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Communities in Kutubu and Bosavi have marked a major infrastructure milestone with the official launch of the Poroma–Kutubu Road Sealing Project on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, signalling a new phase of connectivity and development for the Kutubu district. The 106-kilometre road project, valued at K370 million, is expected to significantly improve access, transport efficiency and economic activity in one of Papua New Guinea’s historically important resource regions. The launch was officiated by Prime Minister James Marape, Southern Highlands Governor William Powi, Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph, Works Secretary Gibson Holemba, and Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) Managing Director Augustine Sanga Mano. They were joined by landowners, local leaders and community members from across Kutubu and Bosavi. Addressing the gathering, MRDC Managing Director Augustine Mano described the project as long overdue recognition for a region that has played a critical role in supporting the national economy. “On behalf of the landowners of Kutubu, I thank the Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph for prioritising this project and the Marape–Rosso Government for this development,” Mr Mano said. He highlighted Kutubu’s historic contribution to Papua New Guinea, noting that between 1992 and 2014, the Kutubu Oil Project produced up to 150,000 barrels of oil per day and paid 50 percent tax to the State. “When the Panguna Mine was no longer operating, it was Kutubu oil that helped carry the nation. This was made possible through the sacrifices of the people of Kutubu and Bosavi,” he said. Beyond the road, MRDC and its subsidiary Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK) are rolling out a suite of long-term social and economic investments aimed at sustaining development in the district. Among these is the recently commissioned K14 million Waro High School, which is now providing improved access to quality education for more than 20 communities in Kutubu and Mt Bosavi. PRK has also announced plans to upgrade Pimaga Hospital to a Level Four facility, mirroring the recent PRK-funded upgrade of Ialibu Hospital, to enhance healthcare services for remote and rural populations. To improve connectivity, MRDC is working with Santos and PNG Air to introduce two flights per week from Moro Airport, providing more reliable air transport for the district. The company is also investing in tourism as an alternative economic driver. A new hotel in Moro is scheduled to open in April, while the Heritage Hotel in Kikori is expected to open in March this year. “These investments will support SMEs, create jobs, and grow tourism in Kutubu,” Mr Mano said. The Poroma–Kutubu Road Sealing Project, together with these complementary developments, is expected to strengthen service delivery, stimulate local enterprise and improve the quality of life for communities that have long underpinned the nation’s resource economy.

The Bougainville Power and Water Corporation Limited (BPWCL) has become one of the first State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) under the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) to generate revenue from its own commercial operations following the commissioning of the 1-megawatt Buin Solar Power Plant in South Bougainville. Chief Secretary to the ABG and BPWCL Board Chair, Kearnneth Nanei, described the achievement as a significant step in strengthening Bougainville’s SOE sector, which now falls under his leadership following a departmental restructure that placed SOE functions within the Office of the Chief Secretary. “BPWCL is now one of the first SOEs under the ABG to successfully generate revenue directly from its operations. This demonstrates that Bougainville is building the institutional and technical capability to run commercially viable public utilities that support service delivery and economic growth,” Nanei said. The solar facility, officially commissioned on 16 December 2025, now provides clean and reliable electricity to approximately 250 households, schools, businesses, health facilities, and government services in Buin town and surrounding communities. Nanei highlighted the successful transition of electricity services from the former supplier, Buin Power, to BPWCL, with the latter now fully responsible for operational management and billing. “Through this transition, BPWCL is generating a sustainable revenue stream as an SOE. This marks a major milestone in Bougainville’s economic and institutional development,” he said, acknowledging the cooperation of Buin Power leadership in ensuring continuity of service during the handover. “The Buin solar project is not only about providing reliable electricity. It is about strengthening SOEs to operate responsibly, professionally, and sustainably so they can contribute to Bougainville’s development,” Nanei added. The Buin Solar Plant was funded by the Government of Japan and built by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It integrates solar panels with modern battery storage and backup generation to provide uninterrupted electricity, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support global renewable energy goals. BPWCL is planning to expand power connections in Buin, including to the Buin District Hospital, Buin Teachers College, and Buin Town Market. Workforce development is also a key priority, with training programs to equip Bougainvilleans with the skills to operate and maintain modern renewable energy systems. Further plans include the development of renewable-powered mini-grids for remote communities across Bougainville to increase household electricity access. Mr. Nanei emphasized that reliable energy supply will boost business confidence, improve public services, and attract new investment in South Bougainville. Employment opportunities are expected to grow. “BPWCL currently has ten employees, but this will increase to about twenty this year. Additional opportunities are expected for local businesses in fuel supply, security, and general maintenance,” Mr. Nanei said. Similar renewable energy projects are being considered for Arawa and Buka, pending formal arrangements with PNG Power Limited through a Memorandum of Understanding expected later this year. Communities in Buin have already reported improvements in daily living conditions and economic activity, highlighting the impact of reliable electricity. The ABG commended BPWCL for this milestone, marking a new phase in the development and sustainability of Bougainville’s public utilities.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) will temporarily open Tokua Airport in East New Britain Province to Airbus A220 aircraft operations and facilitate night flights at selected airports to ease congestion and support passenger movement during the peak festive travel period. The measures are part of NAC’s strategy to boost air travel capacity during the busy season, with Tokua Airport now cleared to handle A220 jets on a concession basis starting December 16, 2025, to help airlines manage higher passenger demand. In addition to Tokua, NAC has agreed to facilitate temporary night flight operations at Nadzab, Wewak, Momote and Kavieng airports, subject to advance coordination with airline operators. While night operations lie outside standard operating hours and require extra staffing and resources, NAC said the steps are necessary to reduce travel delays and improve passenger movement. NAC acknowledged the inconvenience experienced by travellers and thanked airlines, airport partners, and the public for their patience and cooperation during the peak period, offering apologies to those affected. NAC Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dominic Kaumu, ML OBE, said the temporary adjustments aim to support both carriers and passengers during the holiday rush while maintaining safety and service standards. The expanded capacity at Tokua and additional flight windows are expected to ease pressure on conventional daytime slots. The temporary night flight arrangements mark a rare extension of NAC’s operational hours, reflecting the high demand for domestic air travel during the festive season. Carriers interested in utilising night slots must provide advance notice to ensure proper staff scheduling and compliance with safety procedures. The Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport, which serves Lae and the Morobe region, has been increasingly important to PNG’s aviation landscape since its inauguration in 2023, when it was redeveloped with international-standard facilities capable of handling expanded services. Beyond peak-season measures, NAC continues to modernise its network of 22 national airports, aiming to deliver safe, efficient and integrated civil aviation services that support socioeconomic development across Papua New Guinea.

State-owned enterprises, businesses, companies, and key government departments in the nation’s capital have joined a unified campaign to address gender-based violence (GBV) in Papua New Guinea, with the Governor of the National Capital District acknowledging that the government itself has been the major missing link in adequately tackling this crisis. The Department of Community Development and Religion, in collaboration with the National Capital District Commission, UN Women, the European Union, the Government of Australia, the Government of the United States of America, and development partners, convened a joint press conference on November 25 to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls. This was part of the 20 Days of Human Rights Activism launched on November 20 in Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province. This year’s global theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” focuses on addressing rapidly increasing online and technology-facilitated violence, including cyberbullying, harassment, and non-consensual image sharing. PNG’s national theme, “It’s My Responsibility – Let’s Work Together to Prevent All Forms of Violence,” links this effort with the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary, emphasizing shared responsibility across all sectors and communities. The conference highlighted the EVAW and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign that runs annually from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). Throughout the 16 Days, partners also mark World AIDS Day (December 1), the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3), and other key observances with joint advocacy, digital campaigns, human rights trainings, sign language training, film festivals, and youth-led actions that reinforce the message of dignity, equality, and safety for all. Hon. Jason Peter, MP and Minister for Community Development and Religion, said: “We join the world in marking the International Day for Ending Violence Against Women and Girls. Violence against women and girls remains one of our greatest human rights and development challenges, and ending it is both a national priority and a shared responsibility that begins with each of us." He added that the government, with the strong support of our development partners, NGOs, and community leaders, is taking practical actions to end violence. "On this special day, I call on families, schools, workplaces, men and boys, and leaders at all levels to promote respect, equality, and responsibility as we work together to make our country (PNG) safer and fairer for all women and girls," he said. Hon. Powes Parkop, MP, Governor of the National Capital District, said: “Let us all stand together to take a stand to end violence against women and girls at home, in the workplace, in public places, and in cyberspace.” For his part, Mr. Richard Howard, UN Resident Coordinator in PNG, said that violence against women and girls in Papua New Guinea remains a major barrier to equality and development. "This year’s call to unite to end digital violence against all women and girls reminds us that safety must reach every space, including the online world where many still face abuse and intimidation. Real change needs leadership, accountability, and a shift in attitudes among men and boys. Together with the government, civil society, and partners like Australia, the EU, the Republic of Korea, and the United States, we can support a country where every woman and girl lives with safety and dignity, both online and offline," he said. Ms. Elizabeth LeBas, Minister Counsellor, Australian High Commission to Papua New Guinea, said that Australia stands side by side with PNG in calling for an end to all forms of violence against women and girls, including online.  "Empowering and ending violence against women and girls is a key priority of the PNG-Australia Partnership – in all that we do and everywhere we work. We recognize that safety is important online and offline. Australia’s Online Safety Act of 2021 and the introduction of a social media ban for under-16s place Australia at the international forefront in the fight against online harm," she said. LeBas said taht Australia will continue to work with PNG partners to address, respond to, and prevent violence – including gender-based violence (GBV) and sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) – and empower women and girls through PNG Women Lead and Law and Justice Partnership. Her Excellency Erika Hasnoz, Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union to PNG, said that the European Union is a strong global defender of the human rights of women and girls and opposes all forms of gender-based violence, including online and technology-facilitated. "In Papua New Guinea, the EU is funding several programs that empower women and girls. For example, we support GBV referral pathways for survivors, are revitalizing the Village Court System, and develop digital skills for women and girls. This is made possible by the engagement and determination of PNG authorities and all stakeholders," Hasnoz siad. U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Ann Marie Yastishock, said: “The United States takes every opportunity to defend and promote women and girls across the world. Gender-based violence undermines stability and prosperity. When women and girls are safe, nations are stronger, and communities can reach their full potential.” The Department (DFCDR) and UN Women acknowledged the longstanding leadership and support of the European Union Delegation, the Government of Australia, the Government of the United States of America, NCDC, and the GBV Secretariat in advancing gender equality, strengthening GBV prevention systems, and enabling community-driven change across Papua New Guinea. The awareness programs were hosted by Hon. Powes Parkop in conjunction with the 20 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Community awareness programs were run by the National District Commission from November 20–30 at different locations across Port Moresby, especially in urban settlements and busy suburbs. The program included free movie screenings, awareness talks, community cleanups, and community mobilization for change. Governor Parkop Leads as Businesses and Companies Commit to Support and Combat GBV Governor Parkop, as Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, secured commitments from administrative heads of SOEs, including Air Niugini, PNG Ports Corporation, and the National Development Bank, alongside representatives from the United Nations and disciplinary forces, to actively join the campaign with the Redvember End Violence Against Women (EVAW) Walk on November 30, 2025. This program strategically focuses on the active participation of the government in NCD as an essential first step, with all Secretaries of Departments, Chairmen of Boards, CEOs, and MDs of state-owned enterprises and other agencies signing a pledge to take all steps to end GBV in their departments, organizations, and lives. Governor Parkop said that while the NCD Commission, as the municipal government of Port Moresby, has taken the lead in becoming the gold standard organization with zero tolerance for GBV at the workplace, in communities, and at homes, NCDC alone cannot succeed unless all other government organizations in the city also join NCDC’s efforts. “The success of the National GBV Response and Prevention Strategy requires all levels of government in the city to take leadership and walk the talk. Otherwise, all our efforts and resources will continue to fail. NCDC and all national government departments and agencies have to take ownership and implement the strategy before we call on our people to follow suit.” To highlight this commitment, two major awareness events were scheduled: The Corporate EVAW Walk: Organized by the corporate sector on November 21. The Whole-of-Government Redvember EVAW Walk: Led by Governor Parkop and involving government departments, state agencies, and SOEs on November 30. Redvember 2025, ‘A Sea of Red’ Businesses, companies, and government organizations came together in a national stand as part of the 16 Days of Activism on Sunday, November 30, for the Walk to End Violence, especially against women and girls. Governor Powes Parkop acknowledged the thousands of people who participated in this year’s Redvember Walk, calling the massive turnout a significant moment and a tipping point in the campaign to eliminate violence against women and girls. The turnout was described as a “sea of red” stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers, temporarily stopping traffic along the Poreporena Freeway for up to two hours from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. The day’s program included secretaries and CEOs signing a pledge to take concrete action and integrate the GBV strategy into their corporate plans, codes of ethics, and contracts of employment across all government departments, SOEs, and state agencies. Governor Parkop specifically acknowledged participation from 23 government departments, Members of Parliament, State Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, SOEs, agencies of state, and city residents. He also recognized the commitment of the private sector, civil society organizations, and community groups, including Active City, Amazing Port Moresby, and Men of Honor from the Digicel Foundation. “When government starts to make and take the pledge and walk the talk, that’s when real change starts to happen. This leading action in Port Moresby will create a ripple effect, ultimately contributing to efforts across the country to end GBV and violence against women.”