The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has successfully launched its groundbreaking Fisheries Automated Resources Information System (FARIS), a comprehensive Single Window Software Solution designed to revolutionize fisheries management in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The National Fisheries is proud of this significant achievement that emanated from the MTDP IV (2023 – 2027) in strategic priority area 8 on Government’s policy directive to become a digital Government, and more so aligning with the Digital Government Act of 2022, paving the way for government to use information and communication technologies. This new technology is aimed to enhance accessibility, reliability, and affordability of government digital services and ICT offerings for the citizens of PNG. The NFA Managing Director, Mr. Justin Ilakini, emphasized that the launch is a vital step in the Government's digital transformation strategy, connecting existing digital infrastructure with other government services to create a cohesive one-stop solution for citizens. In its totality, the FARIS solution consists of a suite of integrated modules, enabling NFA to manage fisheries, licensing controls, compliance, and accountability effectively. FARIS aims to: Streamline NFA internal processes. Increase productivity. Reduce duplication of NFA databases. Display near real-time financial transactions and analytics. Consolidate fisheries management with all information in a single platform. Monitor small craft and artisanal fishers effectively. Facilitate near real-time financial transactions and vessel monitoring with automated reporting and compliance tracking. Provide a secure and user-friendly interface. Enable control of NFA ICT systems within PNG computing facilities. The initial launch of the Fisheries Automated Resources Information System (FARIS) was done recently in Brisbane and featured two critical modules. Firstly, the Managing Director’s Financial Dashboard, providing near real-time insights into NFA's financial position through a direct data feed from the BSP Financial Group. This information will be accessible by the Managing Director at any time via laptop, PC, and mobile devices. The second module is the New Era in Marine Observation small craft tracking solution. This module displays all current vessel positions from VMS data within the PNG EEZ and beyond including position and situational data from NFA supplied NEMO units, in near real time. According to the critical timeline of the FARIS software rollout, all other FARIS modules are scheduled to be operational by December 2025, and this is a significant milestone achievement in the space of the Government’s ICT transformation agenda, as the country celebrates it’s 50 years of Independence. Regionally, FARIS will also provide a platform for the implementation of the East New Britain Initiative, moving the ENBi away from being aspirational in the vision of the Pacific Leader’s and now into a more practical sense, through offering a near real-time marketing and traceability platform for the marketing of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified fish. This integration also adheres to international best practices, collaborating with platforms such as the Global Fishing Watch, Global Dialogue on Seafood Traceability, and the UN Global Information Exchange System. Going forward, the FARIS is a testament of the NFA’s commitment to ensuring it delivers on the Government’s policy directives and the expectations of its key stakeholders, especially the citizens of PNG who deserve to have a government that is responsive to service delivery and is fit for purpose. "This system can be a model for sister government agencies and departments to emulate and customize for their purposes in service delivery to our citizens," said Mr.  Ilakini. Furthermore, FARIS can also provide bilateral partners and regional organizations within the region an alternative in terms of digitalizing and streamlining business processes within their relevant organizational operations. The Managing Director when launching the FARIS, said, “Today marks a historic moment for the fisheries sector in Papua New Guinea, a vision we started 18-months ago to ensure NFA has a system in place that allows for data to be seamlessly obtained at our fingertips. I am proud because this system is home-grown and built by us, for us.”

A commemoration ceremony was held on Saturday 8th of March, 2025, at Yule Island in Central Province where a French navy vessel based in New Caledonia, the Frigate “Vendemiaire”, anchored at Yule Island and carried out memorial action. This was through the cleaning and restoration of the grave of Lieutenant Léon Bourjade, a French flying ace in the First World War who later became a missionary and died in 1924 on the island. Famous for his "acrobatic" landings, his name is still associated with aviation through the expression "landing like Bourjade". Captain Guillaumat, the officers and sailors of the "Vendemiaire" were very touched by the warm welcome they received and are proud to have been able to perpetuate this tradition of the French Navy. The ceremony was held in the presence of European Union Ambassador Jacques Fradin, French Deputy Head of Mission Khouira Drault, Managing Director of Total Energies Arnaud Berthet, Operations Director for TotalEnergies Eric Casse, Captain of the “Vendemiaire” Gauthier Guillaumat and his crew, and dignitaries of the island and their community leaders. The island's residents also turned out to attend the event. It was not the first time that French officials and militaries paid tribute to the Lieutenant on Yule Island, many military vessels used to stop over there in the past. Last year, this tradition was revived when the French Navy Vessel “Auguste Benebig” came, and this year marks the 101st year of Lieutenant Bourjade’s death on Yule Island. The French Navy is part of the French Armed forces in New Caledonia (FANC); FANC enable France to have permanent military presence in the South Pacific to protect French interests in the region and maintain France's military partnerships in this area of strategic interest. With more than 1,650 military personnel, the FANC provide regular support for missions involving government action at sea. They have the capacity to intervene in the event of a security or climatic crisis affecting the area. The FANC regularly share their expertise in the field of HADR and maritime security with the security and defence forces of partner countries in the South Pacific. As such, France, alongside PNG, is an actor of the regional security, for a free, safe and secured, prosperous and sustainable Pacific, and in particular South Pacific.

With a recent article in one of the Dailys stating concerns over the historic Constitutional House at Motupore Island, the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) is currently in discussions with the University of Papua New Guinea regarding a potential restoration and redevelopment of the Constitutional House. Secretary of CLRC Dr Mange Matui highlighted that discussions are still in the infant stages, and no final decisions, or agreements have been made at this time and has stated that CLRC has agreed that something needs to be done about the building. “CLRC’s negotiation with UPNG as the caretaker and owner of the site and building will hopefully result in a formal understanding between the two institutions, aimed at preserving the site for educational purposes and to honour its historical significance for future generations,” said Dr Matui. This collaboration with UPNG is important to ensure CLRC has the necessary space and organize resources to begin restoration work of the building. As the country excels towards its 50th Independence Anniversary, it is fitting that such high esteem building be recognized and declared as a monument of historical importance while featuring as part of the Independence celebrations. “The CLRC recognizes the historical importance of the Constitutional House, given its inspiring nature as the designated site where our forefathers as members of the Constitutional Planning Committee (CPC) normally meet and crafted the Constitution before it was adopted by the Constituent Assembly in September 1972”. Dr Matui further added that CLRC strongly feels it has a moral responsibility to involve in the transformation and restoration of this iconic building not only to preserve this piece of the national history but also to promote the legacy of the CPC which is linked to the CLRC’s origins and work of, with CPC being regarded as the CLRC’s primary predecessor. The CPC was instrumental in guiding and facilitating the creation of a constitution that would serve as the legal foundation for an independent Papua New Guinea, as well as designing legal, political and governance structures, and consultations and the decolonization process, tasks CLRC continues to carry out daily as the part of its mandate as the only law reform agency of PNG.

The National Weather Services is now issuing warnings that almost most parts of the country will continue to experience heavy rain with potential flood. A trough line or low air pressure (T1) extends south eastward from southern PNG/Indonesia border at about (9.0°S,141.0°E), into a clockwise circulation south of Daru at about (10.0°S, 143.5°E), then further extends ESE over coast of Hood point to southwestern coast of Milne Bay. Another trough line (T2) extends south eastwards from Vitiaz/Dampier Straits to West New Britain and across Solomon Sea to about (11.0°S, 157.0°E). Areas of convergence exist over the Highlands Region, Owen Stanley range, East & West Sepik, Madang, New Britain, New Ireland, Manus, Oro, and Central Provinces including Coral and Bismarck Seas. Terrain and local effects are present over inland Papua New Guinea and the Highlands Region, including the Owen Stanley Range. Direct warnings for provinces in the New Guinea Islands that will be affected by heavy rain and potential flood are New Ireland, Manus, and West New Britain. Places of warning in Momase Region are Morobe, Madang, Inland West and East Sepik and for the Highlands Region are Enga Province, Jiwaka, Western Highlands, Hela, Eastern Highlands and Southern Highlands Province. For the Southern Region heavy rains and flood will affect the Western, Gulf, Central, Milne Bay and the Nation’s Capital. For the next 12 to 24hrs there will be moderate to heavy rain with potential to cause riverine and flash flood for the mentioned areas thus all are urged to take necessary precautions. It is safer to stay away from water ways, creeks, rivers as they may flood and to stay away from higher places that may result in possible landslides. Those living on the coastal areas and island are to stay away or not travel during bad weather to avoid accidents at sea during this bad weather. Remember safety is important, stay alert, follow safety instructions to stay alive.

Following the recent media report regarding the International Monetary Fund (IMF)-related benchmarks and the strong stand that the PNG Government was taking to strengthen the fight against money laundering and corruption, including the establishment of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) as a fully independent body ICAC acknowledges the report and wishes to clarify its position. ICAC as an independent constitutional body operates without direction from external entities in establishing its priorities, they recognise the importance of governance benchmarks, however ICAC did not agree to the benchmarks placed upon the agency. ICAC clarifies that it is important to note that the tasks listed under these benchmarks fall outside the ICAC's direct control and rely on the actions of other government bodies. Thus, ICAC has already informed the IMF and Treasury of this position, highlighting that they have also requested written advice from both the IMF and the Treasury regarding the origin and rationale behind the inclusion of the ICAC in these benchmarks. The claim that PNG stands to lose millions due to a potential delay in IMF funding is highly speculative. The IMF retains full discretion in its decision-making and may well choose to proceed with the next phase of funding regardless of these two procedural benchmarks. ICAC therefore clarifies also that the appointment of an ICAC Oversight Committee is beyond the ICAC's control, and it is understood the responsible Secretariat is preparing to take steps towards the committee's appointment. In February 2024, the National Executive Council approved an ICAC submission for funding for Department of Prime Minister and NEC to establish a secretariat for the oversight committee. The ICAC is advancing discussions with several agencies to progress the MOUs and regardless of the existence of MOUs, the ICAC is developing strong relationships with key agencies. The ICAC remains fully committed to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Joint Taskforce hence ICAC has played a leading role in the formation of the AML Joint Taskforce (AM LJTF), launched in December 2024, and continues to work with key agencies to strengthen cooperation in tackling financial crimes. This is a clear priority for PNG's response to the FAT F Mutual Evaluation Report. The ICAC understands that the IMF is currently considering whether the agreements formalising the AMLJTF meets the requirements of the benchmark relating to MOUs. The ICAC also recognises the importance the funding from the IMF to the Government and the rationale behind establishing governance benchmarks, but the ICAC will not be directed as to how to fulfill its mandate. Their work is guided by their statutory independence under the Constitution, and the ICAC will continue to operate accordingly in the best interests of transparency, accountability, and good governance.

The Australia-New Zealand (ANZ) Bank has recently announced that Mr Kilepak Kitemong is the new Head of Technology for ANZ-PNG. Mr Kitemong’s appointment highlights ANZ's commitment to promoting local talent to key leadership roles within the bank. Over the past seven years, Mr Kitemong has been a senior member of the ANZ PNG Technology team, sharing best practice with global teams across the Asia Pacific region and supporting the IT infrastructure of ANZ's world class technology platforms. Commenting on his appointment, ANZ PNG Country Head, Lachlan Halstead, stated that Kilepak's appointment reflects ANZ's commitment to attracting, developing and promoting Papua New Guineans to senior leadership positions within the bank. "Kilepak's leadership skills and his deep technical expertise mean he is well-placed to help us develop and innovate our technology strategy to support our customers and the PNG economy." "Technology and digital banking are continuing to redefine our business and how our customers interact with us." "l look forward to working closely with Kilepak and continuing to draw on his expertise," Mr Halstead said. Kilepak Kitemong is the latest Papua New Guinean to be promoted into a senior management role, following Florida Rita's appointment to Head of Transaction Banking. Mr Kitemong who has a bachelor’s degree in Commercial Computing from the University of Technology is pleased to be appointed to a senior role in the bank. "l am pleased to be joining the ANZ PNG leadership team, and it's great to be a part of a company and culture that is committed to developing its local team members."

Air Niugini encourages customers to take advantage of the “NambaWan Fares” as well as other frequently discounted airfares. With the current “Nambawan fares” it provide up to 60 percent off standard ticket fare and is designed to make travel more affordable and encourage more people to fly, whether for business, tourism, medical or simply visiting family and friends within the country. The nambawan fares present an excellent opportunity for those looking to explore new destinations without having to dig deeper into their pockets. With five price points available, customers can purchase tickets now for travel in as little as three days or up to two weeks later. Many customers expressed excitement and joy after securing cheaper nambawan fares. A couple from Bukapena in the Mul-Baiyer district of Western Highlands Province, Mr Samuel Opa and wife, Wati were among customers who took advantage of the nambawan fares when they called into Air Niugini’s new sales office at Dobel in Mt Hagen this morning. “We are happy with the Nambawan fare, as it has made it possible for us to travel to Port Moresby to witness our kid’s graduation”, said Mr Opa. Other customers, like Messrs. Kenneth Karagu, Tavadai Tamari, and Cholai Sipayau, who purchased fares earlier at the sales office in Mt Hagen, echoed similar sentiments, praising the airline for making travel more feasible for them and their loved ones. Mr. Tamari said, “I reside with my family in Mt Hagen, and with this special fare of K413, I was able to take my family with me to Port Moresby and back recently.” Meanwhile, Mr. Karagu added, “It’s good to ensure more people travel, especially those in rural areas for school, work, or vacation; these special fares will really help to cut down on costs. I purchased one recently.” The joy of finding a great deal not only enhances their travel experience but also boosts overall morale as they look forward to future adventures with many customers now feeling empowered to explore new destinations without having to dig deeper to purchase airline tickets. The Nambawan fares are available for all Air Niugini domestic destinations. "We also encourage our customers to book early and plan ahead." "As with any travel plans, having an itinerary can help ensure you make the most of your trip while taking advantage of the discounted fares." "To stay informed on the latest deals and promotions, customers are encouraged to regularly check Air Niugini's Facebook page, website or call toll free 180 3444/7104 3444." "You can also visit your nearest Air Niugini sales office."

PNG KUMUL #166 will be the new Coach Development Manager for Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League The announcement of his appointment was made by the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) in a statement this week. PNGRFL is proud to announce that they have secured the services of Mr Stanley Gene to continue the development of rugby league in Papua New Guinea. Gene's outstanding playing career includes playing for Goroka Lahanis in 1993-94 and the former Lae Bombers the following year. He then played over 350 games in the English Super League and First Division competition in a career spanning over 17 years at top level Rugby League. He represented the PNG Kumuls in 16 Test Matches including 3 World Cups. Following his retirement, he moved into coaching and was the head coach of Gateshead Thunder and Assistant Coach at Hull KR to the Super League team. He was also the Head Coach of Hull KR Academy team. Gene’s immediate focus in the new role will be to support all Digicel ExxonMobil Cup coaches in the 2025 season. He will create a Talent Identification Program for coaches across the country, and the program will focus on coaches who are identified and want to progress into all the club pathways programs and beyond. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina highlighted that with Mr Gene returning from England to help grow and develop the game is another wonderful step forward for PNG. “As a player who had such a distinguished playing career and represented our country with pride, having him back in the country and available to serve at the PNGRFL is a great opportunity.” “His recent experience in coaching in the Super League and Academy programs will be of great benefit to our clubs,” said Hondina. “As we continue to drive to improve the game, the importance of coaching at Youth, Santos Cup and Digicel ExxonMobil Cup level is critical.” Also speaking during the official announcement of his appointment Mr Gene thanked the PNGRFL for giving him the opportunity to come and work with the team who had done so much in bringing Rugby League to the next level. “I am very passionate about rugby league as this game gave me the opportunity to fulfil my dreams in playing and now coaching.” “To be given the opportunity of helping and giving back to our local coaches is something I am very excited about, and I cannot wait to get out to the clubs and start.”

Tropical Cyclone Alfred Category 1 has now moved away from Papua New Guinea and is now lying on the Eastern seaboard of Queensland. However, with the Tropical Cyclone season still in active in the Southern Hemisphere and rainy season in the country, the National Weather Service has reissued heavy rains and flash flood warnings. Warning areas that will possibly be affected are Western Province, Gulf Province, Central Province, Southern Highlands, Western Highlands and Jiwaka Province. Everyone who lives within these areas are urged to take necessary precautions during this period. All are warned to move away from water ways, river and creek banks and move to higher ground in case of flash flood during this heavy rain period. The warning is valid fore the next 24hrs whereby all four (4) regions will expect scattered showers and isolated thunderstorm with rain.

In a proactive effort to support the health and well-being of the Royal PNG Constabulary, Pacific International Hospital (PIH) is pleased to announce a Basic Health Check activity scheduled for Tuesday, March 4th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Boroko Police Station, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. This initiative aims to provide over 700 police personnel with essential health services, including Body Mass Index (BMI) assessments, Glucose Random Blood Sugar (GRBS) tests, and Blood Pressure (BP) monitoring. The event represents a significant corporate social responsibility (CSR) effort by PIH, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the health and well-being of those who protect our communities. As part of this initiative, police personnel who require additional care will be offered a 20% discount on outpatient consultations at Pacific International Hospital. The Basic Health Check at Boroko Police Station will be the first in a series of outreach events planned for various police stations across the region. This partnership not only aims to address immediate health needs but also fosters goodwill and collaboration between PIH and the Royal PNG Constabulary.

Remote South Fly communities have signed grant agreements to improve their livelihoods and for community development as well through the 29 ward development committee representatives from their eight wards in South Fly District, Western Province. The signing was done yesterday for the grant agreements for projects chosen by their communities aimed at community or economic development. The representatives gathered in Daru from 24 to 28 February for training and induction as part of their final preparations related to their respective PNG-Australia Partnership funded community and economic development grants. Provincial Administrator Robert Alphonse Kaiyun, Australian High Commission representative Ms Christine Charity and other dignitaries attended the event. Mr Kaiyun congratulated the grantees and thanked Australia for its partnership. “I would like to acknowledge our close long-term partnership with Australia to deliver on Western Province’s vision to strengthen economic development and build resilient communities.” “I expect the groups receiving these grants to take ownership and work to make their projects succeed.” Ms Charity was pleased to be in Daru to meet some of the grant recipients in person and applauded the achievements of the eight community groups from Morehead and Oriomo-Bituri LLGs. “I am privileged to join the ward and community representatives here in Daru to celebrate today’s signing of the first eight grant agreements, which will support egg production, sawmills, and farm equipment projects.” “These grant projects will support local communities and people to have money in the pocket and food on the table.” “This is the Western Provincial Government’s top priority, and Australia is proud to be working hand-inhand and side-by-side with the people of Western Province to reach some of the most remote and hard-to-reach communities.” In 2024, technical working groups co-chaired by the Australian High Commission and Provincial and District Administrations selected 20 community development and 10 economic grant projects through a competitive application process. Successful applicants from the Oriomu-Bituri, Morehead, Forecoast Kiwai and Fly Kiwai LLGs demonstrated that their projects would benefit the community, including women and people with disabilities, and contribute 10 per cent of project material costs. Local-level governments were closely involved with the applications and committed to assisting grantee communities with part of their contributions. Mr Sampson Tago, Chairman of Sibidiri Community’s Poultry Management Committee said, “The project will greatly assist in ensuring food and financial security because it is an investment to boost our community’s economic activity.” Signing on behalf of the Waidoro community, Ward Development Committee Chairman Mr Bazi Kazipam also expressed his happiness. “The Lucas mill project will help us improve our living conditions and develop our forestry sector through creating economic growth and supporting other local and inclusive initiatives.” The first 8 grants signed were for egg production, sawmills, and farm equipment projects. The remaining 22 grants for egg production, women’s resource centres, community halls, and bridges will follow in the coming months. During the grant period, the grantees will continue to receive technical support and skills development to successfully manage and implement their grants.

Alotau will now experience have more the enough electricity capacity to power the township including the surrounding arears of the town after PNG Power announced the successful commissioning of three (3) new 1-megawatt generators in Alotau, Milne Bay Province. The commissioning of the new generators marks a significant milestone in the province’s journey toward achieving reliable electricity for its residents, businesses, and government services. The commissioning ceremony, held at the Alotau Power Station recently, was attended by Alotau Governor Gordon Wesley, Alotau Open MP Ricky Morris, provincial administration officials, and representatives from PNG Power. PNG Power Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ivan Pekaea expressed his appreciation for the support of the Alotau Provincial Administration under the leadership of, Hon. Governor, Wesley for acquiring these generators for his province. Alotau's existing 1.6 megawatts of generation capacity would be increased by the three (3) brand-new, 728KW generators thus the installation of these generators increases Alotau’s electricity capacity from 1.6 megawatts to 2.2 megawatts, addressing the growing demand for power in the provincial capital and surrounding areas. The efficiency of the provincial capital’s energy generation and consumption will be improved after constant load shedding due to generation shortfall. “We are grateful for the support from the Alotau Provincial Administration and the continuous support from the Marape-Rosso Government, which has made this project possible,” said Pekaea. Governor Wesley expressed his gratitude to PNG Power for their commitment to improving electricity supply in Alotau. He also expressed the importance of this project in driving economic growth, improving public services, and enhancing the quality of life for the people of Milne Bay. “My government is fully committed to supporting this electricity project and ensuring that Alotau and the wider province have access to reliable power supply.” “I am liaising with PNG Power to prepare proposals and costings to meet the increasing energy demands of my province.” Alotau MP, Morris also expressed similar sentiments, reaffirming his commitment to partnering with the provincial government and stakeholders to bring tangible development to the district and province. “I am ready to support projects that will benefit our people and contribute to the growth of Milne Bay Province.” Meanwhile, the Acting CEO, Mr. Pakaea said that the operation of the ageing generation, line distribution infrastructure and fuel deliveries to the power stations throughout PNG, together with other operational running costs, needed to be addressed for PNG Power to retain and preserve electricity reliability. Pekaea further elaborated that this kind of partnership with the Alotau Provincial Administration can be replicated across all thermal centres in PNG to improve energy reliability and ensure that our people have access to consistent power supply. Thermal centres include Alotau, Wabag, Kerema, Daru, and other centres that rely on generators (fuel based) to generate electricity.