Real change starts with individuals and the actions each one takes; it is not just through government policies.

That was the message delivered to over two thousand people who participated in the 16th Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption (SASWAC), that gathered at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby city on Sunday morning.

They weather that morning was quite chilly at first but gradually warned up, which then saw participants from 190 teams representing various corporate organizations, government departments and agencies, schools, SMEs, civil society groups and families, gathered to warm up, hear the speeches and then walk against corruption.

Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) Board Director Mr. Richard Kassman gave the opening speech, where he said national transformation in PNG, particularly in the fight against corruption, depends on the daily choices and actions of ordinary citizens.

Focusing on the theme of the walk- "Integrity & Action Now", this year's event emphasized that combating corruption requires more than public frustration – it requires individual and collective action.

"You have turned up not just to walk, but to make it known that integrity matters deeply to you, to your families, and to our beautiful country," Mr. Kassman said.

"Integrity begins with the everyday choices made by citizens, public servants, businesses, and leaders. Action means speaking up, demanding accountability, supporting transparency initiatives, and strengthening institutions that serve the public interest."

The TIPNG Board Director’s speech carries with it an urging as well for authorities to take action given the fact that PNG is currently gray listed and the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), does not look chummy.

According to the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) published by Transparency International, PNG scored 26 out of 100, where 0 is “Highly Corrupt” and 100 means “Very Clean.” This CPI was released by Transparency International back in February 2026.

Nevertheless, TIPNG continues the good fight, and it’s such initiatives like the SASWAC that serves as fundraisers to support their work in keeping the powers that be, in check.

As an independent, non-governmental anti-corruption organization, TIPNG relies entirely on this type of public and corporate support to maintain its operational reach. Securing localized funding through SASWAC ensures TIPNG’s absolute ability to speak out objectively on governance issues, entirely free from political influence or external donor agendas.