The United Nations Secretary General, Mr. His Excellency António Guterres will be visiting Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the first week of September, coinciding with the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations’ lead up events. His visit was confirmed by Prime Minister James Marape, who had sent out an invitation earlier for the head of the UN to come over, where he will be in the country from Tuesday September 2nd to Friday, September 5th. The Prime Minister said this will be the first time a UN Secretary-General will spend four consecutive days in Papua New Guinea, underscoring the importance of the country’s 50- year journey of democracy, peace, and development. “Fifty years on, this is the first time ever that a United Nations Secretary-General has come to our country. And it is not just a fly-in, fly-out visit, but a four-day stay – something quite unprecedented for the Secretary-General in any single location globally,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This visit is a profound honour for our people. The Secretary-General’s presence demonstrates recognition of Papua New Guinea’s consistent respect for democracy, individual freedoms, human rights, and peacebuilding since Independence.” He highlighted that the visit will also acknowledge the Bougainville Peace Agreement of 30th August 2001, a landmark in peace and reconciliation, and PNG’s role in maintaining peace and unity within its diverse communities. During his stay, Secretary-General Guterres will: • Call on the Governor-General, the Head of State, and meet with Prime Minister Marape. • Address the National Parliament on Wednesday, 3 September. • Travel to Mt Hagen in the Highlands on Thursday to witness community peace initiatives and visit forest areas that showcase Papua New Guinea’s rich biodiversity. • Return to Port Moresby on Friday before departing that afternoon. Prime Minister Marape said the Secretary-General is expected to speak on Papua New Guinea’s global significance as one of the world’s great biodiversity hubs, and to recognize the nation’s leadership in environmental stewardship and sustainable development. “This September will be a momentous month. As we celebrate 50 years of Independence, we are humbled that global leaders, including the UN Secretary-General and His Royal Highness Prince Edward will join us. Their presence affirms that Papua New Guinea is not isolated, but a respected member of the international community,” said PM Marape. He urged Papua New Guineans to unite in dignity and respect as the country welcomes international guests during this historic golden jubilee.

The new National Banking Corporation (NBC) launched its latest product aimed at enabling ease in banking service for its customers. On Thursday 21st August at the NBC branch located at the Vision City mall in Port Moresby city, the bank launched its VISA Debit Card. NBC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Paul Thornton said the launch reflects their strong commitment to transforming banking in Papua New Guinea (PNG). “We aim to create a system that is not only user-friendly but also seamlessly connected, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of our community.” “As the people’s bank, our role is to make banking simpler, more relevant, and more accessible for Papua New Guineans and our residents.” “The introduction of our VISA Debit Card is another step in delivering on that promise. It puts the world within reach, enabling customers a secure smart and seamless payment option whether they’re here at home in PNG, abroad or for online purchases.” “It’s more than just convenience. It’s about access, opportunity, and giving our people the same level of financial freedom enjoyed anywhere in the world.” In the months ahead, NBC will continue to introduce solutions that empower individuals, strengthen businesses, and support communities, ensuring NBC remains the bank that understands and works for the people of PNG.

The Wapenamanda Airport in Enga province remains closed for an indefinite period after the National Airport Corporation (NAC) made the decision to shut down operations there due to the civil unrest that is extremely getting out of hand. According to the NAC, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued, confirming the closure of the airport, effective as of Thursday, 21st August 2025. This decision follows escalating civil unrest within the vicinity of the airport, involving the use of firearms and other offensive weapons. In light of these developments, the NAC had to take proactive steps to safeguard passengers, airport staff, and aircraft operations by temporarily closing the airport, until such time as the situation stabilizes and normalcy is restored. NAC regrets any inconvenience caused and says they are closely monitoring the situation. “We will continue to monitor the security situation closely and work with relevant authorities to ensure a safe operating environment before resuming services,” said the NAC. “The situation remains under close monitoring, and operations will resume once normalcy is restored and safety is assured.” Meanwhile, the MP for Wapenamanda Miki Kaeok has fallen victim as well to the civil disorder in his electorate when his house was burnt down allegedly by the Yakuman people.

The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Jeremiah Manele is in country on his two-day visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and following his arrival, paid a Courtesy Call on the Governor General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae at Government House this afternoon in Port Moresby city, where they held talks on the relations between the two countries. PNG and Solomon Islands established diplomatic relations in 1978 and are the closest Melanesian countries in the Pacific geographically, apart from Vanuatu and Fiji.  There is a significant number of PNG owned and operated businesses in Solomon Islands providing employment opportunities to some 6,000 locals. Prime Minister Manele thanked the Government and people of PNG for the ongoing support and assistance provided to Solomon Islands through education, business and investment in Solomon Islands as well as security and policing through police training and border surveillance and security. Prime Minister Manele was accompanied by Solomon Islands’ former Governor General Sir Frank Kabui and former Prime Minister Rick Houenipwela to the Government House to meet the Governor General. Prime Minister Manele and his delegation arrived in Port Moresby this afternoon. His visit is at the invitation of PNG Prime Minister James Marape to participate in the inaugural WanSol charity golf tournament set for tomorrow at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club.

Prime Minister James Marape has met with the newly elected Member for Usino Bundi and has assured him of the government’s support for infrastructure in his electorate in the Madang province. Addressing concerns raised by the new Member of Parliament (MP), Prime Minister Marape assured him that over the remaining 18 months before the 2027 National General Elections, the government will work closely with the new MP to address pressing issues, including improving road access within the electorate. The Prime Minister also emphasized the need to extend infrastructure improvements beyond major highways. "Just because the Ramu Highway runs through the electorate does not mean that the district roads leading to the people in the villages are in good condition," he said. "Other roads to remote pockets of the electorate like Bundi and Gamai areas must also be fixed." In addition, Prime Minister Marape is committed to addressing the benefits from the Ramu Nickel Mine. He plans to check existing agreements to see where the government can secure more benefits for the local people, while ensuring compliance to relevant laws of the country and the project agreement. He also mentioned that he would be looking into the Yandera project in Madang Province.

No more standing in long queues for long hours at the bank to make deposits, BSP customers can now make deposits with ease by just using an ATM. The first Deposit ATMs went live today, Wednesday 20th August 2025, at BSP’s Waigani Banking Centre in Port Moresby city, marking the pilot phase of this new service. BSP Group General Manager for Retail Banking, Ronesh Dayal, said the initiative is part of BSP’s major upgrade to its ATM network, bringing state-of-the-art banking technology to PNG and across the South Pacific. “We are rolling out 600 new ATMs across the BSP Group, reaffirming our commitment to making banking more accessible. This upgrade will introduce deposit-enabled ATMs in many of our markets, saving our customers time and reducing queues at our branches,” Mr. Dayal said. The rollout follows BSP’s partnership with NCR Atleos Corporation, a global leader in self-service financial solutions, signed in January this year. BSP Retail Head of Payments, William Koregai, said pilot sites in NCD include Waigani Banking Centre and Waterfront, with other branches to follow soon. Deposit ATMs will be rollout across PNG in coming months and later to the Pacific Markets – Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Cook Islands.

The newly elected Member for Usino- Bundi district in Madang province, Vincent Ambane Kumura, has joined the Government ranks and Prime Minister James Marape is quite happy about it, saying that he represents a new generation of leaders. During a meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister in Waigani, Port Moresby, Prime Minister Marape congratulated Mr. Kumura and praised his commitment to Public Service. He described him as one of those leaders who would take proactive steps to serve their communities without waiting for government funding, a type of leader that is desirable in the country. "These are the type of leaders that Papua New Guinea needs," Prime Minister Marape said. "They use their own resources to help their people until government support becomes available." Marape found a personal connection in Kumura's path to politics, drawing a comparison to his own. He pointed out that both him and the new Member of Parliament (MP) chose to work directly with their communities on the ground before seeking a place in government. Meantime, when addressing concerns raised by the new MP, PM Marape gave his assurance of government support in Kumura’s electorate, by guaranteeing that government will work closely with the new MP to address pressing issues, including improving road access within the district before the 2027 National General Election. MP Kumura came into office following the recently by election for the Usino Bundi seat. The seat became vacant following the passing of the former Member, late Jimmy Uguro in February 2024.

Today saw the British Government, presented the Regimental Colours of both the First and Second Royal Pacific Islands Regiments (PIR) to the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) in preparation for the Trooping of Colours come September, a day before the 50th Independence Anniversary. Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko was there to receive the Regimental Colours from the British High Commissioner to PNG H.E Anne Macro at the Central Government Office building at Waigani, Port Moresby city. Minister Tkatchenko said these Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) Regimental Colours embody the history, spirit, and tradition of the units to which they belong. They are highly valued, carefully guarded, and treated with the greatest respect. “This presentation is especially meaningful as it comes at a time when Papua New Guinea is preparing to mark 50 years of Independence,” said the minister. “We are deeply honoured that His Royal Highness, Prince Edward, representing His Majesty King Charles III, will officially present these Regimental Colours during his Visit in September this year. That presentation will symbolize not only the loyalty and service of our military but also the enduring friendship and partnership between the government of Papua New Guinea and the government of the United Kingdom.” These Regimental Colours will be presented on the 15th of September at the Murray Barracks in Port Moresby city. The Regimental Colours also include the new King's Colours which replaces that of the Queen's Regimental Colours. High Commissioner Macro also highlighted the significance of the Regimental Colours. “I am very pleased to be able to handover to the Papua New Guinea Government on behalf of the British Government and the people of the United Kingdom this 50th Anniversary gift of new Colours of the First and Second Regiments,” said the British High Commissioner. "Regimental Colours are not just flags, they’re important symbols that represent spirit, history and honour of a military unit." "There origins were traced back to the days when flags were used in the battle fields to help soldiers identify their own units amongst the chaos of combat. Over time, they evolved into ceremonial emblems of pride and tradition." "Each colour bares the insignia, the battle honours and regimental symbols unique to that unit. They tell the story of the regiment’s past, its founding, its campaigns, and its sacrifices." “They are a visible reminder of a soldier’s oath to serve their King, their country and their comrades,” said High Commissioner Macro. For the Pacific Islands Regiment, these honours include South- West Pacific 1942–45, Kokoda Trail, Finschhafen, Sio- Sepik and others. These sideshows, consecrated in the Colours, serve as a constant reminder to every member of the PNG Defense Force of their duty to Sovereign, Country, and People.

The Executive Management of Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has included the expert services of Mr. Gary Constantine as the new Executive General Manager (GM), Commercial to boost their operations. KPHL Managing Director Mr. Wapu Sonk, in welcoming Mr. Constantine to the company management team, said, “We are very pleased that Gary is joining our executive leadership team, his international experience will provide a valuable perspective on some of the domestic value-adding and nation building projects that we are already executing and planning for the future.” Mr. Constantine is an industry professional with decades of experience in many countries in the Asia Pacific region including the Netherlands, Hong Kong, Pakistan, Australia and Canada – where he was employed by Shell Canada Limited for fifteen (15) years in various roles including power, gas and LNG marketing related posts. Apart from his primary Bachelor qualification, Mr. Gary has a post graduate diploma and an MBA. Most recently he was Vice President, Global LNG with Vopak LNG in Singapore where he was also involved in green-field and brownfield LNG developments in the Asia Pacific. In Australia, Gary has been involved in Shell’s Floating LNG proposal, associated with the Prelude project.

The AFL Under- 17 Pacific Nations Challenge is coming up in September from the 12th to the 14th in Cairns, Australia and the youngsters from Papua New Guinea (PNG) are also participating, an opportunity of a lifetime for upcoming players, coaches and umpires in the AFL PNG Academy. AFL PNG Development Chairman Mr. Ekonia Peni said he is proud to see more opportunities for young Papua New Guineans to showcase their talent in Australia. “I have no doubt this opportunity will be fulfilling both on and off the footy field during such a special time for our country. We have genuine talent in PNG, and through the work of our AFL PNG Academy programs and player pathways nationally, we want to continue providing opportunities for these coaches, umpires and players to showcase their ability and commitment to the game.” he said. “Over the three days in Cairns, these young players and officials will represent our country with pride and passion, leading the way while creating lasting friendships, connecting with our Pacific brothers and Sisters and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family.” “I would like to thank the Australian Government, through the PacificAus Sports Program, for supporting these aspiring players, coaches and umpires.” Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, Ewen McDonald said the pacific nations share a love of sport and it’s great to see Australian rules football at the heart of Pacific Nations Challenge in Cairns with participants from PNG, Nauru, Fiji, Tonga and Australian First Nations teams. “It is a testament to the continuing close connections we all share across the Blue Pacific,” he said. The AFL PNG Academy teams, Binatangs (male) and Under 17 Kurakums (female), will take on the best players from Nauru, Fiji, Tonga, Cairns and the Cape York and Torres Strait Crusaders in both male and female competitions. Matches will be played at a variety of venues across Cairns, including Cazalys Stadium, Buchan Street Oval and Watsons Oval. The final fixture will be released closer to the event in September. Meanwhile, this tournament also comes at a fitting time ahead of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16th. The PNG participation was made possible with the support of the Australian Government through the PacificAus Sports, celebrating the 50 years of enduring relations as well between the two countries since 1975.

The PNG Open 2025 Golf tournament is currently on with an array of contingent of professional golfers here in Port Moresby city for the challenge. The PNG Open 2025 teed off yesterday, Thursday 14th August at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club where Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the largest-ever contingent of professional golfers to compete in Papua New Guinea, declaring the 2025 PNG Open a milestone moment for both the sport and the country’s international profile. Prime Minister Marape said the four-day event — part of the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia— brought together over 120 professional golfers from across four continents, surpassing previous records and cementing PNG’s status as a hub for major international sporting events. “For the first time, we have gone past 100 professional golfers competing in our country — 120 in total — including seven female professionals who will join our top women golfers in a separate event this weekend,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Sport sells our country’s image to the world, and this tournament shows that PNG can successfully host athletes from all corners of the globe.” The field includes competitors from the United States, Spain, Korea, Japan, Fiji, the Philippines, New Zealand, Australia, and beyond, marking a truly global contest. Spain is represented for the first time, while the United States has sent more than 10 players from various states. The Prime Minister highlighted that the event coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary, making it a showcase not only for golf but also for the country’s culture, hospitality, and potential as a safe and attractive destination. “This is a step in the right direction. We want the world to know that PNG can embrace and host international sport at the highest level,” he said. Prime Minister Marape, Patron of the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club, extended his gratitude to the PNG Golf Association and the PGA Tour of Australasia for their long-standing partnership, and especially to naming rights sponsor Kumul Mineral Holdings Limited (KMHL). PNG Golf Association President, Ian Hodge, said the tournament’s growth was a testament to years of planning and dedication. He emphasized that the addition of the women’s competition — featuring seven professionals from Australia and eight of PNG’s best female golfers — was a deliberate move to promote gender equality and inclusion in the sport, while reinforcing PNG’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for international visitors. Tournament Director Graeme Scott of the PGA Tour of Australasia praised the warm reception given to players and noted the high caliber of competition this year. “This is my fifth visit to PNG for the Open, and the field just keeps getting stronger,” he said. “Players who may never have heard of PNG are now promoting it to the world through their own channels. The inclusion of the women’s event also aligns perfectly with our push to grow women’s golf in our region.” The 2025 PNG Open will run until Sunday 17th August.

The new National Monitoring and Coordination Authority (NMCA) Policy framework which was launched last night in Port Moresby city, aims to ensure efficiency in the implementation of services in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The NMCA Policy framework provides the strategic and administrative foundation for operationalize a central coordination mechanism to drive whole of government performance, accountability, and results-based implementation across all sectors and levels of government. Anchored in the Government’s commitment to address weak implementation, disjointed oversight, and poor service delivery- as highlighted in successive reviews and reinforced in the 40- Year Review by the National Research Institute- this framework represents a decisive shift from policy rhetoric to institutional action. Prime Minister (PM) James Marape, who officially launched the NMCA at the APEC Haus, described it as a vital reform to ensure that every Kina allocated through the National Budget delivers tangible results for Papua New Guineans across both urban centres and rural communities. He emphasized that billions of Kina have flowed through successive Governments since Independence – and especially since 2019 – but without the strong and consistent monitoring needed to guarantee that these funds meet their intended purpose. “From 2019 to 2024 alone, our Government has overseen K131 billion in expenditure. Combined with the previous six years, that’s over K214 billion passing through our National Treasury in just 12 years,” Prime Minister Marape said. “The question we must all ask ourselves is: what have we done with this money? Have we translated it into real, tangible improvements for our people?” The NMCA has been established to fill this long-standing gap – to ensure funds appropriated in the National Budget are implemented according to approved plans, and to track results right down to the project level. Governor for Oro and Chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Public Sector Reform and Service Delivery, Gerry Juffa, who was instrumental in the NMCA establishment, echoed the PM, stating that since Independence there have been decline of service delivery, exasperated by the 1995 reforms. “So, I made the effort to find a part of the solution by asking the Prime Minister to set up a Parliamentary Committee to join the voices of many demanding accountabilities for non-implementation of Government decisions and organizational behavior,” the Chairman said. He congratulated the Prime Minister on the creation of the NMCA which carried the similar objectives of his committee. He also urged the Prime Minister to ensure that the NMCA had the benefit of a line of sight to his Parliamentary Committee so that it was not only beholden to the Executive arm of Government. Meanwhile, the NMCA will coordinate with key oversight bodies and development partners to monitor the roll-out of Government funds to provinces, districts, and agencies in real time, using modern technology including ICT systems and Artificial Intelligence. Independent audit, engineering, and accounting firms will be engaged to verify progress on the ground, rather than Government agencies marking their own work. The Prime Minister said the NMCA’s board – comprising respected institutions such as the National Research Institute (NRI), Transparency International, and the National Economic and Fiscal Commission – will ensure a balanced, independent, and credible oversight of Government spending.