This week in Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is actively engaged in disaster recovery following Cyclone Maila, which left a trail of death and destruction, with relief efforts scaling up in affected areas like Bougainville. Concurrently, Prime Minister James Marape launched a K14.6 million infrastructure project in Nakanai District, while a parliamentary inquiry is advocating for urgent media reforms, including the potential replacement of colonial-era press laws. Positive developments include a reconciliation among Bougainville resource owners after a nine-year dispute, clearing the path for exploration.
About Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea, a nation of extraordinary linguistic and cultural diversity, boasts a rich tapestry of indigenous traditions and abundant natural resources, from dense rainforests to active volcanoes. Its challenging mountainous geography and dispersed population significantly shape daily life and news dissemination. The country maintains a small but independent media market, where journalists often face logistical hurdles in covering this geographically fragmented nation.
Visiting Papua New Guinea
Media landscape
Papua New Guinea has a partly-free press environment, characterized by a small but independent media market. Journalists navigate significant logistical challenges due to the country's dispersed geography.
Be aware that news coverage can be impacted by the country's diverse languages and challenging terrain, which may limit the reach of some outlets.
De La Salle Secondary School holds annual culture show
- De La Salle Secondary School is holding its annual Culture Show at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby. - The event serves as a platform for young men to connect with diverse traditions acros…
New Ireland commits K1 million to Farmers
- The New Ireland Provincial Government committed K1 million to a partnership with the Fresh Produce Development Authority (FPDA). - This investment aims to boost commercial agriculture, food security…
Papua New Guinea initiative to enhance safety for female journalists
- Women in Media Papua New Guinea (WIM PNG) is launching an initiative to improve safety and inclusivity for female journalists. - The organization advocates for equal opportunities, professional deve…
Commonwealth Officer Appointed to Lead RPNGC Internal Affairs
- Commonwealth officer Chief Superintendent Withers has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Internal Affairs Directorate. - The appointment by Police Commissioner David Manning aims to str…
Divine Word University Hosts Digital Journalism Training Workshop
- Divine Word University (DWU) hosted a journalism training workshop on July 17, 2026, focusing on effective and ethical digital journalism. - The workshop aimed to enhance journalists' skills in the …
Kimbe Market Authority and Womens Bank MoU progressing well
- The Kimbe Market Authority (KMA) and the Womens Bank (Mama Bank) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). - The MoU is reportedly progressing well, according to KMA Manager Diane Mirio. - Fu…
ICT Ministry marks official handover of Ministerial Responsibilities
- Papua New Guinea's Ministry of Information and Communications Technology held a handover ceremony between the outgoing and incoming acting ministers. - The event symbolized the continuation of the g…
We must not kill investment in PNG: PM Marape
- Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape stated that the government must not deter investment. - Marape emphasized the need to balance the government's "take back PNG" policy with maintaining …
Hidden Valley is running a Brownfield mine
- The Hidden Valley Mine in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea, is operating as a "brownfield" mine, meaning it is an established site with existing infrastructure. - Prime Minister James Marape stated…
Air Niugini to resume direct Port Moresby–Auckland services after 26 years
- Air Niugini will reintroduce direct flights between Port Moresby and Auckland starting November 17, 2026. - This service will be the first non-stop flight between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand in…
Papua New Guinea Government Moves to Reacquire Stakes in Major Agri-Firms
- The Papua New Guinean government is negotiating to buy back significant stakes in Ramu Agri Industries and New Britain Palm Oil Limited (NBPOL). - The move aims to return ownership of key agricultur…
24 years of lip Service: Nomane blasts Maru over stalled K300m PMIZ Project
- Opposition Leader James Nomane criticized Minister Richard Maru for the 24-year delay of the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) project in Madang. - Nomane accused Maru of only offering "lip serv…
ABG Vice President urges education officials to align curriculum with Independence Goal
- The Vice President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government urged education officials to align the curriculum with the region's independence goals. - Officials were challenged to ensure educational…
Minister Tsiamalili: Education must cultivate wisdom, not just titles
- Papua New Guinea's Minister for Works and Highways, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, urged educators to prioritize character development. - Speaking at the Senior Education Officers Conference, he stressed tha…
Opposition Leader Only MP On Time as Lack of Quorum Halts Parliament
- Parliament in Papua New Guinea adjourned on its final sitting day due to a lack of quorum. - The article suggests the adjournment was caused by MPs failing to show up on time. - Access to the full a…
MRDC’s 2024 Financial Results –Context, Clarity and Confidence
- The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, presented the Mineral Resources Development Company's (MRDC) 2024 audited financial statements to Parliament. - This presentation marks a signif…
Justice Minister grilled over Chief Magistrate’s 15-month expired term
- Deputy Opposition Leader Keith Iduhu revealed the head of Papua New Guinea's District Court system has served with an expired appointment for 15 months. - The revelation sparked a clash in Parliamen…
National St John Ambulance welcomes PM's commitment to emergency services
- The National St John Ambulance welcomed Prime Minister James Marape's renewed commitment to enhancing emergency medical services in Papua New Guinea. - The organization expressed its support for the…
Nasfund CEO Details Investment Plans for Member Returns and PNG Resource Growth
- Nasfund CEO Rajeev Sharma detailed investment strategies aimed at increasing member returns and supporting Papua New Guinea's resource sector growth. - The fund is evaluating investment structures t…
Nasfund CEO Highlights Importance of Target-Based Retirement Planning
- Nasfund highlighted the importance of target-based retirement planning at PNG Resources Week. - The fund emphasized that retirement planning should consider lifestyle needs, not just the desired ret…
Preserving stories for future generations
- Work is progressing on Volume 2 of the Papua New Guinea Dictionary of Biography. - Academics, researchers, and writers convened in Port Moresby to contribute to the new volume. - This follows the su…
Bougainville Police Service Faces Calls for Reform Amid K3.5 Million Fraud Scandal
- The Bougainville Police Service (BPS) is facing calls for leadership reform due to a K3.5 million fraud scandal. - The Provincial Administration Officer (PAO), Moses Kulapia, was arrested and charge…
US Soldiers Find Personal Growth and Cultural Exchange in Papua New Guinea Military Exercise
- US soldiers from the Wisconsin Army National Guard are participating in Exercise Tamiok Strike 2026 in Papua New Guinea. - The exercise focuses on bilateral military readiness between the U.S. Army …
Joint Force Readiness: Exercise Tamiok Strike 2026 heats up at Murray Barracks
- Exercise Tamiok Strike 2026, a bilateral training event between the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and the U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC), has entered a dynamic phase at Murray Barracks. - The …
ON THIS DAY IN OUR HISTORY: Wedding in a plane
- A Port Moresby couple, Murray and Carol Walker, achieved a unique milestone by getting married in a light aircraft 2500 feet above the city. - The ceremony, which included music played by a local DJ…
Bio Gas has potential for power supply in WNB Province
- Biogas produced from palm oil waste in West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, shows potential for power generation. - This renewable energy source could supply power for the entire province. -…
Parliament Roll Call - MP’s who asked questions:
- The Post-Courier newspaper in Papua New Guinea has a long-standing record of reporting on the nation's progress since its independence. - The newspaper covers a wide range of topics including nation…
Papua New Guinea Launches National Health Financing Reform Pilot Study in Gulf Province
- A national health financing reform study has begun in Papua New Guinea's Gulf Province. - The pilot study aims to reshape how Provincial Health Authorities are financed. - It is expected to strength…
Kokopau Community Rallies Against Violence: Robust Awareness Initiative Transforms Local Wards
- Kokopau community leaders in Selau Constituency concluded an advocacy initiative to combat social injustices. - The initiative focused on Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence (SARV), Gender-Based Vio…
Consistency in Selection Ahead of Blackhawks Clash
- Hunters coach Paul Aiton can finally name an unchanged lineup for consecutive weeks. - This consistency is a significant boost for the struggling team. - The team has faced a severe injury crisis th…
Ward governance training aims to empower ward leadership in remote New Ireland communities
- Ward governance training is being conducted in remote New Ireland communities to empower local leadership. - Village and Ward Development Committees have struggled with inactivity and ineffectivenes…
Look to the Villages and Churches: Pascoe urges PNG to nominate quiet achievers
- Following her withdrawal from the Westpac Outstanding Women Awards, Pascoe Events founder has challenged Papua New Guineans. - The challenge is to shift focus towards recognizing the country's unher…
Oro Governor seeks clarification on TSSP contracts, Kokoda Highway
- Oro Province Governor Gary Juffa has requested clarification from the Works and Highways Minister regarding the Transport Sector Support Program (TSSP). - Juffa also sought an update on the progress…
Health Minister's private ambulance ties questioned ahead of St John Ambulance Bill
- Member for Abau, Sir Puka Temu, has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest regarding new ambulance legislation. - Sir Puka highlighted that the newly appointed Health Minister, Dr. Bi…
Fly River MP urges government to fast-track border facilities as river dries up
- Fly River MP James Donald is urging the government to expedite the establishment of border facilities at the PNG-Indonesia border. - His electorate is currently cut off due to low river levels, whic…
Port Moresby International airport launches premium taxi service
- Port Moresby International Airport has launched a new premium taxi service. - The service was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. - The launch was attended by the outgoing Minister for…
Marape assures districts of full DSIP funding amid El Niño concerns
- Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape has assured districts that they will receive full funding for the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP). - This assurance comes amid concerns ab…
Cricket PNG hosts ICC training to build certified coach tutor trainers
- Cricket PNG is hosting an ICC Level One Coach Tutor Training event from July 14-16, 2026. - The training aims to develop Certified Coach Tutor Trainers in Papua New Guinea. - This initiative is a ke…
Sir Theo Foundation strengthens commitment to second-chance education
- The Sir Theo Foundation has reiterated its dedication to improving educational access. - The foundation donated K280,000 to the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF). - These funds will support the Pari and…
Partnership ensures genuine motor accident claimants
- Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL) and the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding. - The agreement aims to improve the verification …
Papua New Guinea's ICAC Deputy Commissioner urges public support against corruption
- Thomas Eluh, the newly appointed Deputy Commissioner of Papua New Guinea's Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), has urged citizens to support the institution. - Eluh, who is also the ou…
Cross-Border Trade Sustains Middle Fly Communities During Ongoing Dry Spell
- Communities in Papua New Guinea's Middle Fly District rely on cross-border trade with Indonesia for essential goods. - The trade involves selling local products like deer meat and makau for income. …
Markham Athletes Clinch All 26 Medals at Regional Championship
- Markham athletes dominated the Highlands Regional Athletics Championship, securing all 26 available medals. - The team of 18 athletes represented Markham at the event held in Goroka. - This victory …
William Bando Appointed Immigration Minister in Papua New Guinea
- William Bando has been appointed as the new Minister for Immigration and Border Security in Papua New Guinea. - He previously served as the Minister for Coffee and as the Member for Koroba-Lake Kopi…
Kikori Landowners Encouraged to Unite for Papua LNG Project Benefits
- Landowners from the Kikori region of Papua New Guinea's Gulf Province are urged to collaborate for the Papua LNG Project. - Soroi Eoe, Member for Kikori and Minister for Provincial and Local Level G…
Papua LNG Wider Project Pathway Involves Several Important Workstreams
- The Papua LNG project is progressing with several key workstreams underway. - A development forum is scheduled in Port Moresby within 60 days, followed by an intended National Executive Council deci…
Teacher's Grueling Mountain Trek for Remote School
- Adory Anigalu, a teacher at Kondu Elementary School in Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay Province, walks for nearly two hours daily to reach the school. - He travels from Wadauda, a remote rainforest vil…
Steamships, Australia Awards PNG Renew Commitment to Women in Maritime
- Steamships Ship Management (SSM) and Australia Awards PNG have renewed their commitment to advancing women in maritime careers. - They signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to reaffirm their de…
Chief Censor: Censorship starts at home, be a responsible viewer
- Papua New Guinea's Chief Censor, Jim Abani, stated that censorship begins at home and urged responsible viewership. - Abani noted that the Office of Censorship has received numerous public complaint…
NSL promotes financial security in retirement savings
- Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) provided on-site Member Services to Magistrates at the 2026 Magisterial Service Biennial Judicial Conference in Port Moresby. - Over 70 Magistrates from across Papua New…
Parliament to consider landmark National Ownership Law
- Papua New Guinea's government plans to introduce a significant economic reform bill focused on national ownership and commercialization of the country's natural resources. - The proposed Organic Law…
Fiji’s HIV crisis is a syringe crisis and the fix is sitting on a pharmacy shelf
- Fiji declared a national HIV outbreak in January 2025, with new case notifications rising twelvefold between 2018 and 2024. - Injecting drug use is identified as the primary route of HIV infection i…
No need for new ministers
- The Post-Courier's front page headline suggested "Heads to roll" regarding potential changes in ministerial appointments. - The article indicates that by 9 a.m. the following day, it would be known …
Captain claims he wet himself during armed boarding by Australian soldiers
- A Taiwanese fishing boat captain testified in court that he urinated himself when Australian soldiers boarded his vessel in May. - The captain, Hsu Jin Te, claims a soldier pointed a gun at him duri…
Law Society launches new website to boost transparency public public access
- The Papua New Guinea Law Society has launched a new official website. - The website aims to increase transparency, public access, and accountability within the legal profession. - It is intended to …
Madang hosts successful Trukai Fun Run for Team PNG
- Madang successfully hosted the annual Trukai Fun Run on Sunday morning. - The event raised funds to support Team PNG's participation in the upcoming Olympic Games. - Participants gathered to contrib…
NPA has completed awareness activities for Papua LNG
- The National Petroleum Authority (NAP) has concluded awareness activities for the Papua LNG project in both upstream and downstream areas. - Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina confirmed the completio…
Road to NRL 2028: Development Contracts Spark Debate for PNG Talent
- Development contracts for London Broncos and PNG Kumuls trio Gairo Voro, Morea Morea, and Finlay Glare with the PNG Chiefs have been announced. - The news has generated excitement but also debate am…
Pacific Civil Society to Global Powers: The Pacific is an ocean of peace, not a battleground
- Pacific civil society groups condemn recent ICBM tests by China and the U.S. over the Pacific Ocean. - They call for an end to militarization and nuclear threats, emphasizing the region's importance…
Forgotten landowners demand answers over Mt Fubilan recognition
- The National Government faces pressure to clarify conflicting decisions regarding the principal landowners of Mt Fubilan. - Ablemkaimin community leader Chief Lawrence Labubiap Stabbi Sakam warns th…
Papua LNG Project Forum Gathers Stakeholders for Benefit-Sharing Talks
- The Papua LNG Project development forum brings together the developer, the PNG Government, and impacted landowners for discussions. - The meeting aims to reach agreements on benefit-sharing to allow…
PC Online Tidbits
- The article touches on sportsmanship, crime, business opportunities, political appointments, and scams in Papua New Guinea. - It notes a general dissatisfaction with referee decisions in sports and …
First 20 Mothers receive SME loan statements under NDDA Partnership Program
- Twenty mothers in Papua New Guinea received SME loan statements under a partnership program. - The program aims to empower women through access to finance and encourage entrepreneurship. - A total o…
Community Spirit Shines at 2026 Trukai Fun Run for Commonwealth Games Fundraiser
- The 2026 Trukai Fun Run attracted thousands of participants, combining community spirit with fundraising for Team PNG's Commonwealth Games preparations. - Proceeds from the annual event will support…
Financial literacy training empowers 68 rural Papua New Guineans
- 68 people from two villages in Papua New Guinea graduated from a financial literacy training program. - The week-long training, organized by Niu Ailan Savings and Loan Society, taught practical mone…
New savings agency opens in Danu as foundation marks 10 years
- A new savings and loan agency opened in the remote Danu community in New Ireland, providing easier access to financial services. - The opening coincided with the 10th anniversary of the West Coast D…
Trukai Fun Run Participants Make Final Push Back to Stadium
- The 2026 Trukai Fun Run in Papua New Guinea is nearing its conclusion as participants make their way back to the stadium. - Water stations provided refreshments at the turning point for runners and …
2026 Trukai Fun Run Underway
- Papua New Guinea's largest community fun run, the 2026 Trukai Fun Run, has officially begun with thousands of participants. - The event started at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and follows a course to t…
Trukai Fun Run 2026 Kicks Off to Support Team PNG for Commonwealth Games
- The Trukai Fun Run 2026 is set to begin at 6 a.m. today at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. - The event is a major fundraiser for Team PNG's Commonwealth Games preparations in Glasgow. - Simultaneous runs…
PNG-Vanuatu Police Pact Targets Rising Transnational Crime Threat
- Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu have signed a police cooperation agreement to combat rising transnational crime. - Police leaders expressed concern that criminal networks are exploiting the Pacific's e…
PM Marape launches Papua LNG Benefit Sharing Process, calls for unity
- Prime Minister James Marape launched the Papua LNG Benefit Sharing Process in Port Moresby. - He urged stakeholders to unite and ensure transparency as the project nears a Final Investment Decision.…
PNG promoted at Manila Travel Expo
- Air Niugini and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority are participating in the Travel Madness Expo 2026 in Manila, Philippines. - They are showcasing Papua New Guinea's tourism offerings …
PNG Rugby Stars Shine in UK, Eye Historic NRL Entry
- Three Papua New Guinean rugby league players and their coach discussed their success with the London Broncos in the UK. - The players recently signed historic development contracts with the PNG Chie…
All issues of Papua LNG must be heard :PM Marape
- Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape has instructed the Petroleum Minister to address all issues related to the Papua LNG project. - The instruction was given during the official launch of…
UPNG to rebuild all Programs: Adapt to AI or get left behind
- The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) is undertaking an academic review of all its courses and programs. - The review aims to integrate technology, artificial intelligence, and modern workplace …
Nasfund rolls out mobile service booths for members
- Nasfund has launched mobile service booths to bring its offices closer to members. - These booths will offer services such as balance inquiries, statement requests, and updating membership details. …
Pacific police support group celebrates 2026 first graduating cohort
- A police training program in Brisbane, Australia, has graduated its first cohort for 2026. - The 24-week intensive course aimed to strengthen operational skills, leadership, and regional cooperation…
Nasfund’s Golden Shell Club
- The National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) encourages members to contribute consistently to achieve savings goals like the Golden Shell Club. - The Golden Shell Club recognizes members who have accu…
Central Province Must Not Be Marginalized: Governor Rufina Peter on LNG Forum Opportunity
- Governor Rufina Peter emphasizes that the Central Province should not be marginalized. - She highlights the Papua LNG Forum proposal as a significant opportunity for the province's future. - The gov…
Papua LNG Development Forum leads towards achieving an agreement on benefit sharing
- The Papua LNG Development Forum has reached a milestone, moving closer to an agreement on benefit sharing. - This project, initiated 26 years ago, is crucial for Papua New Guinea's economy. - Access…
PNG Chiefs 001 Jarome Luai deemed surplus to requirements as Tigers show him the exit door
- Jarome Luai, co-captain of the Wests Tigers, has been permitted to leave the club at the end of the 2026 NRL season. - Luai is committed to joining the PNG Chiefs when the club enters the NRL, but h…
Papua LNG provides opportunity to correct mistakes learnt from PNG LNG
- The Papua LNG project presents an opportunity for stakeholders to learn from and correct mistakes made during the PNG LNG project. - This sentiment was expressed by Keith Iduhu, Member for Hiri-Koia…
US commits $30 Million to roll out Starlink across Papua New Guinea
- The United States is investing $30 million to deploy Starlink satellite internet across Papua New Guinea. - The initiative aims to connect remote communities and bridge the digital divide. - High-sp…
Papua New Guinea Minister Welcomes Historic Reforms on Natural Resource Benefit Sharing
- Papua New Guinea's Kairuku and Energy Minister Peter Isoaimo welcomed reforms to benefit-sharing from natural resources. - The amendments update Section 98 of the Organic Law on Provincial Governmen…
South Bougainville MP backs National Education Conference in Buka with K100,000 boost
- South Bougainville MP Timothy Masiu has donated K100,000 to the Autonomous Bougainville Government's Department of Education. - The donation supports the upcoming National Education Conference in Bu…
Australia-PNG Mutual Defence Treaty Enters Into Force
- Australia and Papua New Guinea have announced the entry into force of their Mutual Defence Treaty, referred to as the "Pukpuk Treaty." - The treaty signifies a deepening of security cooperation betw…
Solomon Islands, PNG deepen cooperation on mining sector reforms
- Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea agreed to enhance cooperation on mining sector governance reforms. - Officials from Papua New Guinea will visit Solomon Islands to support these reforms, aiming …
PC Online Tidbits
- The article critiques the practice of senior officials facing serious charges continuing in their roles, suggesting they should stand down pending legal outcomes. - It notes that wealthy individuals…
Kumura Urges Usino-Bundi-Gama Landowners to Reject Compensation Claims for Road Project
- A local leader urged landowners in Usino-Bundi-Gama, Madang province, to reject compensation claims for a road project. - The leader warned against decisions that could divert potential benefits and…
PNG Power will appeal the Dirio Court Decision
- PNG Power Limited announced it will appeal a recent court decision concerning a claim by Dirio Gas and Power Limited. - The National Court ruling on July 7, 2026, involved PNG Power, KCH, and the St…
Air Niugini resumes direct services between Port Moresby and Tokyo, Japan
- Air Niugini will resume direct flights between Port Moresby and Tokyo starting July 18, 2026. - The resumption of services aims to enhance travel and trade connections between Papua New Guinea and J…
UPNG staff join national home ownership scheme
- Staff at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) are participating in a national home ownership scheme. - Fifty-six houses are available for sale exclusively to the university's national employees…
Bumbu settlers and Butibam villagers reach peace agreement
- Three communities in Lae's Bumbu settlement have signed a peace agreement with Butibam villagers. - The agreement aims to resolve ongoing disharmony between the groups. - Further details require a s…
Brewing Success: Australia and NGIP-Agmark Boost PNG’s Cocoa Future
- Papua New Guinea's cocoa farmers are receiving Australian support to access premium international markets. - The initiative aims to help farmers meet emerging global sustainability standards. - This…
The boy at the airport fence
- Leeroy Karapo's childhood dream of flying was nurtured by his father's foresight in nominating him as a beneficiary for his retirement savings. - His father's Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) Retirement…
K20 Million Corporate Powerhouse: Santos solidifies long-term vision for PNG sports
- Santos has invested over K20 million in Papua New Guinea's sports, solidifying its role as a major financial backer, particularly for women's rugby league. - The company's commitment includes K3 mil…
NRL Legend Matthew Bowen Champions Youth and Community Development in PNG
- Former NRL star Matthew Bowen plans to establish his elite sports performance academy in Papua New Guinea. - The academy aims to use rugby league to inspire youth, develop talent, and support commun…
Building connections for inclusive leadership
- The Australia Awards program is collaborating with Papua New Guinea to enhance women's leadership. - A Women in Leadership Short Course has gathered 30 professionals from PNG's public, private, and …
Buk Bilong Pikinini set to expand book series and inspire
- Buk Bilong Pikinini will publish three new titles in its 'When I Grow Up' series this year. - The series aims to inspire children by encouraging them to envision future professions. - The organizati…
Papua New Guinea Tidbits: Sports, Bureaucracy, and Innovation
- The article presents a series of short, unrelated tidbits from Papua New Guinea, covering diverse topics. - It touches on the upcoming State of Origin rugby league match, a minor administrative blun…
