Milne Bay cricketer Mesi Beloa made an impressive debut at Amini Park in Port Moresby, delivering a standout bowling performance on Day One of the rescheduled Boroko Motors ISUZU Men’s T20 Smash, despite his team’s loss. The 27-year-old fast bowler from Ahioma, Milne Bay Province, fulfilled a long-held dream of playing at the country’s premier cricket venue, marking the occasion with a strong showing against the Cassowaries. “It was a personal celebration for me when I hit the wicket. I was so happy, I dreamt of this day, to come to Port Moresby and play cricket at Amini Park,” Beloa said. Representing the Black Bass, Beloa returned impressive figures of 3 wickets for 8 runs from 3 overs, including one maiden and 11 dot balls, finishing with an economy rate of 2.67 in the opening match. Beloa, who plays for United Cricket Club in Milne Bay, has been involved in the sport for six years. His selection into the Black Bass squad highlights ongoing efforts by Cricket PNG to identify and develop talent from across the country, particularly from regions outside traditional high-performance centres. The ISUZU Men’s T20 Smash, running from March 19 to 29, serves as a key domestic competition aimed at strengthening player pathways. The tournament brings together emerging cricketers from across Papua New Guinea, offering them the opportunity to compete alongside and against members of the national men’s team, the Barramundis, and the U19 Garamuts squad. “It is an opportunity for me to take the experience back home. Playing alongside national players is not easy, but I want to learn, listen, and contribute to the team.” He also encouraged aspiring cricketers in Milne Bay to remain committed to the sport, emphasizing discipline and passion as key to success. “I want the youths and men back home to play cricket with commitment and passion. One day, you will have the opportunity to play alongside the country’s best players,” he added. Beloa said representing his province on the national stage was a proud moment, noting Milne Bay’s strong cricket history but limited representation in major domestic tournaments. He also stated that the competition provided an important platform to showcase talent from the province. While the Black Bass were defeated by the Cassowaries by 61 runs, Beloa’s performance stood out as a promising sign of the growing depth of cricket talent emerging from across Papua New Guinea’s regions. “I know it is a big dream, but I hope to play in the national team. And if not, I hope someone from Milne Bay does,” he said.

ACP Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi has issued a warning to residents of Tete Settlement and the Erima Wildlife area in Port Moresby to vacate their homes, confirming that long-standing court-ordered evictions will be enforced at any time. The eviction orders affect settlers living at Tete Settlement in the Moresby Northwest Electorate, particularly those in the front area near the field and those residing along the ridge in the Erima Wildlife area overlooking the Golf Course in Moresby Northeast. Chief Superintendent Turi said the affected residents had already been informed of the situation over several years, following court decisions dating back to 2018 and 2019, which ruled against the settlers. He explained that while police will carry out further awareness in the affected communities, all legal processes have been completed, and eviction orders are now in place. “Those who represented you in court regarding this land court case lost the court battle, so I would appreciate it if our citizens residing in these mentioned locations start to move out immediately because eviction will take place at any time from now. It is best that you leave, or the machines will move you out,” Turi said. Police say the evictions are being carried out in accordance with court directives and requests from legitimate landowners, with officers tasked to ensure the process is conducted lawfully. Turi also reminded city residents that occupying land without legal ownership places them at risk of eviction, stressing the importance of proper land documentation. “On that note, I want the city residents to take note that if you want to reside in any areas in the city, you must have land titles to settle. If you do not, then you are illegal settlers in the city because the NCDC, the government, and others who have titles are the genuine landowners, so they can carry out evictions when people purchase land or want to develop that area,” he said. He added that police have limited discretion in such matters, as their role is to enforce court orders and directives issued by authorities. Beyond the immediate evictions, Turi urged individuals planning to move into Port Moresby to prepare adequately before arriving in the city. He said people should have clear arrangements on where they will stay, who they will live with, and what plans they have in place should circumstances change. With eviction orders now confirmed and enforcement imminent, authorities are urging affected residents to relocate voluntarily to avoid forced removals, as police continue to uphold court decisions and land ownership laws in the capital.

The Papua New Guinea Women’s National Team, the PNG Bilums, have returned to camp following a week-long break after their successful round two campaign in Fiji. Players and team officials reconvened in Port Moresby on Wednesday this week, with training officially resuming at the PNG Football Stadium as preparations intensify for the finals round of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Oceania Qualifiers in New Zealand next month. The team will remain in camp in Port Moresby as they fine-tune their preparations ahead of departure on April 8. The Bilums are set to face American Samoa in the semi-final on April 12 at FMG Stadium Waikato, with a place in the final on April 15 at North Harbour Stadium at stake. Victory in the semi-final would see Papua New Guinea progress to the final, where they will meet the winner of Fiji and New Zealand in a decisive clash for qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. The winner of the Oceania qualifiers will secure direct entry to the global showpiece, while the runner-up will advance to the intercontinental playoff for another opportunity to reach the World Cup. Following a strong showing in round two, the Bilums return to camp with confidence and renewed focus as they continue their pursuit of a historic World Cup qualification. The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has called on all Papua New Guineans to continue supporting the PNG Bilums as they prepare to carry the nation’s hopes into the final stage of the qualifiers.

An adult man from Hela Province has voluntarily surrendered a high-powered firearm to police in Port Moresby. This surrender comes as Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi, intensifies calls for the public to support the nationwide illegal gun amnesty program. The individual, identified as Robert Tebua, is originally from Tari in Hela Province but currently resides in Hohola. He handed over the weapon at Boroko Police Station earlier this week following awareness campaigns conducted by Hohola-based officers. These local efforts align with directives issued by Police Minister Sir John Pundari in the lead-up to the national election. Tebua was accompanied by Sergeant Max Etebe to Boroko, where Chief Superintendent Turi formally received the firearm. Police confirmed the surrender was voluntary and part of a broader mission to remove illegal weapons from communities across Papua New Guinea. Turi welcomed the gesture, describing it as a positive response to both local policing and national messaging. The initiative, while initially launched in Enga Province, has since been expanded to cover the entire country. “The illegal gun amnesty is not only for the Highlands Provinces, but it is a nationwide program.” “I want those in the National Capital District who are in possession of illegal firearms to visit my office and surrender them to me so I can provide records to the management.” “I am happy with the individual who came forward, and I want more to come and surrender their illegal firearms.” “If you want to keep a firearm, follow the process, get a license, and keep your firearm.” According to police, this surrender highlights the growing impact of community policing. Turi acknowledged that awareness campaigns in settlements are being carried out under instructions from NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab, Central Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Joseph Salle, and his own office. These efforts are part of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s annual management plan and are aimed at strengthening cooperation between police and the public. Turi also commended Reservist Coordinator Chief Inspector Ruben Giusu and his team for their support. He revealed that ongoing operations across the city have already resulted in the confiscation of more than 300 knives and other offensive weapons. Alongside the gun amnesty, police are continuing stop-and-search operations targeting illegal activities and traffic-related offenses. Authorities have warned that enforcement will intensify, including the impounding of defective vehicles and the charging of offenders who fail to comply with directives. Police continue to urge members of the public to follow Robert Tebua’s example by surrendering illegal firearms voluntarily, emphasizing that the amnesty program remains a critical component of national safety and law enforcement.

The Divine Word University (DWU) Port Moresby Campus recently celebrated its 44th Graduation Ceremony, marking a significant milestone for 274 graduates from the Faculty of Business and Informatics. The event served as a vibrant gathering for graduates, families, academic staff, and dignitaries to honour academic success and reflect on DWU’s role in Papua New Guinea’s national development. Dr. Thomas Webster, Chairman of the Divine Word University Council, opened the proceedings by congratulating the cohort and acknowledging the vital support systems- families, sponsors, and partners- that made their success possible. He noted that these graduates are part of a larger group of nearly 1,569 students graduating across all DWU campuses during the 2025 academic year. Dr. Webster highlighted the historical significance of the event, noting that this year marks 30 years since DWU attained university status in 1996, though its educational roots in Madang date back to the 1960s. He reaffirmed the university's commitment to meeting workforce demands through flexible and full-time study options, grounded in Christian values as the nation celebrates 50 years of independence. The keynote address was delivered by the Chief Secretary to the Government, Mr. Ivan Pomaleu, who challenged the new alumni to lead with purpose. He urged the graduates to apply their skills to public service and private enterprise, stating that education is a critical foundation for national development. Mr. Pomaleu commended the university for developing ethical leaders and encouraged the class to uphold a strong sense of responsibility in their future roles. Meanwhile, DWU President Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs also addressed the assembly, reflecting on the harmony of faith and reason inherent in the Catholic intellectual tradition. He congratulated the class on overcoming various challenges and noted the university's expanding impact, mentioning that 793 students had graduated in Madang just the previous week. Fr. Gibbs emphasized the university's goal to form graduates in mind, heart, and spirit, prepared to serve others with competence and compassion. Representing the student body, Valedictorian Ms. Judith Wyborn shared a moving reflection on the shared journey and sacrifices of her peers. She spoke of the unique challenges faced by those in the Flexible Learning Centre (FLC), where students spent only two weeks together in class before returning to independent study in their home communities. Ms. Wyborn noted that their achievement was a true reflection of the discipline and perseverance required to balance family life and academic rigor. The ceremony also recognized six outstanding students who received awards for academic excellence across Master’s, Bachelor’s, and Diploma programs. The entire event was held under the theme “Serving the Nation with Quality Education Over Thirty Years,” a powerful reminder of DWU’s mission to provide ethical formation and academic excellence for the benefit of all communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

Police in Madang province are urging  travelers to be careful when commuting along the Madang–Usino Highway after a tragic incident occurred in the area. The message was delivered when officers responded to a tense situation at the Kawar Market.An adult male was killed recently in a violent incident involving a PMV driver. Police are still confirming the details.Following the incident, groups of villagers gathered in the area, making the highway unsafe. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim, said: “Members of the public must take extra care when using this road. Police are on the ground and ask for your patience.”He added that the highway, including the Bruce Jeffcott section, is risky, especially at night. People are advised to avoid unnecessary travel until the situation is under control.Police continue to monitor the area and work to restore normalcy.

The Government has set clear expectations for the new Chief Executive Officer of the National Information and Communications Technology Authority, calling for strong leadership and real improvements in ICT services across the country.Acting ICT Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. said the focus must now shift to better service quality and reliable networks as demand for digital services continues to grow. “The Government expects clear improvements in service quality for consumers and businesses. Persistent service disruptions, network unreliability and customer dissatisfaction must be addressed as a priority,” the Minister said. He said expanding access to ICT services, especially in rural and remote areas, is also a top priority. Reliable and affordable internet is important for economic growth, education, health services and everyday life. The Minister also called on the new CEO to look at alternative technologies to improve connectivity. He mentioned that the Starlink issue is still before the courts but encouraged all sides to work together to find a solution that supports the country’s connectivity goals. Concerns over rising consumer complaints were also raised. The Minister said stronger systems are needed to protect customers and improve how complaints are handled. He also urged closer work with service providers to make sure they meet their responsibilities. “The rising number of consumer complaints is a clear signal that stronger accountability and consumer focused outcomes are required across the sector,” he said. The Government is also pushing for action on online safety, including cyberbullying and other harmful content, especially those affecting young people. The Minister said NICTA must work with other agencies, companies and communities to make the internet safer. He warned that the Government will closely monitor performance and will take action against leaders who fail to deliver results. This includes improvements in connectivity, affordability, service quality and consumer protection. Despite the strong message, the Minister said the Government will support reforms that encourage competition, innovation and better services. He expressed confidence that the new CEO will deliver results that benefit all Papua New Guineans.

The government has confirmed Mr. Lume Polume as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) for the next four years. Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Peter Tsiamalili Jr., made the announcement, saying the appointment took effect on 28th January 2026. Mr. Polume has more than 20 years of experience and has worked in senior roles with the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) and Telikom PNG. His work covers economics, telecom policy, and leadership. At the same time, Mr. Charlie Gilichibi has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director on the NICTA Board for four years. He replaces Mr. John Cholai, who has completed his term. NICTA Board Chairman Brian Riches welcomed both appointments and said the board is ready to work with them. He said their leadership will help guide NICTA through an important period of reform and improve its work in the country’s digital space. Mr. Polume takes on the full CEO role after serving in an acting position for the past three months. During that time, he showed strong leadership and focused on reform. He replaces former CEO Kila Gulo Vui, who has completed his term. Mr. Polume holds a master's degree in economics from the University of Queensland under the Australia Awards program. He also graduated with First Class Honours in Economics from the University of Papua New Guinea. The government says these appointments show its commitment to strengthening leadership and improving services, as NICTA continues its role in delivering better and more reliable ICT services across Papua New Guinea.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), through the Department of Treasury and Finance, is making strong progress on its Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) rollout using the FreeBalance Accountability Suite.ABG Secretary for Treasury and Finance, Joshua Tauko, says since the project launched in August 2025, a number of key milestones have been completed, marking the steady progress of the Project. “We have completed the business process review, systems configuration for critical workflows, approval of a new Chart of Accounts for 2027 budgeting, installation of a private internet data link, and enhanced power and internet solutions,” he said. Under its capacity building component, an ongoing Training of Trainers programme is underway in Buka, focused on equipping dedicated ABG officers (‘super users) with hands-on expertise in system operations. “These trainers will cascade knowledge department-wide, ensuring local ownership, sustainability, and reduced reliance on external consultants,” Secretary Tauko said. "This reform delivers the digitalization and capacity-building priorities contained in the DOTF Corporate Plan 2023-2027," Secretary Tauko added. The IFMIS embeds good governance through standardized controls and compliance; enhances accountability via real-time monitoring and anomaly detection; and promotes transparency with timely, accessible financial data—aligning with the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan 2023-2027 and Long-Term Vision 2052 for a self-reliant, sovereign future. The programme ensures Bougainville Public Service staff own and sustain the system long-term, positioning us to manage scaled-up revenues from projects like Panguna, and sector expansions equitably and efficiently.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has welcomed Parliament’s overwhelming 80–1 passage of the Vagrancy Act, reinforcing government support for the law introduced by NCD Governor Powes Parkop to improve safety and discipline in Port Moresby and other urban centres.Marape described the legislation as a timely response to rising street violence, disorderly behaviour and public safety concerns. He stressed the law targets those involved in criminal activities, not law-abiding citizens.“This law is about restoring order and protecting our people,” he said, warning that individuals engaging in violence, carrying weapons or causing public disturbances will face stricter enforcement.The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of respecting Motu Koita landowners, fellow citizens and visitors, noting that Port Moresby belongs to all Papua New Guineans.To strengthen enforcement, the government will expand CCTV surveillance across key locations, including the airport and public spaces. Tougher penalties are also being considered, with offenders facing up to 10 years in prison or fines of up to K500,000 for carrying dangerous weapons.Marape said the broader goal is to restore Port Moresby to a clean, safe and orderly city, with zero tolerance for graffiti, littering, loitering and street disorder.He added that improving urban safety is critical as the country prepares for increased international exposure, including future NRL games and major events like APEC 2033.The Vagrancy Act, he said, could also serve as a model for other towns and cities across Papua New Guinea.Marape urged residents to support the law, emphasizing that maintaining order is a shared responsibility.“If you respect the law and live peacefully, you are safe. Together, we will restore pride in our city,” he said.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) will begin a major community engagement program with communities in Panguna this week.ABG Chief Secretary, Kearnneth Nanei, announced this government initiative, and explained that the program will begin with a frontline engagement team made up of government officers and veterans from Central Bougainville. This team will visit communities in Panguna, including mine-affected communities in the upper and lower tailings areas. This first phase of community visits will run from 16th March to 27th March. “The purpose of the frontline visit is to have open dialogues with communities and listen directly to their concerns about the Panguna EL01 redevelopment process. Community views, recurring concerns, and questions raised during these engagements will be documented and reported to the Panguna Technical Working Group under the Bougainville Administration,” he said. He explained that these issues will then be addressed during a larger, integrated ABG engagement with Panguna communities scheduled for the first week of April, which will be led by the ABG President and Minister responsible for Mining, together with senior government leaders and the Bougainville Administration. The ABG is encouraging landowners, community leaders, women, youth, and all affected communities to actively participate in these engagements. “This process is about listening to our people and ensuring that landowners and communities are part of the journey as we carefully move forward with Panguna,” Mr. Nanei said. He emphasized that the redevelopment of Panguna will proceed in accordance with ABG laws and regulations, and that the government remains fully committed to open dialogue, transparency, and continued consultation with landowners and key stakeholders. “Landowners will be partners with the proposal for Panguna Mine re-development,” he said. It is also important for the public to understand that for more than twenty years, discussions about Panguna largely occurred outside of the actual mining project life cycle. However, in 2024 the Toroama Government made the decision to issue Exploration Licence 01 (EL01) to Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL), placing Bougainville formally within the exploration phase of the mining life cycle. Mr. Nanei emphasized that all developments at this current stage are associated with exploration phase, and not mine development, adding that throughout all these stages, landowner groups in Panguna will be partners to the process as they happen. As this technical phase progresses, engagement with Panguna landowner stakeholders will continue and become more structured. Discussions on matters such as benefit sharing and other development issues will take place through formal Mining Forum processes as required under Bougainville law. In the meantime, Mr. Nanei said teams from the ABG Department of Mining, together with other key government departments, will be deployed to Arawa and Panguna to ensure a stronger and consistent government presence on the ground to manage Panguna-related issues. Communities are encouraged to attend the scheduled engagement meetings in their areas, raise their concerns, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue with government.

A decisive vote in Papua New Guinea’s Parliament has paved the way for tougher urban law enforcement, with lawmakers backing the revised 2025 Vagrancy Act 80–1 to improve safety and public order in Port Moresby and other major centres.The bill, introduced by National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, targets repeat offenders and individuals involved in both summary and serious criminal activities. Speaking in Parliament, Governor Parkop said habitual offenders can now be declared vagrants by the courts and issued exclusion orders, requiring them to return to their home areas for a period set by the judiciary. “If a person is repeatedly involved in serious crime, it is better they return home, reflect, and change before coming back,” he said. He added that individuals involved in financing tribal fights, inciting violence, and promoting ethnic tensions will also be dealt with under the law, describing it as an additional tool to address ongoing law and order challenges. Governor Parkop stressed that the law is not limited to the capital and can be applied in other major centres such as Lae, Kokopo, Kimbe, Mount Hagen and Madang. He clarified the legislation does not target homelessness or unemployment, unless individuals are repeatedly involved in criminal behaviour. “This law targets behaviour, not identity,” he said, emphasizing that it applies equally to all citizens regardless of status. Exclusion orders, he said, will vary depending on the severity of offences, ranging from short-term restrictions to longer-term bans. The Governor also highlighted ongoing safety initiatives in the capital, including a K20 million CCTV rollout, City Wardens, POM City Watch and the Neighbourhood Watch Program, noting the new law will complement these measures. “We must never compromise the security of our capital city,” he said. Governor Parkop added that the law promotes unity and peaceful coexistence, encouraging residents to respect one another and live together harmoniously. Meanwhile, Prime Minister James Marape commended the initiative and acknowledged concerns raised by residents, including the Motu Koitabuans, regarding law-and-order issues. The overarching goal, leaders say, is to build safer, more orderly urban centres for all Papua New Guineans and visitors alike.