Kerebi DAVID

Following a successful two-weeks Financial Education Curriculum Validation Workshop, held by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI), in close partnership with the Department of Education (DoE) through its Curriculum Development Division (CDD), this has resulted in culminating in the delivery of 40 fully aligned educational resources. Thus, this marks an important step in the implementation of the Financial Education in Schools PNG (FESPNG) Project. The workshop was held from 5th–16th May 2025, and brought together a dedicated team of stakeholders, including officers from DoE-CDD, representatives from CEFI, and an external partner from Aflatoun International and Cufa to review and align 13 syllabuses, 13 Teacher Resource Books, and 13 Student Activity Books. This thorough process resulted in the development of eight strands, 16 units, 16 content standards, and benchmarks, reinforcing a consistent and inclusive approach to financial literacy education across all grade levels. The purpose of the workshop was to support the integration of Financial Literacy Education (FLE) into Papua New Guinea’s Standards-Based Curriculum from Preparatory to Grade 12 and to validate the financial education curriculum materials developed through collaboration between the DoE-CDD, CEFI, Aflatoun International and Cufa. The objectives of the workshop were to ensure that the financial education content aligns with CEFI’s Financial Literacy Standards and Conceptual Framework, maintaining national relevance and consistency. It also aimed to evaluate the developmental appropriateness of concepts across all grade levels, promoting coherent and age-appropriate progression. Expert input was sought from financial literacy technical advisors to enhance the accuracy and contextual suitability of the content and additionally, feedback from CEFI and external partners was gathered to confirm the curriculum’s relevance to real-life financial challenges. The workshop also validated the templates of the Teacher Resource Books and Student Activity Books to ensure they are well-structured, accessible, and practical for classroom use. Mr. Steven Tandale, First Assistant Secretary at the DoE’s-CDD, praised the dedication and collaborative spirit of the workshop participants. He emphasized the critical role that writing, research, and continuous improvement play in curriculum development and encouraged educators to view challenges as opportunities brought for innovation. Mr. Tandale also acknowledged the practical barriers to implementation such as logistics, printing, and delivery to remote schools but affirmed that the team’s resourcefulness had led to creative solutions, including improved communication methods and enhanced documentation strategies. This collaborative effort emphasizes a shared commitment to integrating financial literacy into the Standards Based Curriculum from Preparatory to Grade 12. The FE curriculum is critical in empowering students with essential financial knowledge, practical skills, and value-based learning fostering lifelong learning, financial resilience, and responsible citizenship. In total, 40 educational documents have been produced across the three workshops (two similar workshops held in 2024), all of which were funded by CEFI and delivered in collaboration with the DoE. This outstanding effort marks a national commitment to embedding financial literacy across all stages of formal education in Papua New Guinea.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has today entered into a binding agreement with Kingston Resources Limited (Kingston) to acquire the Misima Gold and Silver Project for A$60M (~US$38M), with further contingent payments totaling up to A$35M (~US$22M). This was announced in a media statement this week. The Misima Gold and Silver Project, located 625km east of Port Moresby in Milne Bay, has a current mineral resource estimate of 3.8Moz of gold and 22.1Moz of silver 1. Ok Tedi operates the Ok Tedi Mine, the longest running open-pit copper, gold and silver mine in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The company is 100% PNG owned, with a 67% direct shareholding by the Independent State of PNG through Kumul Minerals (Ok Tedi) Limited and a 33% interest held by the people of the Western Province. Ok Tedi Chaiman Mark Stone said the transaction was a marker of PNG’s resurging mining sector. “The move to a multi-mine business is a significant step for Ok Tedi, reinforcing the company’s commitment to harnessing the region’s mineral assets and capitalizing on government support for long-term growth,” said Mr. Stone. “Papua New Guinea is a mineral rich land with many natural assets just waiting to be unlocked and the Misima mine, with its 3.8Moz resource together with potential exploration upside, is a great example of that.” “We hope that bringing Ok Tedi’s strong operational capability to another national resource will contribute to the Government’s Vision 2050 to empower our people and create wealth for our nation.” Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit spoke enthusiastically on the company’s growing footprint. “Ok Tedi is entering an exciting period of expansion as we look to secure Ok Tedi’s future and act on our Growth 2050 vision.” “We have many great projects on the horizon, from mine improvements to extend the mine life, to our ‘lighting up the west’ hydro-electrification strategy and other sustainability initiatives – the reopening of Misima gold is just one early step in the journey,” he said. Mr. Ilimbit further highlighted Ok Tedi’s significant community consultation experience, which he believed would ensure a smooth ownership transition. “Through this project we will boost social and business opportunities on Misima Island and ensure the benefits flow through into the communities, and also bring more economic value to our shareholders, the people of PNG.” Kingston Resources Ltd, an ASX-listed gold and copper company based in Australia, moved to 100% ownership of the Misima project in 2021 and completed a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) of the mine which confirmed the viability of a new long-life open pit mining operation at the site. The DFS assumed a 20-year mine life, annual throughput capacity of 6.1Mt and life of mine average annual gold production of 122koz. “We will now proceed with refining the DFS and environmental impact studies to accelerate our development and permitting plans and return Misima to its former glory as a successful producer and contributor to the local economy,” said Mr. Ilimbit. The acquisition will be funded by Ok Tedi’s existing cash flows, with a number of options to be explored for funding the development and construction of the operation. Completion is subject to customary consents being obtained from relevant stakeholders including the extension of the current principal exploration license and Independent Consumer and Competition Commission of PNG (ICCC) approval. The sale agreement contains other terms and conditions typical for an agreement of this nature including standard representations and warranties provided by both Ok Tedi and Kingston. “We look forward to working with the Mineral Resources Authority to facilitate the smooth processing of all regulatory requirements to get this magnificent national resource back up and running,” he said. The Misima mine was previously operated as an open pit mine from 1989 to 2004 by Placer Dome Inc., producing 3.7Moz of gold during its 15 years of operation. Treadstone Resource Partners acted as strategic and financial advisor, Allens acted as legal advisor, PWC acted as tax advisor, and AMC Consultants acted as technical advisor to Ok Tedi for the transaction.

BSP Financial Group Limited’s (BSP) Port Moresby Branch is undergoing a full refurbishment. This refurbishment is a key part of the bank’s ongoing modernization program aimed at delivering a better, faster, and more convenient banking experience for all customers. BSP Group General Manager – Retail, Mr. Ronesh Dayal, in announcing this said the bank is upgrading one of its most iconic branches to bring customers a more modern and seamless banking experience. “To ensure there’s no disruption to our services during this exciting transformation, we’ve temporarily relocated all banking operations to the mezzanine floor of the Port Moresby Branch building, effective as of Monday, 19th May 2025. “All banking services will continue at the temporary location, including Teller transactions, customer enquiries, new account openings, Lending services, and Digital banking support.” “Our friendly staff are ready and available to assist you at every step,” he added. This refurbishment marks the second major upgrade under our modernization program, following the successful reopening of our Waterfront Branch in November 2024. “The Port Moresby Branch, a trusted financial hub since 1st May 1957, is being transformed to reflect BSP’s long-term commitment to innovation and customer-first service.” “Once completed in August 2025, the new branch will feature a refreshed, modern layout and enhanced digital banking solutions—making everyday banking even easier. Similar upgrades are planned across key locations in Papua New Guinea as part of BSP’s commitment to the prosperity and progress of the communities we serve,” Mr. Dayal further added. In the meantime, BSP Paramount Banking Team has relocated to Level 2, Moki Business Park, Waigani, and continues to support BSP’s valued customers. “Thank you for your continued support as we build the future of banking in PNG.”

Marking 50 years of Independence for Papua New Guinea this and recognising those who contributed to the country’s freedom too is a very important gesture. The K100 banknote of Papua New Guinea will have a very new feature, a timely change to the old image of the K100 bank note, giving recognition to one of our founding father Sir Julius Chan. The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has received the final blessing from the family of the late Sir Julius Chan to feature his image on the country’s K100 banknote. In a recent visit to the Chan residence in Port Moresby, BPNG staff completed the formal approval process with the family, marking a significant moment of national and personal pride. This follows the announcement made by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape on April 28, 2025, during the launch of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary commemorative notes. The inclusion of Sir Julius Chan, a founding father and former Prime Minister, on the K100 note serves as a national tribute to his immense contributions to the country's political and economic foundations. The gesture has been warmly received by many Papua New Guineans, as a long-overdue recognition of Sir Julius’s legacy. The Chan family expressed their appreciation to the Government and acknowledged the importance of this symbolic honour. “Special thanks are extended to Prime Minister James Marape and the Pangu-led Government for their leadership and commitment in preserving the legacy of one of Papua New Guinea’s great statesmen.” “It is great honour to have our two main founding fathers on our national legal tender notes, Sir Michael Thomas Somare on our K50 banknote and now Sir Julius Chan will be on our K100 banknote, thus signifying also the recognition given to the two great fathers of this nation.”

Steamships Trading Company has announced the appointment of the country’s number one Human Rights Activist, Ms. Ruth J Kissam as its new General Manager of Corporate Affairs, strengthening the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices and community partnerships. Ms. Kissam brings over 16 years of experience in the development sector, with a strong background as a community organizer and human rights activist. Her extensive work with public and private stakeholders, coupled with her passion for championing impactful campaigns, has made a meaningful difference in both civil society and grassroots communities across Papua New Guinea. Before joining Steamships, Ms. Kissam served as Strategic Advisor at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) and held advisory roles with various international development partners. She is well-known for her deep connections and respected network spanning government, corporate, and community sectors. Additionally, Ruth holds multiple board-level positions, further highlighting her leadership credentials. Chris Daniells, Managing Director of Steamships, stated that Ruth’s passion for human rights and her deep understanding of PNG’s social and economic landscape aligns perfectly with our strategy to drive positive change. “Her leadership will be instrumental as we prepare for a period of sustained growth over the next three years.” Ruth Kissam’s career has been marked by leadership roles in international NGOs, advocacy for marginalized groups, and advisory work on governance and human rights. She brings valuable expertise in corporate responsibility, sustainability, and strategic communications, which will enhance Steamships’ efforts to foster inclusive growth across Papua New Guinea. Expressing her enthusiasm, Ms. Kissam said, that she is honoured to join Steamships as General Manager of Corporate Affairs. “After years in the NGO and humanitarian sector, I’m excited to build bridges between community needs and business objectives.” “Steamships has a proud history of contributing to PNG’s development, and I look forward to aligning our efforts to create shared value for both the company and the communities we serve.” Ms. Kissam studied Law at the University of Papua New Guinea and is an Obama Fellow at Columbia University as well as a Draper Hills Fellow at Stanford University. Founded in 1918, Steamships Limited is a diversified leader in logistics, hospitality, property, and joint-venture businesses in Papua New Guinea, with a long-standing commitment to the country’s growth and sustainable development. Steamships continues to pioneer progress that benefits future generations.

The PNG Rice Grain Board is now calling on the national government to urgently support commercial rice seed production in the country, and National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) has come onboard to support this call. Chairman of Rice Grain Board Mr. Koren Maso made this call when meeting with NARI Director General Dr Nelson Simbiken at the NARI Head Office on May 13, 2025, to formalize arrangements for a Memorandum of Understanding in commercial rice seed production with two external rice seed producers in the country. A funding of K11milion has been earmarked in 2023 by the National Government for rice seed production and model farm and K4 million from that funding will be specifically for seed development. Director General of NARI, Dr Nelson Simbiken, added that this is an urgent call to the Government to release the funds earmarked for the rice commercialization program. “For the Government to enter commercialization, we need to increase the volume of seeds, thus NARI has developed four lowland and two highland rice varieties, but the volume is not enough for commercialization,” said Dr Simbiken. The joint call by the Rice & Grain Board and NARI to venture into commercial rice seed production is aimed at reducing the high cost of importing rice at almost K1billion every year. The Rice and Grain Board were set up by the government in 2023 to reduce import of rice and grain, encourage rice production to address food security, create employment opportunities and income. RGB Chairman Mr Maso urged relevant agencies within the sector to mobilize unused state land to realize commercial rice seed production in the country. “In a packet, the finished product for rice can cost you K5 to K6. But per kilo for seeds is K37.00.” “Knowing and understanding that the return of investment is higher in the seed then the production, we have interests from two companies, one in China and the other in Philippines.” Mr Maso further stated that the triparted agreement will see NARI do commercial seed research while the investors will focus on operation and production. “The aim is to be able to feed our PNG farms and the surplus we can export.” NARI and the Rice and Grain Board will make an official announcement once the MOU is signed.

The Chairman of Special Parliamentary Committee on Public Sector Reform and Service Delivery Gary Juffa, has joined the chorus of public outcry on a recent video publicizing disturbing violence of what appears to be excessive and disproportionate force displayed in the bashing of a mother and child accused of minor shop lifting in Madang on 10th of May this year. Chairman Juffa commends the social media users for bringing this matter to light. “As soon as I saw the post I immediately forwarded the footage to the Minister of Police and the Minister for Community Development who both responded very swiftly by assuring me of commencement of investigations.” “I congratulate the social media users and the Ministers’ swift actions which was able to lead to the quick detention of the suspects involved with the beatings.” “This is a great example where all stakeholders working responsibly together can achieve tremendous outcomes.” The Chairman poses a few questions which he hopes will be covered by those investigating the matter: • What legal mandate did those who mercilessly detained and beat them have? • Who is ultimately responsible for ensuring a baseline standard of care and dignity for our vulnerable, especially our mothers and children- even when they appear to be in the wrong? • In this case, why were the 2 accused not apprehended and taken to appropriate law enforcement authorities? • Was the force they used proportionate to the allegations of petty shop lifting? • Where is the Constitutional right of presumption of innocence (even when crime is eye witnessed) until proven guilty or do we dispense with the Constitution when we feel like it? • If the perpetrators are registered or unregistered security guards, should they fall under the watch of the National Security Authority? “One cannot blame persons viewing the video clip asking for proportionate considerations for such a terrible beating for a theft of minor commercial value in shop lifting by this mother and daughter be applied also to the shop operators, especially foreigners, should they be caught for any revenue and anti-social crimes.” The Chairman also called for recognition of the real reason vulnerable person of our society, such as this mother and child, are going to such risky lengths for food and basic needs. “It may be high time to actually address the baseline of our society where they may not be able to afford the most basic essentials anymore!” “What this condition usually gives birth to is involuntary anarchy”, he added.

The New Ireland Provincial Government is embarking on a mission now to create a sporting body that will oversee different sporting codes within the province. Provincial Administrator Mr. Richard Andia revealed this recently (May 11, 2025) during the launch of the Kunanoka (Kuat, Nalik, Notsi, Kara) Sports Association at Bol village along the Boluminski highway, which is about 93.6 kilometres from the provincial capital, Kavieng. “Under the leadership of our governor and sporting hero Walter Schnaubelt, we have finalized a constitution of the sporting body, and it will go before the next Provincial Executive Council (PEC) meeting for its endorsement." “All sporting codes in the province will now come under one umbrella called the New Ireland Sports Authority (NISPA),” he revealed. During the launching Mr. Coleman Tamsak Special Political Advisor to Governor Walter, on behalf of Walter made a presentation of K10,000 funding from the governor’s office towards KSA. Mr. Tamsak upon presenting the funds stated that the youth engagement in sports helps develop teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills while providing a constructive outlet for energy. The launching was also witnessed by New Ireland Governor Walter Schnaubelt’s special political advisor, Coleman Tamsak, Sentral Niu Ailan President Ben Sakbua and the office staff.Further yet Provincial Administrator also highlighted that NISPA will play a crucial role in promoting and developing sports within the province. “This authority is responsible for overseeing various sports activities, ensuring that facilities are available, and fostering participation at all levels, from grassroots to elite athletes.” “In doing so, we will maintain existing venues like the Kavieng stadium and potentially develop new ones such as the Konos and Namatanai stadiums to meet international standards as well as the needs of various sports disciplines,” he highlighted also. He further stated the authority will work closely with national governing bodies for different sports to align local initiatives with national strategies to help secure funding and resources necessary for development. Andia also announced that New Ireland will be sending a rugby team to compete in the semi-professional rugby league competition, the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup next year which has the backing of Governor Schnaubelt. He said Kavieng stadium has met all requirements by PNG Sports Commission and PNG Rugby Football League to host Digicel Cup games as well in the future. With PNG Games to be held in November this year, Andia said preparation is currently underway to get the New Ireland team to participate at the games in Southern Highlands province.

Kouaoro Island just across the Sirinumu Dam at Sogeri in the Hiri Koiari district of Central Province is feared to be submerging due to the continuous heavy rains in the area. Kouaoro Island in Sirinumu is home to 3 Local Level Government (LLG) in Koiari with almost a 4,000 population of people. Sirinumu Dam Ward 17 Councilor Mr. Geno Vincent stated that due to the continues heavy rainfalls since last year, this has very much affected the island, and it looks like the whole island will soon be submerged under water if the rain continues. Mr. Vincent added that most food gardens are nowhere to be seen as they have all been inundated by rising level of the water. “The dam is full over its capacity; thus, it is causing soil erosions too, and most kaukau, tapiok and other staple food crops have all submerge in the rising water level”. “Power poles along the Sirinumu dam to the Kouaoro Island are all under the water, whilst live electricity is still flowing, posing so much danger for our people.” Councilor Vincent further highlighted that the rising level of water has posed so much risk for the travelling children going to and from school via their canoes. “The Sirinumu Primary school is isolated on another island so children from all 3 LLGs in Sirinumu had to travel bay canoe every day to and from school, and with rising level it has made it riskier because at some times when the canoes capsized the kids often swim to the nearest tree and hang on to the tree whilst waiting for rescue but right now, they cannot do that because all trees are under water.” "All the trees are under water, even a house at the Sirinumu School is under water and we are afraid our island village might be all under water," said Councilor Vincent. Councilor Vincent further added that this issue was not yet brought to the Hiri Koiari District Disaster office nor the Central Provincial Disaster Office, but he is grateful that PNG HAUSBUNG has reached out to the community to get their story. “We are sinking, our food gardens under water, please we need officers from the district and provincial Disaster office to come to Sirinumu to assess our situation and provide some form of relief assistants to us”. “We are in dire need of Food relief assistance right now.” Councilor Vincent also stated that it would be a relief assistant if local Member of Parliament purchase a dinghy for their school to be used as the school transport to ferry students to and from school every day.

Kina Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Akino Wano as General Manager Branch Banking. Ms. Akino brings over 20 years of experience to Kina Bank, beginning her career in the banking industry with ANZ as a Proof Operator, now known as Kina Automated Transfer System (KATs) Officer, where she developed a strong foundation and passion for banking. Her early years were grounded in back-office functions, and customer support-nurturing a passion for serving customers and driving better outcomes across banking channels. She went on to take on human resource roles within ANZ and BSP, where she deepened her understanding of people, culture, and leadership within the banking sector. Her career then expanded into the oil and gas and FMCG industries, including freelance consulting with the office of Member for Moresby South, where she provided administrative, advisory and strategic support across the industries she got in contact with. In 2018, Akino returned to banking with Kina Bank and has since held key senior leadership roles including Senior Business Partner and Head of Employee Experience. Her deep knowledge of banking, people, and operations—combined with her commitment to customer service—makes her well-positioned to lead Kina’s Branch network into its next phase of growth. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Business from the University of Tasmania and a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial & Organizational Psychology from the University of Papua New Guinea. Kina Bank’s Executive General Manager – Business and Retail Banking, Rayeleene Elston, stated, “We are confident that Akino’s leadership, operational background, and passion for serving customers will drive our branch banking network to new heights.” “Kina Bank is focused on developing local talent in Papua New Guinea to grow into future leaders.” “By supporting our people and giving them opportunities to strengthen their capabilities, we aim to build a strong team that contributes meaningfully to nation building,” she added.

The Government of PNG through the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority officially signed a project document for the implementation of a Global Environment Facility (GEF) initiative under its 8th funding replenishment cycle (GEF-8) on Wednesday 07th May 2025, at the CEPA office. This project is supported by the Food and Agriculture of the United Nations (FAO), and the (GEF-8) project will focus on safeguarding significant, intact tropical rainforest landscapes in the Gulf and Western Province. These areas are vital carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots which plays critical role in climate regulation and ecosystem stability. An amount of K16million was allocated for this project and will run from 2025-2029. “This project reflects PNG’s unwavering commitment to conserving our rich biodiversity while enhancing community resilience,” said CEPA Managing Director, Mr. Jude Tukuliya. “Protecting our forests is not only essential for our people but also contributes to global climate goals.” “By empowering local communities to adopt sustainable land-use practices and promoting long-term conservation financing, we are ensuring that environmental protection goes hand-in-hand with development." Mr. Tukuliya further highlighted the inclusive and sustainable nature of the project. The GEF-8-supported project aims to tackle key drivers of forest degradation and establish sustainable mechanisms that will benefit both people and the planet. This initiative aligns with PNG’s national conservation priorities and international environmental commitments.

The National weather Office has issue strong wind warnings for provinces along the coastal lines of Papua New Guinea including the Islands. The Weather office warns of renewal strong winds for all coastal waters of Southern and PNG -Indonesia border to Kiwai Islands and from the Hood Point to Samarai Island. The winds will run at a speed of 05/10 knots in the Solomon Sea and Bismark Sea, 05/15knots in the Pacific Ocean and Coral Sea winds may reach up to 15/25knots and will be accompanied by isolated showers and thunderstorms as well. All small crafts and boats owners and skippers are advised to take necessary precautions before going out to sea especially in the warning areas, or better still stay away from sea until weather is calm. It has been predicted also that places in the Southern Region and Highlands Region will be experiencing heavy rains that will lead to potential flooding in most areas. "Heavy rains can cause flash and riverine flooding as well as landslides are expected to happen therefore being vigilant and taking precaution is very important during this bad weather period," the weather office said. Therefore, people living closer to creeks and rivers, drains and water ways are urged to be mindful of flash floods and riverine. Warning also to those living near mountains, cliffs and next to rivers are urged to take precautions as continuous heavy rains can pose the risk of landslides. People living next to big old trees and power poles and lines are also urged to stay clear as heavy rains can cause power lines, poles and tree branches to fall. These warnings are valid for the next 24 hours, and the National Weather Service urges all to be safe.