Prime Minister James Marape has announced a new land and housing initiative aimed at creating up to 10,000 allotments in Port Moresby. The plan is part of a wider national effort to turn informal settlements into properly planned suburbs and give Papua New Guineans better access to land and home ownership.Mr. Marape said the initiative followed a high-level meeting on Friday with NCD Governor Powes Parkop, City Hall officials, and representatives from the Department of Lands, Department of National Planning and the National Housing Corporation. The meeting focused on addressing the growing need for proper urban planning and affordable housing in the capital.The Prime Minister said many people who have lived and worked in Port Moresby for years still do not have secure land or housing.“Too many of our people who have worked and lived in Port Moresby for years, including second and third generation residents, still do not have proper access to land or secure housing,” Mr. Marape said.“This must change. Papua New Guineans cannot be displaced in their own city.”Mr. Marape said the National Government has directed the NCD administration to prepare a clear master plan for the city, with the goal of developing up to 10,000 allotments through a fair and coordinated land allocation process.He said the Department of Lands has been instructed not to issue any more vacant State land until a clear programme is in place to ensure land is made available for working residents in the city.The Prime Minister also welcomed a proposal by developer Parkside to build 2,000 Australian-standard homes at Gerehu Stage 7, saying the private sector would play an important role in developing properly planned suburbs.Mr. Marape said the Government is also working with local banks and lenders to design a long-term housing finance scheme to make home ownership more affordable. The plan includes intergenerational housing loans of up to 49 years, allowing families to pass homes on to future generations.He urged residents not to engage in illegal squatting or informal land deals and warned against building on untitled land.Mr. Marape said people who have already been evicted or displaced from settlements will be the first to benefit from the programme. A new Urbanization Office, reporting directly to the Prime Minister, will coordinate relocation efforts with City Hall and other agencies.The Prime Minister said the housing programme will begin in Port Moresby but is expected to expand to other parts of the country as part of the Government’s broader national development plans.

A new training program under the Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ) called the Hela Youth Diversion Program is assisting youths affected by tribal fighting to build practical skills and small business opportunities.The new training builds on earlier mental health and behaviour change programs for conflict-affected youths in Hela, which saw the need to also address unemployment and lack of income to bring about change. The program shows how law and justice support can help create safer communities by investing in young people. By combining mental health support with practical skills, it gives youths opportunities and equips them with the tools needed to move away from violence and contribute positively to society. Up to six small business and skills training courses are planned over the next six months, targeting youths engaged in Australian Government-funded mental health programs. The courses focus on basic business skills, income generation, and pathways into the formal economy, and are designed for participants with low levels of formal education who have been affected by conflict. One participant, David Hilai, credits the program with transforming his life. Previously involved in tribal fighting and drug use, Hilai has committed to giving up firearms and pursuing a more constructive path. “I attended this training to make money. Mental health has played a big part in helping me see money differently.” Through the program, he has learned budgeting and planning skills that he now hopes to use to build a better future for his family. The program forms part of broader peacebuilding and community stability efforts in Hela under the PNG–Australia Partnership. It reflects a shared commitment by PNG and Australia to support peace, resilience and opportunity for young people across the country, recognizing that long-term peace depends on giving young people real alternatives to conflict and a safer, more prosperous future.

Since assuming office as the Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for NCD/Central, Benjamin Turi has remained steadfast in his commitment to community policing.Rather than relying solely on traditional enforcement, ACP Turi has prioritized “walking the talk” by actively involving local citizens in law-and-order advocacy. His strategic initiative to establish community engagement groups- where residents work alongside police within their own suburbs and villages- has already yielded measurable positive results across the command. This collaborative concept has proven particularly effective in both the city and Central Province. ACP Turi has consistently dedicated time to visiting local station commanders and community leaders to refine the delivery of policing services. On Friday, March 13, 2026, this outreach continued as Mr. Turi and Central Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector Joseph Salle travelled to the Berina Police Station. During the visit, they conducted thorough inspections of the station and housing facilities to assess how to best increase manpower in response to the region's rapid growth, spurred by major developments like the Papua LNG project. During an official parade, Commander Turi, accompanied by PPC Salle and Berina Station Commander Sergeant Willie Hoiba, addressed the rank and file. The officers were briefed on the strategic vision of Police Minister Sir John Pundari for the year ahead. In addition to long-term goals, Mr. Turi announced a major upcoming traffic operation. He instructed officers to begin proactive communication with drivers and vehicle owners, ensuring the public is well-warned before police begin making arrests for traffic violations once the operation officially commences. The delegation later moved to Babangongo Village in the Mekeo area of Kairuku District. There, they met with the Mekeo Local Level Government (LLG) President to finalize plans for a new police post along the highway. This strategic outpost is designed to provide a permanent presence for officers to monitor the area more effectively. Joining the visit was Chief Inspector Ruben Giusu, who oversees the command’s reservist program. Chief Inspector Giusu delivered a targeted awareness presentation to local youths interested in law enforcement, providing them with clear guidance on how to apply for the reservist program in writing. In a final address to the villagers, Commander Turi reinforced the philosophy that law and order is a shared responsibility. He emphasized that when local residents join the police force, they bring a unique level of accountability and influence to their communities. He noted that village youth are far more likely to respect and listen to their own peers when they return as trained officers to lead policing efforts and awareness campaigns, ultimately creating a more sustainable culture of safety.

Community connections came to the fore at last week’s celebration of the graduation of 120 grade 9 to 12 students at Kokoda College, a growing education hub in Oro Province operated by development organization KTF (Kokoda Track Foundation).Through Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE), Kokoda College supports students from the greater Kokoda catchment who have been unable to complete mainstream schooling to finish their secondary education, or for students to upgrade their marks and pursue employment opportunities through this NDoE-endorsed pathway. National FODE Principal Mr. Anthony Rayappan, who travelled to Kokoda for the graduation, emphasized in his address that Flexible Open Distance Education is not simply an alternative pathway, but a legitimate and rapidly growing education pathway helping students complete their secondary education. Mr. Rayappan thanked KTF for its strong partnership and for delivering a program that is helping increasing numbers of student's access FODE and continue their education. For students living in remote parts of Oro Province, FODE is critical in creating opportunities to pursue tertiary education in fields such as teaching and health- professions essential to strengthening local communities. Gary Juffa MP, Governor of Oro Province and long-term advocate of education, shared with the gathering: “You invest in human resources, and they will come back and help you. We do not have much money as a province.” “We just have ourselves, but what little we have we are going to do the best we can. Then, we will see the transformations that come along.” “Sanap Strong, be confident, get out there, there are many opportunities for you to seize.” Joining Governor Juffa and Mr. Rayappan, were a range of partners including Mr. Stanley Newena from the Kokoda Initiative, Dr. Karen Nyangara from the Commonwealth of Learning, and KTF’s CEO Dr. Genevieve Nelson. Prepared with great pride by the school community, the college campus was festooned with beautiful natural decorations to mark the special occasion. This sense of pride filled the grounds as families gathered to recognize the achievements of students from across the province. The Awala community opened the celebration with traditional dance, led in part by Sandy, who graduated from Grade 10 and received the Female Dux award. Another graduate, Emmanuel, a Head Teacher upgrading his qualifications through a partnership with Oro Disabled Foundation, was honored by his students with an abundant offering of fruit and vegetables to thank the College for its support. Newly elected officials from Koukou village also attended, expressing their commitment to encouraging disengaged youth to take advantage of these local education opportunities. “The graduation is a powerful reminder that when education opportunities reach remote communities, extraordinary things happen,” said Dr. Genevieve Nelson, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kokoda Track Foundation. “These students have shown determination and resilience to complete their studies, and many will go on to become teachers, health workers and leaders who will strengthen their communities for years to come.” KTF’s work in the region is inspired by the enduring bond forged between Papua New Guinea and Australia during the Kokoda Campaign of World War II. Today, that spirit of partnership continues through development initiatives that expand access to education, health, and gender equality. Kokoda College is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program and the Kokoda Initiative, alongside generous public and philanthropic supporters and the Papua New Guinea Government.

The cruise ship MS Azamara Onward made a stopover in Madang Province yesterday, bringing 655 passengers to experience the province’s rich culture, scenic beauty and unique island lifestyle.The visit is part of the vessel’s Pacific cruise itinerary and marks another important tourism activity for the province this year.Out of the total passengers on board, 201 visitors took part in organized cultural tours arranged for guests who wanted to experience village life and traditional activities in Madang.The tours were coordinated by Melanesian Tourist Services and South Sea Horizons, two tourism operators that regularly work with visiting cruise ships.Visitors were grouped and transported to several villages around Madang where they were welcomed by local communities and introduced to traditional customs and daily life.Tour groups visited Riwo Village, Siar Village, Mamada Village and Bilbil Village.In Bilbil village, visitors were able to witness the traditional pottery making process that the community is widely known for, while others visited the Bilbil Butterfly Farm where different species of butterflies are raised and preserved.Tourists also enjoyed cultural sing-sing performances, traditional dancing and demonstrations of local crafts, while learning about the customs, traditions and lifestyle of the people in the surrounding villages.Many visitors were seen interacting with villagers, taking photos and purchasing locally made crafts and souvenirs as part of their cultural experience.Caretaker Director for Madang Tourism and Culture Joanne Arek said the arrival of cruise ships continues to provide opportunities for local communities to showcase their culture while benefiting from tourism.“Cruise ship visits like this provide an important opportunity for our local communities to present their culture and traditions to visitors from around the world,” Ms Arek said.She said tourism activities linked to cruise ship visits can help generate income for villagers who participate in cultural performances, handicraft sales and other tourism services.“Our people are proud to share their traditions and way of life with visitors, and these tours allow tourists to experience the true culture of Madang,” she said.Ms. Arek said the province remains one of the most attractive destinations in Papua New Guinea because of its natural beauty and welcoming communities.“Madang is known for its beautiful islands, clear waters and rich culture, and we are always pleased to welcome visitors who want to experience what our province has to offer,” she said.She added that while the visit of the Azamara Onward has been confirmed, details of other cruise ships expected to visit the province this year are yet to be finalized.“We are still waiting for confirmation regarding other cruise ships that may visit Madang this year, but we remain hopeful that more vessels will include Madang in their travel itineraries,” Ms. Arek said.Before arriving in Madang, the cruise ship’s first port of call was Alotau, and after its stop in Madang the vessel will continue its journey to Koror.The continued arrival of cruise ships to Madang highlights the province’s growing importance as a tourism destination in the Pacific and provides valuable opportunities for local communities to participate in and benefit from the tourism industry.

The East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENB PHA) remains committed to strengthening its medical supply chain throughout this year, focusing specifically on the critical functions of procurement, storage, and distribution.This ongoing initiative aims to guarantee that safe, high-quality medicines remain affordable and consistently available to the public. According to the 2025 annual management review presented by Provincial Pharmacist Leo Kume, the current availability of essential and commonly used drugs stands at 60 percent across both the area medical store and local health facilities. To combat existing gaps, the PHA is prepared to intervene financially despite procurement being a centralized responsibility. “Although the procurement of drugs is a national function, the PHA will continue to make adequate funding available to help out with the current situation of shortages of medical supplies.” The review further highlighted a significant shortage of pharmacy assistants and technicians within the province. To address this, the PHA plans to implement a strategic recruitment drive to ensure that all Level 3 to Level 5 facilities are properly staffed with qualified personnel. “PHA will in due course recruit trained pharmacy assistants and technicians to be in all facilities from Level 3 to 5. These personnel will be certified in Basic Pharmacy Management.” Beyond staffing and supply levels, the authority is turning its attention toward the physical infrastructure of the supply chain. While the upgrade of drug storage compartments in all health facilities is a priority, the PHA will first undertake a comprehensive survey and scope of work to ensure the actual renovations are planned and executed effectively.

The prime minister has said that the great performance by the country’s two superannuation funds in the 2025 financial year was a direct reflection of good economic growth the country has been experiencing over the couple of years. Prime Minister James Marape said the strong 2025 financial performance of Nambawan Super and NASFUND—is a positive indication that the Government’s economic strategy is strengthening the national economy. The solid results delivered by the two funds, which together manage more than K22 billion in members’ retirement savings, demonstrate growing confidence in Papua New Guinea’s economy and financial institutions. In its 2025 financial results, Nambawan Super announced that its net asset value had reached K13 billion, while declaring an interest crediting rate of 12 percent, up from 10.5 percent in 2024. The fund’s membership also grew to more than 245,000 members, reflecting continued expansion in the formal workforce. Meanwhile, NASFUND reported a profit after tax of K1.086 billion and net asset value of K9.45 billion in 2025, while declaring a 13 percent interest crediting rate for its 744,213 members. Prime Minister Marape said the strong returns delivered by both superannuation funds in 2025 were encouraging for Papua New Guinea’s workers and the broader economy. “The performance of our two major super funds in 2025 is a strong vote of confidence in our economy,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Nambawan Super and NASFUND delivering strong returns for their members affirms the work our government has been doing to stabilize and grow the economy.” The Prime Minister said the results also reflect the Government’s focus on building a more sustainable and diversified economy. “Our focus on agriculture and other productive sectors is aimed at ensuring that our economy is not overly dependent on mining and petroleum,” he said. “We are now beginning to see the first buds of green growth emerging as a result of these policy directions.” He stressed that the strong performance of the superannuation sector, along with improved returns from banks, financial institutions and other major sectors of the economy, demonstrates that the Government’s economic strategy is producing results. 

The excellent performance to the country’s two superannuation funds in the 2025 financial year has received some great commendations.Managing Director of the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), Mr. Clarence Hoot, has commended both the Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) and Nasfund on their continued outstanding performances following their recent announcements of annual interests credited to their members’ accounts. Earlier this week NSL credited 12% interest to their members’ accounts while Nasfund paid 13% to their members. In congratulating the Super Funds for declaring profits after their 2025 audited results, Mr. Hoot said that the funds were a secured investment vehicle supported by experienced managers in growing the members’ contributions for their future retirement benefits. “The continued increase in the interest rate by the super funds over the years should give confidence to its members and the general public as a whole. They are an avenue for the public to invest their money instead of investing in money schemes,” he said. The public is encouraged to explore opportunities and consider super funds as a trusted avenue to secure investment for their future sustainability. In a statement by Nasfund Chief Executive Officer Mr. Rajeev Sharma said that for the first time in the history of Nasfund that the profit after tax had surpassed one billion Kina which he attributed to the strength of their investment strategy and disciplined financial management. Similarly, NSL had announced strong 2025 financial results as the Fund assets reached K13 billion which they said reflected continued growth despite a challenging global and domestic economic environment. Mr. Hoot said such performances should give confidence to our local SMEs and the public to invest in the Funds and allow the Funds to grow their investments. The Investment Promotion Authority will also explore ways of working with the super funds on investment opportunities within PNG and abroad. 

The Board of Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) recently toured the Cancer Service Unit at ANGAU Memorial Hospital, where the company has invested over K20 million to improve cancer treatment.Between 2020 and 2025, under a tripartite agreement with the Morobe Provincial Health Authority and ANGAU, KPHL helped re-establish the hospital’s radiotherapy and brachytherapy units. Funding supported the hiring of a resident oncologist, training of radiotherapists, and procurement of equipment, including a Cobalt-60 source that enabled the resumption of radiotherapy in Papua New Guinea.Kumul Petroleum Chairman Mr. Gerea Aopi said the visit gave the Board a first-hand view of how improved medical equipment benefits patients. “Cancer remains a major health challenge in PNG. Supporting initiatives that improve access to diagnosis and treatment reflects our role as a national company,” he said.The visit, facilitated by ANGAU Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Kipas Binga, coincided with KPHL’s annual charity golf event in Lae on 6th March, which raised K150,000 for essential chemotherapy medications for patients at the Cancer Service Unit.

The World Kyokushin Kaikan Oceania & PNG recently announced that The Oceania Knockdown Tournament originally scheduled for June 27th, 2026, has been postponed to 14 November 2026 due to unanticipated local and international developments.This announcement posted via social media, explained that due to political developments within the country, combined with global travel and logistics interruptions arising from tensions in the Middle East, the event was rescheduled towards the end of the year, as current conditions would affect the safety and high-quality delivery of this international competition. Senpai Bernard Soari, Branch Chief – Papua New Guinea, explained that this decision was made after careful consideration across regional leadership. “As an organization committed to excellence, safety, and the spirit of Kyokushin, we believe it is in the best interest of all participants and supporters to reschedule the tournament to a more stable and predictable period.” “This ensures that every athlete and delegation can travel, prepare, and compete under the best possible circumstances.” WWK Oceania & PNG sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the postponement to clubs, competitors and families who had already begun planning for the event and expressed appreciation for the understanding, patience and continued support from all stakeholders as efforts continue to maintain the high standards expected of an Oceania-level championship. Further updates on registration, logistics and other event arrangements will be communicated in the coming weeks.

The prime minister is looking to make the Papua New Guinea (PNG) culture of polygamy illegal with potential jail time in an effort to protect the women folk in the country.Prime Minister (PM) James Marape announced his intention to pursue Legislation that will outlaw Polygamy in Papua New Guinea in the future, describing the move as part of a broader national effort to protect Women, strengthen families, and restore respect for Mothers and Daughters across the country.Marape emphasized that while Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural traditions must be respected, certain practices that undermine the dignity and security of Women must be addressed through National Reform. “Some good aspects of our culture must be preserved, but other practices that harm our families must be left behind,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Polygamy is one such issue that has contributed to many broken homes, children being left without proper support, and Women being treated unfairly.” PM Marape said he intends to present a Policy Paper to the National Executive Council (NEC) to begin the process of introducing Legislation that would outlaw Polygamy in the future, with the proposed Law expected to take effect from around 2030 onward. Under the proposed approach, existing arrangements would not be automatically invalidated, but the Law would prohibit new polygamous arrangements in the future. “This is a Reform that we must consider carefully, but it is necessary if we are to protect the mothers and daughters of our country,” he said. “The Law we propose will ensure that going forward, Polygamy will no longer be practiced in our country.” The Prime Minister said the proposal reflects the Government’s commitment to addressing deeper social causes of Gender-Based Violence and inequality. He emphasized that Women must no longer be viewed as property or commodities within society. Prime Minister Marape noted that the proposed Law would also reinforce protections for Women within families, particularly in ensuring that Wives and Children are not abandoned or left without proper support. 

Market Force a community empowerment initiative founded by Sylvia Pascoe under Pom City Markets and Pascoe Events & Marketing, earlier this month, donated cleaning supplies valued at K1,240.09 to the Paule Erima Youth group in the Northeast electorate aiming to support their youth led cleanup.This clean-up will not only benefit the environment but also encourage young people to take pride in their community. David Balbe, a resident of Paule Erima for over 20 years, received the supplies on behalf of the youths. After seeing the Market Force initiative on Facebook, he reached out with a plan to organize a youth clean-up program in Paule Erima. Market Force partnered with Mr. Balbe to gather the materials needed to launch the program. Sylvia Pascoe said the initiative echoes a leadership philosophy focused on empowering communities to lead their own solutions. “Across Port Moresby there are already incredible people in every neighbourhood trying to improve their communities.” “I like to recognize the leaders already stepping up and give them the support and visibility they deserve, we are a better community when we are better neighbours, helping each other where we can.” Pascoe said that Market Force was set up to spot, support, and celebrate local community champions, offering small yet impactful assistance to help their initiatives thrive. Market Force Project Coordinator Yvonne Morgan, who collaborates with communities through Pom City Markets, added that the program keeps discovering inspiring grassroots leaders.  “We see people like Mr. Balbe all over the city, individuals who care deeply about their neighbourhoods and want to make things better.” “Market Force exists to support those leaders and give them the tools to bring their communities together.” Market Force is part of the wider Pom City Markets network, which brings together SMEs, youth groups, and community leaders through regular market events across Port Moresby. Anyone interested in joining the initiative can connect with Yvonne Morgan and the Market Force team at upcoming Pom City Markets, held monthly at the Harbourside Night Market, New Chinatown Market, and the National Museum & Art Gallery. Community members are encouraged to share their own local projects and ideas with the team. For the latest updates on market dates and locations, follow the Pom City Markets Facebook page. Guided by the motto, “A Force of Good in Every Neighbourhood,” Market Force also welcomes supporters, donors, and sponsors who want to work through the network, because together, the impact is greater.