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Students and teachers at Sikalu Primary School in Kerema previously faced security concerns due to trespassing. That challenge has now been addressed with the installation of perimeter fencing and solar-powered lighting, creating a safer and more secure learning environment. The project was a joint effort by BSP’s Gordons Commercial Centre and Waigani Drive branches and also included donations of educational and sports supplies. It was implemented by Jadrem Builders & Supplies and completed in phases over four weeks. Despite logistical challenges posed by the school’s location near mangroves and waterways, mitigation strategies ensured timely delivery. The official handover ceremony was attended by more than 100 students, teachers, parents, and representatives from the Gulf Provincial Administration and the Department of Education. The event also marked the opening of a new three-in-one classroom. In his remarks, the school chairman, Jonathan Marko, expressed deep appreciation for BSP’s commitment to community development. “This is the first time a corporate company has supported a school in the provincial capital. BSP’s presence and contribution have given our community a renewed sense of respect and hope,” he said. Staff from both branches travelled to Kerema to participate in the handover, engaging directly with students and witnessing the school’s daily challenges. Their involvement was warmly received and highlighted BSP’s dedication to building stronger, safer communities. “Our engagement with the students and teachers reflects our commitment to community development. The solar lighting and fencing installations are part of our ongoing efforts to support safe and inclusive learning spaces,” said Elape Epe, Deputy Branch Manager at Gordons Commercial Centre. “This initiative will also benefit the wider community, and we trust that these facilities will be well maintained and serve residents for many years to come,” she added. Through its ongoing support in education and community development, BSP continues to nurture brighter futures and empower local growth.

Listed Australian miner Augustus Minerals Ltd has moved to expand its exploration footprint in Papua New Guinea with a new application for an exploration licence in the Vanapa River region, about 35 kilometres north of Port Moresby. The application, ELA2955, covers 1,906 square kilometres in the highly prospective New Guinea Metallogenic Belt, one of the world’s most significant corridors for gold and copper deposits. The company lodged the application following a recent site visit by Augustus Minerals and ACM PNG personnel, who travelled with local landowners to review artisanal alluvial gold workings along the Vanapa River and surrounding tributaries. Artisanal miners continue to recover small amounts of alluvial gold in the region, indicating ongoing mineralisation even though the primary source has yet to be identified. The New Guinea Metallogenic Belt is known for its large-scale mineral deposits, including Frieda River, Porgera, Kainantu, Hidden Valley and Wafi Golpu. The belt runs for more than 2,300 kilometres along the central mountain spine of New Guinea and its northern foothills. Augustus’ application area is located about 40 kilometres southeast along strike from the Tolokuma gold mine, which has historically produced 1.5 million ounces of gold at high grades, along with 4.3 million ounces of silver. James Warren, Augustus Minerals’ chief executive officer, said the Vanapa River application marks a significant opportunity for the company. “We are very pleased to have been invited into the Hira Koiari District by the local landowners and presents Augustus with a rare and unique opportunity to conduct true frontier exploration in an area synonymous with Giant orebodies,” Warren said. “The application area has had little to no modern exploration activity and we’re excited to be the first company to be allowed to explore the region over such a large area. It is an extremely exciting time for Augustus shareholders as we progress our Mt Kare application whilst continuing to seek out and advance exceptional world class projects in the Land of the Giants," the executive added. According to the company, known gold deposits in the wider Tolokuma–Saki–Mt Tafa region are typically found in narrow fissure veins formed in an epithermal environment. These veins can be as narrow as half a metre but may widen significantly where they intersect with other structures. At surface, the veins often show oxidised sulphides and visible gold. Copper, lead and zinc sulphides are more common at deeper levels. The host rocks in the area consist mainly of volcanic materials overlying an older metamorphic foundation. Augustus said the late-October site visit helped shape its decision to apply for the large exploration area. Access was mainly by helicopter, with guidance from landowners familiar with the river systems and artisanal workings. While the company did not identify the main source of the alluvial gold during the visit, it believes the region’s geology warrants systematic exploration. The Vanapa River application comes as Augustus continues to progress its Mt Kare licence application, situated in Hela and Enga provinces. Through its acquisition of ACM Contract Mining PNG Ltd, Augustus holds ELA2446, the licence application covering the Mt Kare gold project. The application is being reviewed by the Minerals Resource Authority and the Mining Advisory Council in order of submission. Augustus said it has strengthened its board and executive team as part of its effort to position itself as a preferred partner for developing Mt Kare. The company has also been conducting awareness meetings with landowner groups from Enga and Hela to support the permitting process. Beyond PNG, Augustus continues to advance exploration projects in Western Australia, including the Music Well Project near Leonora and the Ti-Tree Project in the Gascoyne region. Both areas are prospective for gold, copper, lithium and rare earth elements. Augustus Minerals describes itself as a company led by directors and executives with international experience in exploration, mine development and corporate strategy.

The dispute between landowners and East New Britain Palm Oil Limited (ENBPOL) is set to move forward through court‑ordered mediation this week, following a government investigation into allegations of underpricing and unlawful land acquisition.  Edward Sasingian and Flora Matiabe of Sasingian Lawyers met with the Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru on 14 November to provide an update on OS No. 194 of 2025 – Simbali Land Group Incorporated and Others vs. Tzen Niugini Limited and Others. Sasingian Lawyers represents the Ministry of International Trade and Investment, the fifth plaintiff in the case. The court issued orders on 3 November 2025 for the matter to proceed to mediation. The sessions are scheduled from 17–21 November 2025 in Kokopo, East New Britain Province, with Justice Gavera Nanu appointed as mediator. The mediator has emphasised that only individuals with the authority to make decisions will participate. Accordingly, Minister Maru will attend and participate alongside his legal counsel and members of the investigation team, having been summoned as the official state negotiator. "This mediation is a direct result of an investigation conducted by the National Government, with the support of the East New Britain Provincial Government, into the complaints contained in a petition presented to me by the landowners and oil palm farmers of East New Britain Province," Minister Maru said. "They complained of gross underpricing of their FFB sales, outstanding payments exceeding K38 million, continued losses of income over 10 years, and the illegal acquisition of their customary land by the company," Maru added. Maru said that settling these issues during the mediation this week will be a landmark decision that will shape the future of the palm oil industry in Papua New Guinea. "I am very pleased that the courts have chosen the Mediation Dispute Settlement System to resolve this dispute permanently. I can only pray for common sense and sufficient goodwill from all parties to reach a settlement this week," he added. The government’s investigation into ENBPOL was launched after complaints from more than 15,000 small oil‑palm growers in East New Britain Province. The probe, authorised under NEC Decision No. 192 of 2024, assembled an independent expert team to examine allegations of price fixing, underpayment, and unfair land acquisition. In its final report, submitted on 27 February 2025, the investigation team found that ENBPOL had underpaid growers by an estimated K 38 million between 2009 and 2024. The report recommended sweeping reforms, including new legislation, an updated pricing formula, and a regulatory structure to ensure greater transparency and fairness in the industry. Tensions flared following the report’s release, as landowner groups in the Wide Bay area of East New Britain closed the gates to the Liguria Oil Palm Mill. Their action was in response to unmet demands: repayment of the K 38 million in underpayments and the adoption of a more equitable market‑price formula for growers.

A 1-megawatt Buin Solar Farm was officially launched last Friday in Buin Town, marking a major milestone in Bougainville’s renewable energy journey. The project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), will deliver clean and reliable electricity to homes, schools, hospitals and businesses across Buin and its surrounding communities — reaching nearly 80 percent of the population. In his welcoming remarks, Chief Albert Nukuitu reflected on the community’s determination to keep Buin powered through difficult years. “In 2018, we formed Buin Power — a community-driven effort that ran 22 hours a day without government funding,” he said. “These young people gave their lives to serve the community and deserve recognition as Bougainville Power moves forward.” The solar farm now transforms that legacy into a regionwide power solution, integrating solar panels, battery storage and backup generators to ensure a constant energy supply while cutting fossil fuel dependency. President Ishmael Toroama, in his keynote address, commended the people of Bougainville for their resilience and unity, describing the solar project as a milestone in the region’s journey towards self-reliance. “What we have achieved today is not by chance,” he said. “It is through our own hands, our pride and our unity as Bougainvilleans. Peace is here to stay.” The President expressed gratitude to development partners for their continued collaboration and encouraged communities to take ownership of projects that contribute to Bougainville’s growth. “We must take ownership of our land, our power and our future,” he said. “When we work together, we strengthen our journey towards independence.” Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki reaffirmed Japan’s support for Bougainville, describing the project as a reflection of long-standing friendship and cooperation. “This solar farm will help stimulate the local economy by improving access to clean energy,” the Ambassador said. He also highlighted Japan’s ongoing assistance to Bougainville, including the construction of 15 coastal bridges, support for the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and the building of new school facilities. UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth noted that the event coincided with United Nations Day, marking 80 years since the UN Charter came into force and 50 years since Papua New Guinea joined the UN. “Bougainville once knew the scars of war, but today it stands for peace,” Booth said. “This solar farm represents renewal — linking peace, equality and sustainable development.” He added that the project will reduce energy costs by up to 50 percent, deliver steady power to essential services and directly benefit more than 200 households. Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei also acknowledged the continued partnership with Japan and UNDP, describing the initiative as a vital step towards Bougainville’s energy independence. “Bougainville Power will manage generation and distribution across Buin, Arawa and Buka,” he said, adding that upcoming government initiatives — including plans for a new hospital, teachers’ college, market facilities and major road improvements — will also be supported by this project. The Buin Solar Farm will expand its network to nearby villages and missions, including Piano, Tokaino, Tabago and Kangu, covering a 48-kilometre radius.

A cocoa cupping competition in East Sepik, Papua New Guinea, brought nine British specialty buyers and boutique chocolatiers together to taste chocolates made from 39 samples provided by Sepik cocoa producers. Judges and visitors praised the beans’ consistent processing and A-grade export quality, signalling strong international market interest. The mini-Cocoa Cupping Competition held in Baimuru Village, Yangoru-Saussia District, East Sepik Province, showcased some of the best cocoa Papua New Guinea has to offer. The two-day event attracted nine specialty buyers and chocolatiers from the United Kingdom, along with hundreds of producers, fermentary owners, extension workers, traders, and community members. It was organised by Yekere Cooperative Society Limited with support from the Cocoa Board of PNG, the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, and other local partners. A panel of four local judges from the Cocoa Board of PNG, Rubio Cocoa Plantation, and Queen Emma Chocolate Company assessed chocolates made from samples submitted by 39 cocoa farmers and groups across the Greater Sepik region. The panel was chaired by Kenny Francis, Sub-Program Leader of the Post-Harvest & Research section under the Cocoa Board of PNG, and included two women and two men. Explaining the results to participants, Mr. Francis said: “When we were doing the tasting, we really had a difficult time differentiating the quality of the samples, which means your processing is uniform and consistent. That’s a very good indication because there were no major defects in all the samples. You should be proud because nearly all cocoa beans are of A-grade export quality.” This high assessment was echoed by the British chocolatiers after sampling the chocolates. Sophie Jewett, of York Cocoa House (UK), shared her appreciation: “I’m very grateful to the people of Sepik for sharing their cocoa and chocolate with us, and for demonstrating the different techniques employed here. We’ve tasted really good beans, and I would be very pleased as a chocolate maker to work with any of these cocoa beans in our factory in the UK. It’s been a truly amazing experience.” Similarly, Alex O’Connor from Nutricraft House (UK wholesaler and importer) was impressed by the overall quality: “I was actually very impressed—some were amazing, some were nice, but nothing was bad. Sometimes you hear that chocolate from Papua New Guinea can be smoky, but in all the beans we tasted in this competition, there was no smoke at all. That shows people are improving their drying techniques and understanding how to enhance quality. I’m really looking forward to working with the people of Sepik to bring some Papua New Guinea chocolate to the UK and Europe.” Rory Payne, from Cocoaloco (British craft chocolate maker), highlighted the importance of connecting producers and consumers: “Our customers have never seen a cocoa tree and most of them don’t know what a cocoa pod is. My job here today is to take your story, your pictures, and your passion back to them.” Meanwhile, Jacques Cop of CocoaCaravan (UK small-batch chocolate company) spoke about shared values and respect for farmers: “I was born on a farm and know the hard work it takes to grow and harvest crops. We have a chocolate factory in the green rolling hills of the UK, where we work with cocoa farmers from around the world. What they all have in common is a passion for independence and authenticity—values we see here in Sepik. We’d love to add Papua New Guinea’s beautiful cocoa to our collection.” The visit by international chocolate makers, tasters, and importers was made possible through the International Trade Centre’s United Kingdom Trade Partnership (UKTP) Programme, the Cocoa Board of PNG, and FAO’s EU-STREIT PNG Programme. The UKTP, funded by the UK and implemented by the International Trade Centre (a joint agency of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization), helps small and medium-sized enterprises export their products to the UK. Ms. Candice Webb Ungerer, UKTP Project Manager for the Pacific, described the event’s success: “The goal of this visit was to create direct partnerships between buyers and producers to facilitate sustainable, long-term trade. I’m so impressed by the hospitality we received—it was truly unprecedented. Having all these cocoa producers together in one place is such an advantage because it gives buyers the opportunity to sample so many different cocoa products.” This achievement follows a tailored market-readiness training conducted last month for 68 lead cocoa producers and agripreneurs in the Sepik to help them meet high European market requirements. The training was supported by the UKTP, Cocoa Board of PNG, and the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through the EU-STREIT PNG Programme and its partners, continues to support improved practices, technologies, and quality control measures in the cocoa value chain. These include proper fermentation and drying techniques, which have demonstrably enhanced cocoa quality in the Greater Sepik region—contributing to the exceptional results showcased at this competition. The event’s success also reflected the power of partnership. Speaking on behalf of EU-STREIT PNG during the official welcome ceremony—highlighted by colourful traditional songs and dances—Dr. Rabi Rasaily, FAO Senior Agricultural Officer, commended Yekere Cooperative Society Limited for initiating the cocoa cupping event. “They came to our office with the idea and initial capital to host this event, and EU-STREIT PNG and the Cocoa Board came in as co-organisers and co-facilitators. We’re so happy that this coincided with the visit of our partners and buyers.” Mr. Daryll Worimo, Regional Manager for the Cocoa Board in the Sepik, said the purpose of the mini-cupping event was “to promote premium cocoa quality at the farm level using sustainable practices.” He added that the event, the first of its kind in Papua New Guinea to be mobilised by a cocoa-producing community, serves as a lead-up to the PNG National Cocoa of Excellence and Agri-Trade Show, which will be held in the Greater Sepik region in 2026.   The EU-STREIT PNG Programme is the European Union’s largest grant-funded initiative under the EU Global Gateway Strategy in Papua New Guinea. It is implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme led by FAO in partnership with ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP. The Programme aims to boost sustainable, inclusive rural development by enhancing returns and opportunities in the cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains (FAO) and strengthening key enablers such as: Digital inclusion (ITU and FAO) Digital financial services (UNCDF) Sustainable, climate-resilient transport infrastructure (ILO) Renewable energy solutions (UNDP and FAO) The Programme directly benefits the East and West Sepik Provinces.

KTF (Kokoda Track Foundation) is honoured to welcome Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, as our new Patron. “I’m delighted to become Patron of the Kokoda Track Foundation. The friendship between Australia and Papua New Guinea is one of deep history and shared purpose — we are neighbours, partners, and friends. I look forward to sharing KTF’s stories about how they have been working hand in hand with communities across PNG to strengthen education, health, equality, and leadership." The Governor-General’s patronage of KTF’s work to improve lives, livelihoods, and futures in Papua New Guinea reflects the deep and enduring friendship between Australia and our closest neighbour. “KTF’s approach reflects perfectly the wonderful spirit of partnership between Australia and Papua New Guinea, because partnership is at the core of everything we do — with the people, communities, and government of Papua New Guinea,” said KTF Chair Ian Kemish AM. “In welcoming the Governor-General as our Patron, and with her deep commitment to supporting Australians and our neighbours alike, we look forward to expanding our impact, working alongside the people of PNG to drive meaningful change.” KTF CEO Dr. Genevieve Nelson welcomed the appointment with deep appreciation. “We are delighted and incredibly grateful that Governor-General Mostyn is continuing her longstanding engagement with Papua New Guinea through this role. Since her inspirational address at KTF’s Lt. Col. Ralph Honner Leadership Oration in 2016, Her Excellency has been a steadfast friend to both PNG and KTF. The Governor-General’s commitment to putting care, kindness, and respect at the centre of her term aligns closely with KTF’s mission to improve lives and build futures through access to education, healthcare, equality, and the development of tomorrow’s leaders. We look forward to working together to strengthen the bonds between Australia and Papua New Guinea for years to come.” KTF has spent more than 20 years supporting locally led, long-term change in Papua New Guinea — training teachers and health workers, building and resourcing schools and aid posts, installing solar power, and fostering gender equality and youth leadership across the country. We look forward to working alongside the Governor-General to keep the spirit of Kokoda alive between our nations. About KTF KTF (Kokoda Track Foundation) is an international development organisation working alongside people and communities in Papua New Guinea to improve lives, livelihoods, and futures through initiatives in the vital areas of education, health, equality, and leadership. For more than 20 years, we’ve been keeping the friendship between Australia and PNG — and the spirit of Kokoda — alive. Our team, 86 per cent of whom are Papua New Guinean, works in partnership with communities to identify their needs and strengths, and together we implement programs that achieve long-term change. Our projects aim to train high-quality teachers and community health workers; provide these professionals with mentoring and professional development opportunities; build educational and health infrastructure; fund the ongoing maintenance and resourcing of schools and aid posts; and provide remuneration to teachers and health workers across rural regions. These initiatives are supported by the installation of solar energy and lighting systems for off-grid households in related communities — powering their success. We also promote equality for all, advocate a zero-tolerance approach to gender-based violence, and promote gender equity among adolescents through the fun of soccer. Looking to the future, we identify and nurture the next generation of leaders among final-year tertiary students from across PNG. Taking a holistic approach, our work is focused in hubs across the country, including our ‘home’ of Kokoda. We currently deliver programs in Oro, Central, Western, and New Ireland provinces, as well as the National Capital District (NCD). KTF is a member of the Australian Council for International Development and holds full accreditation with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) ANCP program. Their high standards for operation are integral to everything we do. We work with a broad range of government, corporate, and philanthropic partners and supporters to deliver real, lasting impact.

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), through its Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and in close collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), has released the Papua New Guinea International Visitor Survey (IVS) for the period January–June 2025. This report provides critical insights into the travel motivations, expenditure patterns, and satisfaction levels of international visitors to Papua New Guinea (PNG), supporting ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s tourism strategies and enhance the visitor experience. PNG is among 10 Pacific Island countries — the Cook Islands, Niue, Vanuatu, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Kiribati, Timor-Leste, and FSM-Yap — participating in the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative funded by the New Zealand Government. PTDI continues to serve as an essential resource for tourism data across the Pacific through its biannual International Visitor Survey (IVS), an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS), strengthening regional tourism strategies. The survey analysed 1,415 responses, representing 3% of total visitors during the period, with a 22% response rate. Key findings revealed that 46% of respondents were first-time visitors, with an average household income of USD 60,000–79,999. International visitor arrivals increased to 53,379, up from 48,622 in the same period in 2024, reflecting sustained recovery driven by targeted marketing, improved air connectivity, and government-led initiatives to raise PNG’s tourism profile. Visitors were primarily drawn by PNG’s natural landscapes, cultural diversity, and business opportunities, as well as connections with family and friends. Historical and heritage attractions, particularly World War II sites, continued to strengthen PNG’s appeal as a unique cultural and historical destination. From an economic perspective, the average total spend per visitor was USD 2,278, with 65% (USD 1,552) estimated to directly benefit the local economy. The total economic impact of international tourism for the six months was valued at USD 121 million (PGK 491 million). Although average visitor spending decreased compared to the same period in 2024, the data suggests a shift toward higher prepaid expenditure, indicating evolving traveller purchasing behaviours and a greater reliance on digital booking channels. Visitor satisfaction remained high at 4 out of 5, with 93% of respondents recommending PNG and 86% indicating willingness to return. Positive feedback focused on the friendliness of local people, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, while areas for improvement included safety, domestic air travel, costs, and infrastructure. TPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, highlighted the significance of the findings in guiding future tourism development. “The International Visitor Survey provides valuable insights into the motivations and experiences of our visitors. This information enables us to refine our marketing and product strategies, strengthen partnerships, and deliver a more seamless visitor experience. With robust data, we can position Papua New Guinea as a competitive, culturally rich, and resilient destination in the Pacific,” said Uvovo. SPTO’s Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Cocker, reaffirmed SPTO’s commitment to advancing regional tourism research and supporting data-driven decision-making. “Through the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, SPTO continues to empower Pacific Island countries with high-quality data to inform sustainable tourism growth. We commend PNGTPA for its commitment to evidence-based policy and planning. These findings not only support national tourism strategies but also contribute to the region’s collective vision for a sustainable and resilient Pacific tourism sector,” said Cocker.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) marks half a century of independence this year, a journey defined by cultural resilience, political milestones, and the transformation of its resource-driven economy.  From shedding colonial rule in 1975 to emerging as a strategic player in regional diplomacy and climate advocacy, PNG’s story is a tapestry of triumphs and challenges that continue to shape its future. Let’s look at these national milestones set in the last five decades:  From Independence to Global Stage  On 15 September 1975, PNG adopted a home-grown Constitution that enshrined democratic governance, human rights, and cultural preservation.   A day later, on 16 September, the nation won full sovereignty from Australia under the leadership of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, its first Prime Minister and a unifying figure among more than 800 language groups.  In 1977, PNG held its inaugural national elections, empowering citizens to shape their own Parliament despite the logistical hurdles of rugged terrain and dispersed communities.   Mere weeks after independence, on 10 October 1975, PNG joined the United Nations (UN), launching its diplomatic presence and amplifying Pacific voices on development, peace, and environmental protection.  Resource Revolution: Mining, Oil & Gas  The late 1970s and 1980s heralded PNG’s first resource boom. The Bougainville mine, operational since 1972, became the country’s leading copper and gold producer, though landowner disputes and civil unrest led to its 1989 closure. In 1984, the Ok Tedi mine opened in Western Province, diversifying PNG’s mineral portfolio.  The 1990s saw a pivot to petroleum with the Kutubu and Gobe oil fields, while the turn of the century brought financial sector reforms: the privatization of Papua New Guinea Banking Corporation and the rise of Bank South Pacific bolstered economic stability.   The 2004 Napa Napa oil refinery near Port Moresby marked PNG’s entry into downstream processing, and initial moves to privatize PNG Power Limited aimed to modernize the national grid.  The PNG LNG Project in 2014 was a watershed moment—ExxonMobil’s multi-billion-dollar investment turned the nation into a major gas exporter.   More recently, the Porgera gold mine reopened in 2023 with majority local ownership, and the Wafi-Golpu copper-gold venture promises another long-term revenue stream.  Governance, Peace, and Social Progress  The late 1980s brought turbulence: the Bougainville Crisis erupted over demands for autonomy and fair resource sharing. Its resolution—the Bougainville Peace Agreement of 2001—granted greater self-rule and set the stage for a future referendum, showcasing PNG’s capacity for peaceful reconciliation.  In the 2000s and 2010s, PNG strengthened its institutions. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) was established to tackle graft, while Prime Minister James Marape’s decentralization efforts increased resource allocation to districts and provinces.  Parallel investments in human development soared. Free education policies rolled out in the 2010s improved literacy rates, while expanded healthcare programs bolstered maternal and rural health. These initiatives underscored PNG’s commitment to lifting every citizen.  Climate Leadership and Cultural Renaissance  Facing the frontlines of climate change, PNG has championed regional sustainability. In the 2020s, it emerged as a vocal advocate for biodiversity and green development.   A historic visit by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in 2025 will celebrate PNG’s environmental stewardship and highlight links between conservation and community well-being.  Simultaneously, tourism and cultural identity have taken center stage. Under the Golden Jubilee theme, “Celebrating 50 Years of Tourism – Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future,” the Bird of Paradise and Southern Cross adorn the anniversary logo.   Investments in eco-tourism and cultural festivals not only fuel local economies but also honor PNG’s ancestral heritage.   Business Evolution: Diversification Beyond Extractives  While mining and energy have historically driven PNG’s growth, recent decades have spurred diversification:  - Special Economic Zones (SEZ) policy to attract manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries, and tech investments    - The Bank of Papua New Guinea’s Green Finance Centre, funding renewable energy and sustainable agriculture projects    - Regional expansion of conglomerates like Steamships Trading Company and Remington Group into Lae and Mount Hagen    These moves aim to reduce reliance on extractives, create jobs, and foster resilience against commodity price swings.  Regional Diplomacy and Golden Jubilee Celebrations  Earlier this year, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit underscored PNG’s pivotal role in Pacific unity. Strategic partnerships with Australia, China, Japan, and India have deepened through trade agreements, infrastructure projects, and development programs.  The Golden Jubilee itself—branded “Stronger Together, Growing the Future”—features cultural festivals, youth-led innovation challenges, a national prayer day, and global investment forums. Inspired by the biblical Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10), events emphasize renewal, justice, and collective prosperity.  Charting the Next Fifty Years  As PNG commemorates 50 years of independence, its journey offers both inspiration and a roadmap. Democratic institutions have matured, peace has healed old wounds, and economic progress has lifted communities—yet challenges remain. Environmental sustainability, equitable resource sharing, and diversified growth will define PNG’s path forward.  Papua New Guinea at fifty stands as a testament to unity in diversity, a nation forging its destiny with cultural pride and entrepreneurial spirit. The coming decades beckon with promise: a resilient PNG, stronger together, ready to grow its future.  We in PNG Business News congratulate the nation on this landmark anniversary. We are thankful to be a small part of chronicling the country’s strides since 2019, and we join all Papua New Guineans in declaring liberty throughout the land and moving forward with hope. We pray for wisdom, unity, and courage for all as we enter the next 50 years.   Mekim yumi stap wantaim. Mekim yumi go het wantaim -- Let's be together. Let's move forward together. 

As we approach the festive season—a time of giving, sharing, and reflection—Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) took the opportunity to recognise the tireless efforts of frontline healthcare workers at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). This week, the NSL team engaged with PMGH staff, providing on-site Member services and serving light refreshments to the dedicated doctors, nurses, technicians, and support staff who devote their lives to caring for others. PMGH employs over a thousand Nambawan Super Members, all of whom play a vital role in ensuring the hospital operates smoothly and delivers essential medical care to thousands of Papua New Guineans each year. Many of these professionals work long hours and often have limited time to attend to their superannuation matters. NSL Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr Vere Arava, expressed his appreciation for the PMGH team’s commitment and welcomed the opportunity to serve them in their workplace. “Our healthcare workers, who are our Members, give so much of themselves to care for others and often put their own needs last. Recognising this, NSL brought its services directly to their workplace, ensuring that they, too, are supported when it comes to their financial future,” Mr Arava said. “For many of our Members at PMGH and other hospitals, caring for others takes priority over their own needs, leaving little time to plan for life after employment. By bringing our services directly to them, we help Members update their details, check their accounts and statements, and learn more about how to make the most of their superannuation.” “I would also like to thank PMGH management for their continued support and for allowing our team to meet and serve our Members. Employers play a vital role in helping their employees achieve their retirement goals, and it is always rewarding to see such partnerships in action.” To date, Nambawan Super has hosted over 20 Employer and Stakeholder Engagements across the country, reaching Members in various sectors. These engagements form part of NSL’s ongoing efforts to bring services closer to Members, particularly those in essential roles who contribute daily to the nation’s wellbeing and development. “We want our Members to enjoy a dignified and financially secure retirement after a lifetime of service to our people. Regularly updating Member details and understanding superannuation options are important steps in that journey.” NSL also provides free Financial Literacy Training to all Members, helping them make informed financial decisions and plan for a comfortable retirement. The two-day engagement, held on Tuesday, 11 November, and Wednesday, 12 November 2025, was supported by the Nambawan Savings and Loans Society (NSLS) team, who shared information on short- and medium-term savings options. Paradise Foods Limited also joined in spreading festive cheer by serving ice cream and their Smart Start biscuits to PMGH staff. As the festive season draws near, Nambawan Super extends heartfelt gratitude to all frontline Members across the country. While their days are spent caring for others and developing the nation, NSL remains committed to supporting their future—growing their retirement savings and ensuring that after a lifetime of service, they can enjoy a secure and dignified retirement.

The Eda Davara Marine Sanctuary Team invites you to be part of something extraordinary. Starting off the year 2026, join us for the Eda Davara Gala Night, in celebrating Papua New Guinea’s ocean heritage and the communities and people who protect it. Set for January, at the Hilton Hotel, Port Moresby, the Gala Night will bring together government leaders, corporate partners, community champions, and young environmental advocates under the inspiring theme: “Eda Goada, Eda Davara - Our Strength, Our Ocean.” Hosted by the Eda Davara Team, this event is more than a fundraiser, it is a movement. All proceeds will go to supporting projects such as the establishment of the Eda Davara Marine Research Centre, the expansion of youth programs like EcoRangers and EcoExplorers, and vital restoration projects across mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs. Guests can look forward to a rich and meaningful evening featuring an unforgettable program of culture and conservation. From inspiring speeches and recognition awards, to live performances and the much anticipated “Roots & Ribbons” fashion runway, where traditional storytelling meets contemporary design. Each element of the Gala Night tells a story of resilience, unity, and responsibility for the ocean that sustains us. Beyond fundraising, the Gala Night also serves as a platform to strengthen partnerships aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It’s an opportunity for businesses, government agencies, and communities to unite in protecting PNG’s natural heritage while promoting sustainable growth. Guests will enjoy a night of elegance and purpose, with exquisite dining, meaningful connections, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for a bluer, brighter future. Sponsorship opportunities are available at gold, silver, and bronze levels, each offering exclusive recognition and visibility for those who stand behind the cause. The organization administers several projects including mangrove rehabilitation, seagrass meadows, ecotourism events that acts as a direct stream of income into the community, and a EcoScholars program that hosts interns from the University of Papua New Guinea, the Pacific Adventist University and the Institute of Business Studies University. We also have an arm under the EcoScholars program specifically tailored for primary school and high school students called the EcoRangers program. Our approach to marine conversation has always involved children because we believe and know that they will lead climate and environmental impact projects in the near future. Join us as we celebrate our ocean, our people, and our future. Together, let’s make waves for change. You can reach out to our team by email via edadavara@gmail.com to purchase a table or support us by donating to the cause. Alternatively, our socials are active and can be found on LinkedIn ( Eda Davara Marine Sanctuary), Instagram (@eda,davara) and Tiktok (@eda.davara). We look forward to connecting with you. Our strength is our ocean. Our ocean is our future.