea and the Republic of Korea, built on a shared vision of strengthening food security, improving agricultural productivity, creating employment and promoting sustainable rural development.Speaking during the event, Minister Boito thanked the Government and people of the Republic of Korea and KOICA for their continued investment in Papua New Guinea’s agriculture sector.He said agriculture remains one of the Marape-Rosso Government’s highest priorities as it seeks to transform the national economy by empowering local farmers to produce more food domestically.“Every bag of rice we produce here in Papua New Guinea represents income for our farmers, employment for our people and money that stays within our economy instead of flowing overseas through imports,” Minister Boito said.He added that the Government was committed to accelerating rice development and commercialisation across the country and had appointed Mr.Maso, through a National Executive Council decision, to lead the expansion of the national rice programme.Minister Boito said future commercial rice operations were expected to be expanded to areas including Unggai-Bena in Eastern Highlands Province, Baiyer in Western Highlands Province, Vanapa and Launakala in Central Province, and the Central Sepik Plains.He further highlighted that the Norikori Rice Project would serve as a national demonstration center, showcasing modern mechanised farming, farmer training, technology transfer and commercial rice production techniques that could be replicated throughout Papua New Guinea. The newly delivered machinery is expected to improve every stage of rice production, from land preparation and planting to harvesting and post-harvest processing. It will also allow the project to increase production while providing practical training for farmers from across the country.

Four (4) hours' drive out of Popondetta town and into the forest of Ijivitari District in Afore Local Level Government lies the ruins of what was ones a beautiful busy Bird Watching area and Guest house.The Duivi Bird Watch Guest house and sanctuary was first established in 2007 by local member David Arore when he was first elected to power as member for Ijivitari.The Duivi Bird Watch Guest house and sanctuary is located at the ward 1 of Afore LLG and was put under the watch of Chief Daniel Bonu of the Onduru Village.Full ownership was given to the locals to manage the Duivi Watch Guest House and the Bird watching sanctuary; however, with no proper management, in less than a decade the Guest house ran down and the Bird watching program ended.Today the ruins remind as another empty old run-down structure right in the middle of the rain forest.A youth from Afore and member of Managalas Conservation Youth Foundation Mr. Deil Sariusa highlighted that back in the glory days of the Duivi Bird Watch Guest house, tourists would come from all over the world, especially bird watchers to take in the setting and watch some of the most majestic and vibrant species of birds in the Managalas rain forest.“People stop for picnic at that particular area, wonderful waterfall, gracious, beautiful scenario and it’s surrounded by bird melodies, sadly this place now stands a ruin and a memory for us who knew about its existence.”“However, we the youths of Managalas are hopeful that one day these ruin structures will resurrect back to the vibrant life it once was,” said Mr. Sariusa.Sariusa emphasised the importance of restarting the bird watching program and the reestablishment of the run down Duivi Bird watch guest house, stating that the Bird watching guest house and sanctuary is right at the gate of Managalas Conservation area.“This needs to operate again so that tourist and visitors will get to experience the wonders of Managalas right at the gateway before exploring the entire Managalas Conservations area.”We are appealing to partners, donors and conservation organisation as well as the Tourism Promotion Authority to look into this and come to our aid and revive Duivi Bird Watch Guest house, because it will immensely benefit the locals.“If this opens again, it will open doors to economic opportunities, locals can sell their produce and artefacts and can benefit from being tour guides as well.”“We are also calling on our local member, David Arore to take the chance on this one project again and revive this project that he once established in the beginning of his political career.”