Kerebi DAVID

Over the few years the number of Street kids have drastically increased, especially in the major towns and cities in Papua New Guinea. Acting Director for Child and Family Services Mr. Jerry Wap stated that the issue of street kids is now a priority for the office, and they started a data service in Lae, Mt Hagen, Kokopo and Port Moresby cities, and results showed that street kids are increasing in Port Moresby while Lae and Mt Hagen cities have the highest numbers. Mr. Wap highlighted that at the beginning of this year, their office started a program called the ‘Street Kids Identification, Processing and Reintegration Program to help get the kids off the streets. “The office of Child and Family Services has identified in Port Moresby that about 200 street kids are boys and 35 are girls.” “When we put them into regional groups, Southern Region and Highlands Region has the highest number of street kids roaming the streets of Port Moresby," he said. He added also that it is sad to see that about 200 street kids do have parents, while others one parent deceased and only one parent still alive, however with no financial stability and proper concern and care, these kids turn to the streets to survive. “Fathers and mothers allowing their kids to be on the streets, is a direct breach of the Lukautim Pikinini Act.” “The Lukautim Pikinini Act does not allow young kids to be hanging unsupervised on the streets, thus parents are endangering their children by allowing them to be at places where their rights can be violated.” With so many parents breaching the Lukautim Pikinini Act, the Office of Child and Family Services will now carry out awareness programs regarding this issue and will also visit the homes of the street kids to have a conversation with their parents. “We will talk with the parent concern and get them to sign an agreement to state that they will not allow their kids on the streets again, endangering the young lives.” “However, if after the agreement is signed and if we see the same child on the streets again, the parents and the kid will face the law.” Mr. Wap further added that allowing kids to be on the streets is definitely not an option for survival, this is abuse. Mr. Wap also stated that there is another group of kids who are genuine street kids, the orphans, sadly these kids are genuinely on the streets trying to survive daily. “Our Office has identified 5 of these orphans and we have placed them in the system, in the Out of Home Care centers so they are safe and cared for.” “5 is the number we identified this year, but there could be more, we are still working to get hold of these orphans and put them where it is safe." Mr. Wap who is frustrated about parents failing their parental duties, bolding added that allowing kids to be on the streets to beg, to roam and look for handouts, and to control traffic for tips is a serious breach of the Lukautim Pikinini Act and this must be stopped as soon as possible.

The legacy of the late Sir Peter Barter, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award during the National Tourism Conference & Expo (NTC) 2025 Gala Dinner, held on Thursday 10 April 2025 at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, where Sir Peter Barter’s name is etched into the foundation of PNG tourism. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to late Sir Peter’s son, Andrew Barter, who received the honour on behalf of his late father, alongside his wife Juanita Barter. The award was presented by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, and the Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Norman Namah, in recognition of Sir Peter Barter’s lifelong service and contribution to the tourism sector in Papua New Guinea. Andrew and Juanita joined two other proud recipients of the evening: Bob Bates, proprietor of Trans Niugini Tours, and Cheyne and Cecilie Benjamin, the son and wife of the late Max Benjamin, founder of the world-renowned Walindi Resort in West New Britain Province. After arriving in Papua New Guinea in the years prior to the 1970s, late Sir Peter Barter later established Melanesian Tourist Services Ltd, which would go on to operate the Melanesian Discoverer expeditionary cruise and Madang Resort Hotel, helping to position Madang as one of the country’s leading tourism destinations. Beyond business, Sir Peter was known for his deep cultural appreciation, his strong love for the people, which he supported through the Melanesian Foundation, and his passion for promoting PNG’s diversity to the world. The late Sir Peter Barter was also a prominent figure in Papua New Guinea’s government, serving as Minister for Health and Bougainville Affairs during the early 2000s under the Somare Government. As Minister for Bougainville Affairs, he played a key role in the peace and reconciliation process following the Bougainville Civil War, helping to rebuild trust and to strengthen dialogue. He also served as Governor of Madang Province, where he championed rural development, health, education, and tourism, leaving a lasting legacy for the people of Madang and Papua New Guinea. The Gala Dinner marked the close of a two-day national conference, hosted on Wednesday 9 to Thursday 10 April, where tourism operators, government officials, development partners, and community leaders gathered to reflect on the past 50 years of PNG tourism and plan for its next chapter under the theme: “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future.” Chief Executive Officer of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, praised the late Sir Peter’s enduring influence. “Sir Peter Barter was not only a pioneer in the tourism industry but a statesman, philanthropist, and a prouder Papua New Guinean than most Papua New Guineans." "His efforts extended far beyond economic gain — he championed peace, culture, and inclusive development through tourism.” “On behalf of TPA, I thank Andrew and Juanita for travelling to Port Moresby to receive this honour. It was a truly special moment,” said Uvovo. The Lifetime Achievement Award was proudly sponsored by the Platinum Sponsor of the NTC, the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries, who played a key role in supporting the event and recognising industry leaders.

Easter long weekend started on a very peaceful note on Good Friday, with no major incidents reported says Gordons Police Station Commander Senior Inspector Gabriel Kini Bire. Inspector Kini stated that Gordons has been very quiet since Good Friday and Easter Saturday, and he is hoping for the same for Easter Sunday and Monday. “When Gordons is peaceful then it is easier to concentrate on every other area in the Moresby Northeast District." Inspector Kini stated that Police operations for the Easter Long weekend started off on Friday and will continue until Monday evening. He added also they are conducting motorist patrols into suburbs, residential areas, settlement, business house areas and government property areas to make sure all places are safe and peaceful. “We have started road checks since Friday and will continue until Monday evening, that is to make sure citizens following the beer ban policy as well as travellers feel safe when on the road." “Our roadblocks will be at Unagi Oval, Erima round about, ATS Roundabout, 8mile, 9-mile roundabouts as well as Bautama roundabout." He added that because this long weekend is a religious holiday, most people will be traveling day and night as well for worship programs therefore roadblocks and motorist patrols are done to show police visibility and guarantee of safety at this time. “I urge all my good people in Moresby Northeast to celebrate safe, respect one another, and also to uphold liquor ban this Easter long weekend."

LALOKI Secondary School in Central's Hiri-Koiari electorate were the recipients of over K30,000 worth of water supply equipment donated by Papua New Guinea India Association under the leadership of President Mr Raj Pattnai. The donation included: · 2 x 9,000-litre water tanks valued at K11,113.96. · 2 x high power pressure pump valued at K20,800; and · Labour and fittings cost K3,000 A total of K34, 913.96 was spent to deliver this project to the school. With the continues heavy rains, has caused fault in the school’s old water pump and other equipment, hence, the school reached out to the association for assistance which resulted in the presentation this week on Wednesday 16th April 2025. Also, due to limited TFF funding many schools throughout the country have difficulty upgrading facilities, and Laloki Secondary is one such school. Association treasurer and chief executive officer for Mama Bank Mr Gunanidhi Das stated that this was a momentous occasion, and the association was happy to give this little support to the school. He made special mention to teacher Mr Dennis Oa who was instrumental in getting the deal done, spending his time, effort and money going back and forth consulting with the Indian Association on how to acquire the items, including collecting all the quotations and finding out information and ensuring whatever money was allocated was put to best use. Das announced that the association raised funds to help the community in small ways that they could. He also announced that they had also assisted Iobuna Kouba Primary School (just across the road from Laloki) with a brand-new classroom as well. “This was our first time visiting Laloki Secondary School on the weekend and seeing boarding students carrying buckets down to the river to fetch water really touched our hearts.” “There are almost 500 of you boarding students and you have to do this every day.” “We got to know the problem and that is why we wanted to see how we could help you so you could fetch water within your dormitories,” he said. Mr. Das stated that such partnerships were very important and was the way forward for development. Association vice president Ms Veni Korkunda thanked the school for accepting the donation and hoped that this would help them greatly in the future. “We host fundraising events every year where all the Indians living in PNG and Port Moresby come together do something for a worthy cause.” He highlighted that they host shows and their children perform, and the funds raised are given back to the local communities here in Papua New Guinea. “It’s our way of saying thank you to Papua New Guinea for allowing us to live with you in your country,” Ganesh said. School principal Mrs Carol Tsinabi, who has been teaching at Laloki for the past 25 years and is serving her first year as principal, stated that in all her years of teaching at Laloki, this was the first time for such a donation to be made, and the school was extremely grateful. She urged the students and staff to look after the property, so it served the school for years to come.

Port Moresby City was very quiet this Good Friday, as many Christians in the country went for church services, Catholic faithfuls had their Stations of the Cross this morning as early as 5am. The event involved a procession with the Cross being carried by the Faithfuls, starting from St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Boroko and ended at the Sacred Heart Parish in Hohola. The roads are not busy, less traffic, many business houses and shops closed with only very few open that had customers doing Easter Shopping for Easter kaikai. With alcohol ban this Easter Weekend, the city started of Good Friday on a very quiet and peaceful note. We took to the street to ask people what Easter means to them; thus, many stated Easter is the time when all Christian honour and remember the Man who died on the cross more than 2000 years ago on Mt Calvary. Others stated that it is a time when one is reminded to repent and acknowledge that all have sinned and come short of his glory but through crucifixion we can be in his glory. For the religious, it’s a time of church services, prayers, and rituals. For the secular world, it means feasting, games, and the Easter Bunny, but each culture pays respect in its own way to Christ who after His crucifixion, death, and burial, rose from the grave three days later and by this, He conquered death and redeemed us from sin.

What started as a dream for a former Rugby League Player, Mr. Stanley Olo is now growing from strength to strength and reaching more kids in the Nation's Capital, giving them a career path in Rugby League. Mr. Olo, who was one of the rugby household names who had played for Mendi Muruks, Rabaul Gurias, Lae Snax Tigers, Hela Wigmen, is now runny a Rugby League Pathway Program for kids age 7 to 14 years old. Olo even had bit of fair chance running balls in Natingiah Matevera Sea Eagles club in Cook Island back in 2019. After retiring from Rugby League, Mr. Olo started this program last year 2024 and it has gain momentum in less than a year. Olo who came from a humble background growing up in 2mile, YWCA settlement said that he knows how much young kids love rugby league, but to get proper training is another thing. Olo said there is a big gap in rugby league in terms of development in the country, thus he is now trying to fill in this gap by starting the S.O League Agency and Academy Program. The S.O League Agency and Academy Program is a development pathway program for all kids, especially the under privileged kids who grew up in settlements and love rugby league, to get into this program and start their career. “Most kids in settlements come from broken homes, most are street kids, but when you talk about rugby league, they smile because they love it and are crazy about rugby league,” said Mr. Ollo. “This program has the under- 10 category, under- 13 category and the under- 14 category for both boys and girls, and right now, we have about 116 teams in this league.” Olo also mentioned that the S.O League has now affiliated to PNG Rugby Football League, aiming to development skills and talents as young as 7 years old. He started the league with 38 teams in Moresby South last year but got interest from all 3 districts in the Nation's Capital and today about 116 teams in total from Moresby South, North- East and North-West, are all taking part in the league. “Right now, our competitions are happening at Unagi oval every weekend and Hohola Suk Suk Park, but we reserve competition in Moresby South due to security reasons but teams from Moresby South are participating in the two suburbs." "Mr. Olo highlighted pathways programs, stating that after Under 14, selections are made for players to go on join the PNGNRL Bid selection side, and then they continue to Under 17 and Under 19 in the Port Moresby Rugby League Competition and then further in the Digicel competition and so on.” “This is an academic program for rugby league and is totally different from the School Boys Rugby League program because for this program underprivilege kids who are not in school can play.” “This is where we create and grow talents from as young as 7 years old, so unfortunate kids can have a future, a career in life in rugby league.”

For the sport of boxing in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to excel, there is need for more promotion of the sport to take place. This was highlighted by PNG Boxing Rep Junior Kauka Raka when stressing that PNG Boxing needs more promoters to come on board and sponsor fighters in tournaments. Mr. Raka said that there are two main boxing categories in the country, the Armature and the Professional Boxing and currently there is only one Promoter, Oceania Fight Promoters, which was founded by Late Ben Micah. “Oceania Fight Promoters has been the sole promoter for fighters in the country, which has been promoting and sponsoring fighters, however, we need more promoters in order for the sports to grow to new heights.” “PNG Professional Boxing Control Board Chairman Mr. Bernard Foam has been in the front line pushing professional boxing and seeking promoters to come on board and we are hopeful that one day we can have more promoters coming onboard.” Raka said big countries like Australia and Asian countries invest more in boxing because they see big money in boxing. He said professional fighters enter the arena of World Titles such as Heavyweight: WBA, Bridger weight: WBA, Light heavyweight, Super middleweight, Middleweight, Super welterweight and other world titles. "That is where the big money is, and if we have promoters that promote fighters who do better in the national tournaments and then later in the international stage, we will be looking at over thousands and even hundreds of thousand of kina.” Mr. Raka explained that for men the competition is a bit hard as they would have to go through many stages and challenges to come out as the best fighters, however, it is not the same for the female category. “Because there are not many women fighters, there are not many fights or steps to go through, once they turn pro and fight in 1 or 2 international fights and do better, they can become world champions and that is a good career path and financial stability for women in boxing.” With almost 20 boxing clubs in the Nation's Capital and other boxing clubs around the country, the need for promoters to come on board is very big. “Having Promoters can mean we can scout more talents, who are recognized and have at least some financial supports to help them in their boxing journey as well as having a stable life outside or the arena too.” There are pathways and discipline involved in boxing, thus more kids, youths and girls are urged to take up boxing, to stay sharp, healthy and focus on life.

A second round of formal consultations between the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government, was held recently from 7 to 10 April 2025 in Port Moresby. The second of consultation forms part of a scheduled series of four consultations taking place between March and June 2025. Bougainville Independent Moderator, Sir Jerry Mateparae stated that it the second consultation was built upon the outcomes of the first meeting, during which Prime Minister James Marape and President Ishmael Toroama presented their respective visions for Bougainville’s political future. “The primary focus of this round was to identify and agree upon key issues requiring resolution to advance toward a mutually acceptable political settlement.” “Discussions centered around four thematic pillars: Political, Institutional, Economic, and Parliamentary matters.” Sir Mateparae highlighted that within these pillars, the parties engaged in constructive dialogue on a range of critical topics, including consultation processes, the nature of the future relationship, transitional timing, institutional preparedness, fiscal arrangements, political economy, constitutional considerations, parliamentary processes and awareness. Both Prime Minister Marape (joined by Minister Makiba) and President Toroama (joined by Minister Masatt) reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the path of peaceful dialogue. These leaders acknowledged the importance of sustained engagement and mutual respect in navigating this historic process. “The next consultation is scheduled to take place at Burnham, New Zealand — a location of historical significance, having hosted key negotiations in 1997 that led to the Bougainville Peace Agreement which was signed in 2001.” “I commend both parties for their continued dedication to peaceful dialogue, and I remain honored to support their efforts toward a lasting and meaningful resolution,” said Sir Mateparae.

Following an illegal session of Assembly conducted by the Namatanai MP, Walter Schnaubelt, the Acting Governor for New Ireland province, Sammy Missen has come out and stated that he disagrees with Mr. Schnaubelt’s actions as he did not follow proper processes. Acting Governor Missen stated that the New Ireland Provincial Government under his leadership still intact despite the Namatanai MP Walter Schnaubelt illegally instructing the Assembly clerk Ao Ure to conduct an illegal session of Assembly for his own convenience to be elected Governor on Friday 28th March. Leader of Government business Edwin Maingen said the Assembly sitting was illegal because under the Organic law on Provincial & Local Level Governments and standing orders of the Assembly, stated clearly that every meeting of the Assembly, the Chairman has the power to convene any meetings. “When there is a vacancy in the office of the Governor as per section 14 (3) (d), the Deputy Governor shall perform the functions and responsibilities of the Governor as Chairman of the Provincial Assembly.” “So, my question is, who chaired the illegal meeting?” He said the office of the Deputy Governor is a constitutional office as captured under section 18 (1) and he has never vacated, been dismissed or resigned from office as per section 18 (a) (b) (c) of the law. Acting Governor Missen said it was obvious the MP for Namatanai wants to become the next Governor of New Ireland unopposed, but the Provincial Assembly is a constitutional entity and guarded by its own jurisdictions and standing orders separate to the National Parliament and must be respected as a house of the people. He said Schnaubelt’s behaviour was similar to a tyrant and dictator and questioned why he was in a hurry to become Governor without being elected through a legal sitting of the Assembly. “No one is stopping Schnaubelt from becoming Governor, but due process must be followed. And the bulldozing into the Assembly Chambers without my presence as the Chairman of the Assembly is deemed illegal,” said Missen. He also said the letter by the Minister for Provincial & Local Level Government affairs Soroi Eoe did not give them the legal right to convene the Assembly sitting forthwith without him being the legal authority of the house being present to preside the meeting. A Gorgor was placed outside the New Ireland Legislative Assembly gates after the illegal sitting. Maimai Stanley Peni acting on behalf of the Provincial Government, said the sitting was illegal and any disputes must be settled in court. The acting Governor has also called for New Irelanders to remain calm and for the Police force to maintain neutrality while the Provincial Government deals with the courts.

With so much effect from the climate change happening in the Pacific region, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is scaling up early warning systems in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu to enhance national and community resilience against disaster risks. This initiative, funded by the Government of Japan, aligns with the United Nations Secretary General’s Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) strategy and regional commitments to disaster preparedness. In early March, the Government of Japan allocated US$ 55 million to support a wide range of operations to be implemented by IOM in 2025, in line with IOM’s Global Appeal. The funding will enable IOM to help migrants, displaced persons, returnees, and communities affected by crises, conflict, and disaster in 33 countries. The Pacific region is highly vulnerable to climate-related and geohazard disasters, with existing gaps in early warning coverage and accessibility. Through the initiative, IOM will enhance the capacity of 24 Emergency Operation Centres, improve localized telecommunication linkages, and support 15 communities with scalable early warning packages. Additionally, national mapping exercises and regional exchanges between Fiji, Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu will strengthen best practices and enhance disaster response coordination. "Ensuring that at-risk communities receive timely and actionable early warnings is critical to saving lives and reducing disaster-induced displacement,” said IOM Chief of Mission/ Sub-Regional Coordinator Solomon Kantha. “The projects in Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu will see IOM working closely with their local counterparts and government agencies and identify and prioritize assistance to vulnerable communities.” The EW4All initiative is a testament to the long-standing partnership between IOM and the Government of Japan and the collective effort to assist the broader pacific region.

Following a productive Anti-Money Laundering Banking Forum that was held recently, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) and Kina Bank are reaffirming their commitment to tackling corruption and money laundering in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Mr. Daniel Baulch, Deputy Commissioner of Operations at ICAC, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, ICAC is fully aware of the destructive impact that corruption has on our country, and that corruption diverts crucial public funds that could otherwise support vital services, damage the business environment, and erodes public trust. “Money laundering, as a direct consequence of corruption, continues to be a major challenge for Papua New Guinea.” “Through the forum, we are strengthening our collaboration with the banking sector to identify and confront this issue head-on.” Baulch highlighted that ICAC, in partnership with the banking sector, is taking significant steps toward improving the country’s effectiveness in tackling money laundering. “The financial sector plays a crucial role in investigating corruption and preventing money laundering, thus by working together, we can gain access to critical financial documents, banking records, and other data that enable us to carry out investigations and bring perpetrators to justice.” The recent forum was attended by senior representatives from most major banks in the country, including the Kina Bank CEO and Chief Risk Officer. It focused on the role the banking sector plays in both facilitating and combating money laundering initiatives. The discussions provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by financial institutions and offered an opportunity to further encourage their compliance with anti-money laundering protocols and their support for ICAC's investigative efforts. Kina Bank valued the opportunity to participate in the recent ICAC Banking Sector Forum and commend the ongoing efforts on transparency and integrity in the financial sector. Kina Bank's involvement highlights its commitment to support the strengthening of governance that will help create a stable and secure economic environment in PNG. Kina Bank continues to collaborate with ICAC and remains committed to sustaining PNG’s financial hub. The forum also addressed Papua New Guinea’s ranking on the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), which scored Papua New Guinea 31 out of 100. Ms. Arianne Kassman, CEO of TIPNG, noted, that the CPI and the recent Financial Action Task Force (FATF) assessment show that we are not making enough progress in the fight against corruption. “While we have laws and policies in place, what is lacking is the proper enforcement and implementation of these measures. It is imperative that we all take meaningful action to address corruption.” Kassman emphasised the need for a collective effort between civil society, the private sector, and the government to combat corruption more effectively. “Today, we offered the banking sector insights into how civil society can be an active partner in this work, and it is crucial that we are part of these conversations, not only to understand the complexities of the issue but to also communicate the importance of tackling corruption to the public, who are the most affected.” Both ICAC and TIPNG are committed to advancing a systemic, whole-of-country approach to combating money laundering and corruption. Meanwhile, Baulch stressed, “We must be serious and united in this effort. Corruption is systemic, and money laundering is also systemic, if we don’t work together, we will continue to face significant challenges now and in the future.” The organizations look forward to continuing their dialogue with the banking sector and other stakeholders to make meaningful progress in combating corruption and money laundering in Papua New Guinea.

Four schools in the vicinity of the PNG LNG Plant site in the Central province recently received new educational infrastructures thanks to the operator of the PNG LNG, ExxonMobil PNG Limited. In a gesture to show and strengthen the long-standing commitment to education in Papua New Guinea (PNG), ExxonMobil PNG Limited handed over seven newly built educational infrastructure projects valued at almost K2 million to the communities of Lealea, Papa, Boera and Porebada. Lealea and Boera Primary schools together with Papa Junior High School each received a double story classroom while Porebada Primary School got a double story duplex classroom. In addition to the classrooms, Lealea Primary School and Papa Junior High School each got a new staff house, while Porebada Primary School got keys to a brand-new administration building. “At ExxonMobil, we believe that education drives social and economic development and improves living standards, which is why it has been a long-standing community investment focus area for us,” said Dinesh Sivasamboo, Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG Limited. “A well-structured learning environment, infused with the right resources and a positive atmosphere, can be transformative for both students and staff.” “Infrastructure investments like these clearly demonstrate our partnership with, and ongoing commitment to – PNG and its people,” Sivasamboo said. In acknowledging the support from ExxonMobil PNG, Mr. Taumaku Baru, Board of Management Chairman of Porebada Primary School, encouraged the community to look after the newly built infrastructure. “I thank ExxonMobil PNG for their continuous support to our schools and community, for now the challenge comes back to teachers, students and parents on how well we can look after these facilities for the future,” he said. ExxonMobil PNG’s ongoing investment in education across schools neighbouring the PNG LNG Plant site has also included first aid units, educational programs and computer donations. Since LNG production commenced in 2014, ExxonMobil PNG has invested more than K18 million in educational initiatives across its project areas ranging from refurbishing and building new school facilities and teacher’s houses, WASH amenities, secure fencing, distribution of SBC textbooks and teacher training materials, stationery support, uniforms and sports equipment.