From humble beginnings as an office attendant to becoming a senior manager, Kini Renagi’s remarkable 28-year journey with the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) is one of loyalty, perseverance, and purpose — a story that mirrors the company’s own transformation into one of Papua New Guinea’s leading landowner investment firms.

Kini began his career with MRDC in 1996 and is now one of its longest-serving employees. Nearly three decades on, he serves as Manager for Client Services, overseeing the vital MRDC Ok Tedi office in Western Province. In this capacity, he acts as the key link between MRDC and project beneficiaries of the Ok Tedi Mining Project, including the provincial government — a role that has placed him at the centre of one of PNG’s most enduring resource partnerships.

Among his most recent achievements is his contribution to the Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) review process, which culminated in the signing of the 12th agreement between CMCA beneficiaries and Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) — a milestone that reinforces MRDC’s long-standing commitment to equitable resource development.

From the Mailroom to Management

Kini’s professional journey is rooted in humble beginnings. “As an office attendant, I was responsible for administration of the office, day to banking tasks, dropping, and collecting mails and filling,” he recalled with pride.

He joined MRDC at a defining moment — the transition period following the formation of Orogen Minerals. “I started work during the transition period after the formation of Orogen Minerals. I can recall staff strength was below 15, a small but effective team adapting to MRDC’s new challenging role managing landowners and provincial governments' equity,” he said.

From those early days, Kini’s curiosity and dedication opened doors to greater responsibilities. Early in his career, he became part of the pioneering team that conducted the first directors’ elections for Gas Resource Plant in 2017 and MRSM in 2018 — establishing a governance framework that has since guided all future MRDC elections.

A Career Built on Passion and Purpose

Kini attributes his long service to his passion for the work, his commitment to growth, and MRDC’s empowering workplace culture.

“MRDC is unique and a success story and the envy of many. My journey was stable because I didn't stay in one position for 28 years of service,” he said.
“The motivating factors that continue to drive me are passion for the work I do, career growth, strong relationships, stability, company loyalty, work and life balance, recognition and appreciation. The organization culture are the key factors that contribute to a long and fulfilling career fostering personal and professional growth.”

Over nearly three decades, Kini has witnessed MRDC’s extraordinary evolution — from a small, post-privatisation entity to a billion-kina enterprise managing landowner and provincial government wealth.

“Many thought MRDC would not survive after the privatization. It was like MRDC coming out of a surgical theatre after a transplant,” he said, recalling the uncertainty of those early years.
“The landowners' subsidiaries under MRDC management were PRK (Kutubu), MRSM, Ok Tedi and MRP (Porgera) MRM (Misima).”

Today, MRDC’s success tells a very different story. “Today, MRDC group is now worth billions. MRDC manages over 22 corporate trustees and that is a testament of confidence in the past and current government places on MRDC leadership and staff. I am proud to be part of that transformation.”

Leadership, Legacy, and the Road Ahead

Kini credits much of MRDC’s progress to the steady leadership of Managing Director Augustine Mano, whose vision has guided the company through a period of unprecedented growth and diversification.

“The notable and significant growth MRDC has experienced from its humble beginnings in Western Province in the last 50 years was under the leadership of Mr Augustine Mano, Managing Director,” he said.

Looking ahead, Kini remains deeply optimistic about MRDC’s future and the legacy it continues to build for Papua New Guineans.

“MRDC is unique and therefore it must be always protected for the benefit of future generations and the little people back home in their hamlets. MRDC is here to stay and will continue to grow.”

Kini’s journey — from a young office attendant running errands to a senior manager shaping the company’s connection with communities — stands as a testament to the power of dedication, growth, and shared purpose. In many ways, his personal evolution reflects MRDC’s own: grounded in humble beginnings, strengthened through challenges, and driven by a vision that continues to serve the people of Papua New Guinea.

Enga Province’s Delsie Casper Nick, a tireless advocate for women, girls and persons with disabilities, has been named the winner of the Not-for-Profit Award at the 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women (WOW) Awards, recognising her transformative work empowering marginalised communities through education, inclusion and care.

Founder of the Kun Women Association Inc. and Sirunki Disability and Marginalised Community Inc., Delsie has dedicated nearly two decades to improving lives across Enga Province. Inspired by her mother’s generosity and her own experiences growing up in a family affected by disability, she has worked since 2005 to dismantle barriers facing women and people living with disabilities, providing vital support ranging from sanitary products and school materials to mobility aids and counselling.

Through her organisations, Delsie has mentored young women affected by violence to complete their education and return to work. The Sirunki Disability Care Centre, meanwhile, has transformed lives by distributing wheelchairs, crutches, and other mobility equipment that enable people with special needs to attend school and participate more fully in society. Her programmes address pressing social issues such as gender-based violence, access to education, and the systemic exclusion of persons with special needs.

“Delsie’s work exemplifies the spirit of the WOW Awards as a woman who sees needs in her community and creates lasting solutions,” said Westpac PNG Board Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley.

“Her dedication to building programmes that empower women and persons with disabilities, often using her own resources, demonstrates extraordinary leadership and compassion that is creating real change in Enga Province.”

Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low also congratulated Delsie, saying that Westpac is committed to advancing gender equality and inclusive growth across the Pacific.

"We recognise the importance of local leadership in driving sustainable change. Delsie’s work is a testament to the impact of community-led initiatives in creating meaningful opportunities for women and their communities," Low said.

For his part, Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns highlighted the awards’ significance. The WOW Awards celebrate and amplify the voices of Papua New Guinean women who are building stronger, more inclusive communities.

"Delsie’s vision to establish a Community Hall and Disability Care Centre represents the kind of sustainable, community-led solution that helps any nation to grow. These awards shine a spotlight on changemakers like Delsie, inspiring others and demonstrating what’s possible when determination meets purpose," Cairns said.

Delsie’s vision extends well beyond her current achievements. She plans to build a Community Hall in Sirunki to serve as a training facility and safe house for women affected by sorcery accusations and violence. She also hopes to establish Papua New Guinea’s largest Disability Care Centre, offering comprehensive healthcare and education for persons with disabilities across the country.

“Every woman, girl and person with special needs deserves the opportunity to pursue their goals and live with dignity,” said Delsie Casper Nick.

“My paralytic brother plays guitar and inspires others despite his challenges. My cousin sister sews despite her disability. They show me every day that with the right support, everyone can contribute meaningfully to our communities. This award isn’t just mine. It belongs to every vulnerable person who continues to fight for their place in society.”

Delsie’s inspiring journey stands as a testament to the power of compassion and perseverance. Her leadership has brought tangible improvements to countless lives across Enga Province and continues to set a powerful example for inclusive development and community-driven progress in Papua New Guinea.

Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) proudly participated in the Young Minds Savings Campaign held recently in Kerema, Gulf Province—an initiative led by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) under the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) 2023–2027.

The campaign was conducted from Wednesday, 8 October, to Friday, 10 October 2025, with the goal of instilling financial literacy and a savings culture among primary and secondary school students across Papua New Guinea. It aims to empower young people to develop lifelong habits of saving, investing, and financial responsibility.

Chief Executive Officer Mr Paul Sayer said, “Nambawan Super appreciates the opportunity to be a part of the Young Minds Savings Campaign, which aligns with our purpose to help Papua New Guineans secure their financial future. By engaging with students at an early stage, we can encourage positive saving habits and introduce the concept of long-term investment for a better future.”

He added, “Financial literacy is not just for adults; it starts with our young people. By helping students understand the value of saving and long-term planning, we are investing in a more financially resilient Papua New Guinea.”

“Many students are hearing about superannuation and investment for the first time, so we take the opportunity to show them how saving early, even in small amounts, can create a strong financial foundation for their future,” Mr Sayer said.

Throughout the campaign, NSL representatives conducted interactive financial literacy sessions to help students understand the importance of saving consistently, the benefits of superannuation, and how small contributions today can grow into long-term financial security.

The campaign brought together key financial institutions, including the Nambawan Savings and Loans Society (NSLS) and others. Each organisation hosted booths and awareness sessions tailored to students, teachers, and community members.

In Kerema, students from Sikalu, Ilakaraeta, Karea, and Epo Uriri Primary Schools, as well as Malalaua and Kerema Coronation Secondary Schools, actively participated in awareness sessions, discussions, and account-opening activities. Many took their first step toward financial independence by opening savings accounts during the campaign.

Nambawan Super also extended its awareness efforts to teachers and staff, highlighting the importance of retirement planning, voluntary contributions, updating Member details, and the benefits of being an NSL Member.

The Young Minds Savings Campaign represents an important milestone in advancing the NFIS 2023–2027 goals, with plans to expand similar initiatives to other provinces.

Nambawan Super Limited remains committed to supporting financial inclusion, education, and empowerment across communities, ensuring more Papua New Guineans can build brighter financial futures for themselves and their families.

As one of Papua New Guinea's most vital industries, the mining sector relies on infrastructure that minimises downtime and maximises productivity. Water management—often overlooked in mining discussions—is critical to both safety and profitability.

Truflo Pumps, an Australian-owned and operated company, has maintained a longstanding relationship with PNG, providing dewatering solutions to open-cut and underground mines for over 15 years. Its deep understanding of the region’s unique challenges has made it a trusted partner for some of the country’s largest mining operations.

The PNG Challenge

Water management at mine sites in PNG poses a number of challenges.

“Many of the mine sites are quite inaccessible, the terrain is difficult, and there’s a lot of water—especially in the highlands where it rains most days,” says Paul Power, Truflo Pumps’ International Business Development Manager. “And the water that needs to be moved is often quite dirty and harsh.”

These are not conditions where off-the-shelf solutions suffice. Equipment must be robust, reliable, and specifically engineered for the job at hand.

Purpose-Built Solutions

“That’s where Truflo Pumps excel,” Paul explains. “Our range of wet ends and pump sets are designed to handle the toughest conditions in the world. We have off-the-shelf models available, but we specialise in the design and manufacture of purpose-built pumps. Our in-house design engineers look at all of the variables and design a solution that will do all that you want it to—and more.”

A prime example is the underground dewatering system Truflo designed for Ok Tedi. The pumps needed to move 800 litres per second, with a capability of up to 1,200 litres per second. This provided safe access for vehicles and ensured a secure working environment for underground crews.

Truflo Pumps didn’t just design and supply the system—they also commissioned it and trained operators on-site.

“We often fly team members from Australia to sites in PNG to provide support and training,” Paul says. “It’s part of our commitment to providing the best service and solutions possible.”

Smart Technology, Real Results

Beyond hardware, Truflo Pumps’ technological innovations have transformed dewatering efficiencies across the world’s mining sectors. The AquaBoss Asset Protection Controller, developed over three years in collaboration with pump crews, hydraulic engineers, maintenance teams, and Truflo’s R&D department, has set new benchmarks for dewatering management in the industry.

AquaBoss features a user-friendly interface that allows operators—without needing years of experience—to run pumps safely within recommended parameters. Using a simple traffic light system, real-time monitoring, and automated curve optimisation, the controller protects both the pump’s wet end and engine, reducing wear, tear, and downtime. The controller can also be easily retrofitted to existing Truflo pump sets.

For mining operations, this translates directly to the bottom line—longer equipment life, less downtime, and substantial cost savings.

A Partnership Built on Understanding

What sets Truflo Pumps apart isn’t just engineering expertise—it’s understanding. With more than 35 years of experience in mine dewatering and a long history of supplying solutions to PNG, Truflo knows the terrain, climate, logistics, and pressures that mining operators face.

The company has invested heavily in relationships, training, and ongoing support, recognising that even the most advanced equipment is only as effective as the team operating it.

In a sector where downtime is measured in lost millions, that commitment to partnership and performance makes all the difference.

PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG Ports) is proud to announce that both the Port of Lae and the Port of Port Moresby have improved their global rankings in the 2025 World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), outperforming several major ports in nearby developed economies (e.g., Melbourne, Brisbane, Port Botany (Sydney), Auckland, Napier, and Otago).

According to the report, Lae Port has advanced from 311th position in 2023 to 264th in 2025, while Port Moresby has improved from 280th to 248th. These gains reflect a continued upward trajectory in operational performance and port efficiency.

“This improvement demonstrates the impact of strategic investment in equipment, systems, and operational efficiency,” said George Gware, COO of ICTSI South Pacific – port operator of Papua New Guinea’s two international container terminals (Motukea International Terminal in Port Moresby and South Pacific International Container Terminal in Lae).

“Our recent investments in new gantry cranes, yard equipment, and advanced port management systems have contributed to faster vessel turnaround times and improved cargo handling efficiency," Gware said.

The Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), jointly compiled by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, evaluates over 400 ports worldwide based on key operational indicators such as vessel time in port and container throughput. The CPPI has become a widely referenced benchmark for measuring global container port performance since its introduction in 2020.

The CPPI measures how efficiently container ports move vessels through their terminals, with shorter turnaround times translating into cost savings, improved reliability, and reduced carbon emissions. The 2025 report emphasizes that high-performing ports contribute significantly to global supply chain resilience and economic competitiveness.

“This recognition by the World Bank is not just about rankings—it’s about the hard work of our people and partners who ensure PNG’s ports remain vital arteries for trade, growth, and national development,” added Neil Papenfus, CEO PNG Ports.

PNG Ports operates 15 ports across Papua New Guinea, with Lae, Port Moresby, and Kimbe generating profits that support 12 Community Service Obligation (CSO) ports — essential gateways that connect remote communities and sustain regional economies.

Despite increasing competition from private ports that do not contribute to the national network’s upkeep, PNG Ports continues to invest in its entire port network to serve both commercial and community interests.

PNG Ports is a State-Owned Enterprise responsible for managing, operating, and maintaining Papua New Guinea’s network of 15 declared ports. The company is committed to ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime operations that support the nation’s economic growth and connectivity.

Fifteen participants at the University of Papua New Guinea have attended Westpac’s Financial Basics for My Business workshop, marking a successful start to Westpac’s financial literacy initiative with the university as part of the global Financial Inclusion Week celebrations.

The comprehensive training module equipped participants with essential skills in balance sheet preparation, income statement analysis and business plan development, which are valuable for both experienced entrepreneurs and those aspiring to start a small business.

“This session has opened my eyes to the financial side of running a business,” said Joylyne Taravaru, a fourth-year psychology student.

“The knowledge I’ve gained is invaluable. I learned that having savings is very important. A lot of us want to save money, but we face problems in doing so, and the session was a reflective one because all the things mentioned are issues we face in our daily lives. The session taught me the importance of saving money," Taravaru added.

Westpac Chief Executive Andrew Cairns emphasised the bank’s commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s business community.

“Financial literacy is the foundation of successful business operations. Through our Financial Basics for My Business programme, we are empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners with the tools they need to build sustainable enterprises and contribute to PNG’s economic growth. We’re proud to support the next generation of business leaders," Cairns said.

UPNG’s Coordinator for Peer Training and Development, Beniah Nari, while acknowledging the bank’s commitment to supporting the future workforce, said: “Financial literacy is a vital skill that empowers students to make confident, informed choices about their future."

"These sessions are both timely and practical, providing young people with essential life tools. The strong engagement and enthusiasm we’ve seen reflect the value of the programme, and we fully support its expansion to reach all students in 2026. Westpac PNG’s dedication to youth empowerment is a meaningful investment in the nation’s future," Nari added.

Westpac will commence its Financial Basics for My Business webinar series in October. Details will be shared via the Westpac PNG social media channels.

To date, Westpac has delivered more than ten webinar sessions, equipping over 200 participants from a range of sectors across Papua New Guinea with foundational financial knowledge to support their business growth.

In celebration of Financial Inclusion Week, Westpac PNG has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive growth and community empowerment, having positively impacted families and communities through its targeted programmes.

As the first bank established in Papua New Guinea, Westpac has built a long-standing legacy of service, trust and innovation. Today, it continues to lead with purpose—delivering financial education, expanding banking access and creating economic opportunities across the country.

In the 2025 financial year, Westpac delivered financial literacy training to more than 6,000 individuals throughout Papua New Guinea, helping participants gain confidence in managing household finances. Its Financial Basics for My Business webinars reached participants in Port Moresby, Lae, Kavieng and other centres, equipping small business owners and NGO workers with practical tools for budgeting, record-keeping and business planning.

Recognising that financial literacy should begin early, Westpac partnered with schools across the National Capital District to introduce financial education to young Papua New Guineans. The overwhelming response from educational institutions reflects a shared understanding that teaching children about money management, savings and responsible decision-making lays the foundation for a financially secure generation. These school partnerships are preparing students not just for exams but for real-world financial situations they will face throughout their lives.

Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said: “Financial literacy is fundamental to building stronger communities across Papua New Guinea."

"Through our partnerships with schools, businesses and communities, we’re seeing real impact—people gaining the confidence and skills to manage their finances, start businesses and plan for their futures. We remain committed to ensuring every Papua New Guinean has access to the financial education and tools they need to thrive," Cairns said.

Tengei Christian Academy principal Omu Ane Ila’Upa, acknowledging Westpac’s ongoing partnership with the school, said: “Westpac’s financial literacy programme has been transformative for our students."

"We’ve seen remarkable engagement as young people learn practical skills in saving, budgeting and making informed decisions. This partnership is equipping our students with essential life skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom, and we’re grateful for Westpac’s commitment to investing in our children’s futures," he added.

Through strategic partnerships with community organisations, corporate bodies and schools, Westpac is demonstrating that financial inclusion extends beyond banking services—it is about empowering individuals with the knowledge, confidence and opportunities to build better futures for themselves and their communities.

Ok Tedi Mining Ltd. (Ok Tedi) congratulates the Ok Tedi Landowners Royalty Investment Trust (OTLRIT) and the Milum Group of Companies on the launch of Milum Aviation Ltd. and the successful acquisition of three Dash 8 aircraft that currently operate Ok Tedi’s charter service.

The OTLRIT, which represents the 12 Mine Villages, acquired the aircraft at a cost of approximately AUD10.1 million (USD6.46 million) from a Singapore-based company that had owned them for the past 35 years. They are now 100 per cent owned by OTLRIT and will operate under the banner of Milum Aviation.

Ok Tedi Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit said, “This is a proud moment for our landowners.

“The acquisition marks a significant milestone in our journey to empower landowner companies to become profitable and sustainable enterprises.

“This investment is part of our broader vision to support landowner companies in securing Tier 1 contracts,” Mr Ilimbit added. “We want to see our landowners involved in major business areas such as mining fleet leasing, warehousing, aircraft charter, drilling, and even contract mining in the future.”

The Dash 8 aircraft will continue to be leased to Ok Tedi to support its fly-in, fly-out charter service, which transports workers to and from operational sites.

To commemorate this achievement, the three Dash 8 aircraft will be renamed in honour of prominent people who played a vital role in realising the creation of Milum Aviation:

• Ilimbit Dream – named after Kedi Ilimbit, Ok Tedi managing director and CEO
• Asekim Pride – named after Henry Asekim, chairman of OTLRIT
• DeSouza Spirit – named after Aubrey DeSouza, CEO of the Milum Group of Companies

In addition to the Dash 8 aircraft, OTLRIT and Milum have also acquired two Q400 Series Dash 8 aircraft from Qantas, Australia. These will be added to their fleet in October this year. One aircraft will service domestic routes, while the other will operate international flights to Cairns and Brisbane. The purchase price was not disclosed, but aircraft of this type typically range between AUD30 million and AUD35 million (USD19–22 million) each. Aircraft management, servicing and maintenance will continue to be handled by Pacific Direct Ltd.

The three aircraft, affectionately known as the pride of Tabubil over the past three decades, will soon be rebranded under Milum Aviation.

Ok Tedi continues to explore opportunities for landowner companies to take on more core and non-core business operations, with several initiatives currently under discussion.

In 2023, Ok Tedi outsourced its highway logistics operation to the Milum Group of Companies.

In a landmark moment of cultural reconnection and national pride, Returning Home, an art exhibition and programme, takes centre stage at Harbourside South in line with the celebration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Steamships, in collaboration with Pacific Palms Property, is proud to bring home five Papua New Guinean artists, showcasing their work in-country for the first time and paying tribute to heritage, resilience, identity, and culture. The exhibition and week-long creative programme, which offers workshops, talks, and networking opportunities, features the work of Grace Hasu Dlabik, Yuriyal Bridgeman, Lesley Wengembo, Jeremiah Neundorf, and Serge Ah-Wong.

“Our connection to culture is something we deeply value. At Steamships, we often say that we don’t just do business in PNG — it’s our home. That belief is at the heart of everything we do. Supporting local communities, talent, and creativity is a core part of our commitment to Papua New Guinea. That’s why it was only fitting for us to partner with these incredibly gifted Papua New Guinean artists, to celebrate and elevate their work, and to share their creativity with the wider community we proudly call home,” said Ruth Kissam, Corporate Affairs General Manager at Steamships.

This initiative promises to leave a lasting legacy across cultural, community, and economic dimensions — from revitalising creative energy to fostering cultural pride, and inspiring both emerging and established members of the art community.

“Returning Home has been a pivotal moment for us as artists — a chance to share our art, experiences, and skills with the wider creative community. The overwhelming response has been deeply humbling, affirming the power of creativity not only to connect and inspire, but also to actively contribute to nation-building, shaping identity, strengthening pride, and envisioning the future we wish to create together, using art as a critical conduit,” said Grace Hasu Dlabik, artist and director of BE. ONE CREATIVE.

As Papua New Guinea stands at a moment of national reflection and pride, Returning Home affirms the power of art to connect, heal, and celebrate. This unprecedented exhibition is a beacon for cultural continuity, artistic evolution, and shared identity, inviting all to witness, participate, and be moved.

The Returning Home exhibition will be open to the public from 10 to 22 September at Harbourside South, Port Moresby. Admission is free.

Steamships Ltd., on behalf of John Swire & Sons (JS&S), officially handed over a new classroom building to Yanga Elementary School in Lae on 22 August 2025. The second classroom was presented to the School Board during a ceremony attended by students, parents, teachers and community members.

The milestone marks continued investment in rural education infrastructure, made possible through the Swire Philanthropic Fund (SPF). JS&S, a privately held UK-based company, has longstanding ties to Papua New Guinea through Swire Shipping, which operates nationwide, and as a major shareholder in Steamships for more than 50 years. The SPF supports education projects across the country and is administered locally by Steamships.

Steamships Managing Director Chris Daniells underscored the importance of investing in communities that underpin the company’s success.

“At Steamships, we recognise that sustainable progress begins with education. Our people are our greatest asset, and many of them come from communities like Yanga. Supporting local schools not only helps build a pipeline of future talent but also strengthens communities that have helped our business thrive,” Daniells said.

Yanga Elementary School was chosen for investment because many employees from Steamships’ operating companies — Consort Express Lines and Joint Venture Port Services — come from the Yanga, Sipaia and Wanang communities. The project responds directly to community-identified needs and reflects Steamships’ approach to inclusive, locally driven development.

The new classroom, valued at approximately PGK200,000, is a prefabricated steel building equipped with student and teacher furniture, blackboards, pinboards and other facilities. It is the second classroom delivered to the school under a two-year partnership aligned with the School’s Learning Improvement Plan (SLIP). Since 2024, PGK400,000 has been invested in the school.

The initiative supports key goals of Papua New Guinea’s National Education Plan 2021–2029 and Medium-Term Development Plan IV, reinforcing the government’s priorities for educational infrastructure and improved learning environments.

As the classrooms open their doors, Steamships and Swire encouraged the school community to take pride in the facilities and ensure they benefit generations of learners to come.

New Porgera Limited (NPL) has announced the launch of the NPL Youth Community Development Committee (Youth CDC), an advisory body tasked with proposing and evaluating youth-related community development projects for NPL funding.

The inaugural Youth CDC comprises a male and a female youth representative aged 18 to 24 from each of the four Local Level Governments (Porgera Urban, Porgera Rural, Paiela Hewa and Maip Mulitaka) in the Porgera-Paiela District, along with two youth living with disabilities.

Ten members were officially sworn in on 26 September, witnessed by their respective LLG representatives, NPL management and members of the community.

Addressing the occasion, NPL General Manager James McTiernan encouraged members to be good leaders and agents of change for the growing youth population in the Porgera-Paiela District.

“Today is an important occasion, as we witness the establishment of the first NPL CDC. Although this Committee is launched in partnership with NPL, its direction will be shaped by you – the youth," McTiernan said.

The Youth CDC is designed not only as a committee but as a platform – a new beginning for the region’s young people to be heard, to participate and to help shape a future that works for them.

The Committee’s work will be guided by the values of faith, inclusivity, kindness, growth, transparency and honesty – principles seen as vital to bringing positive change to the Porgera-Paiela District. Its initiatives will support priorities such as access to education and skills training, small business opportunities, sports and the arts, as well as providing safe spaces for young people to gather and express themselves.

“We commend the inaugural members of the Youth CDC, and we look forward to working closely with them to bring positive development for Porgera-Paiela District,” McTiernan said.

NPL also acknowledged the efforts of its Corporate Social Responsibility team, which worked with stakeholders to establish the Committee. The company said it would continue to provide guidance as part of its community partnerships.

“Together, we will continue bringing positive development through Porgera’s community partnerships," McTiernan said.

Theodist Limited, a leading Papua New Guinean business, has partnered with Kairuku MP and Minister for Energy Peter Isoaimo to provide essential school furniture to St Michael’s Bakoiudu Primary School in Kairuku District, Kuni LLG.

The donation, comprising 15 desks and 15 chairs, was presented during the official opening of the school’s new 3-in-1 classroom in the Kuni Local Level Government area of Kairuku.

The partnership reflects a growing trend of public–private collaboration aimed at improving educational facilities and outcomes across Papua New Guinea.

Theodist’s contribution is part of its long-standing commitment to the education sector, a mission it has upheld for more than 50 years.

“Our commitment extends to every part of the education sector because we believe every student deserves a safe and well-equipped space to learn,” Theodist said in a statement.

This philosophy, the company added, “drives our efforts to provide classroom furniture, supplies, and tailored support programmes to schools nationwide.”

Theodist’s involvement, it stressed, aims to send a powerful message to students: they matter, and their future matters.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside government officials, educators, and local communities to ensure schools, regardless of their location, are well resourced to educate and inspire future generations.

From Insurance to Real Estate – making new roads into the future

Established in 1977 and now nearing five decades, Kwila has long been a trusted name in Papua New Guinea. The company began as an insurer, serving both corporate and individual clients, and its brand has remained strong across PNG’s diverse communities.

Kwila entered the real estate sector in the late 1980s and, in 2019, made a strategic decision to exit insurance and focus entirely on property. Its presence in the market grew quietly until recently, when the company took direct control of its own portfolio.

From 1 August 2025, Kwila Corporation Limited will manage 129 residential apartments in Port Moresby, firmly establishing itself as a key player in the city’s competitive property market.

As Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of Independence, Kwila has launched a dedicated Property Management Team and officially opened the Kwila Corporation Residence Office within the Kwila Kermadec Apartment compound, Section 24, Lot 15, Kermadec Street, Granville.

Kwila offers a portfolio of intimate, modern, and secure properties, delivering high-quality living spaces with refined service at every touchpoint in some of Port Moresby’s most sought-after locations.

Catering to both corporate and private tenants — expatriates, professionals, and families alike — each property blends comfort, convenience, and breathtaking views of the city, sea, and harbour.

With Kwila’s repositioning as a hands-on property management company, it delivers more than just homes: it offers the assurance of a respected home-grown brand, private communities of like-minded residents, and long-term value.

“Our shift from insurance to real estate is a natural progression. At Kwila, we’ve always cared about people’s peace of mind — now we extend that same care into the homes and communities we build and manage," Acting General Manager Sara Hillman said.

“Kwila’s highest priority is providing secure homes and communities, which is one of the most decisive factors shaping the quality of life in PNG," she added.

The company’s mission is clear:

• To create residential communities that combine comfort, convenience, and security.
• To provide stylish living spaces that embrace the country’s tropical lifestyle.
• To deliver professional management and seamless service to all its residents.

When Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence this September, one business stands out for having journeyed with the nation long before 1975: Remington Group.

Established in 1948, Remington began as the country’s typewriter supplier, introducing modern office equipment to government, schools and businesses. Those machines helped lay the foundation for administration and communication in a young nation finding its feet.

Over the decades, as PNG transformed, so did Remington. The Group evolved from typewriters to photocopiers, printers and ultimately into today’s full-service technology organisation.

With a national footprint stretching from Port Moresby to Lae, Goroka, Mt Hagen, Kimbe, Kokopo, Wewak and Kavieng, Remington has become a trusted partner for thousands of businesses.

The company is the exclusive authorised Konica Minolta dealer in PNG and has been recognised regionally, winning the 2024 Konica Minolta Dealer of the Year award across the Australia-Pacific region.

But the Group’s impact goes far beyond hardware.

Through its divisions—Remington Technology, FX Business Centre (the only authorised Fujifilm dealer in the country), BizPrint, OFC Tech Solutions and Remington Digital Solutions—it delivers everything from managed print services and IT infrastructure to document digitisation, cloud storage and workflow automation. Its mission is clear: help organisations work smarter, faster and more securely in a rapidly digitising world.

Looking ahead, Remington is preparing to launch Remington Hi-Tek, a bold retail venture that will bring electronics and technology directly to customers through modern stores in Lae and Port Moresby, and an online shop serving the entire nation.

Together with Remington Digital Solutions, the Group is positioning itself as a leader in PNG’s digital transformation, empowering businesses, government and communities to embrace the next era of innovation.

From typewriters to the cloud, Remington Group’s story mirrors Papua New Guinea’s own journey: resilient, adaptive and forward-looking. As the nation marks its Golden Jubilee, Remington remains firmly committed to shaping the next 50 years of progress.

Everyone knows that to be truly independent, you need your own home. But for many, there is the question of whether to buy or build, while for others, housing affordability is a challenge. The answer to both is NiuHomes from PNG Forest Products.

With over 30 models to choose from, NiuHomes are PNG’s first choice for quality, affordable kit homes, available in a range of styles to suit every budget and lifestyle. NiuHomes come with a wide range of quality inclusions, right down to the kitchen sink.

Models in the Residential Range have everything you need to achieve independence as a homeowner, including electrical wiring and fittings, a solar hot water system, a full plumbing kit including toilet and shower, ceramic tiles, a joinery kit, ceiling fans, and even interior and exterior paint—all included in the price of the kit home.

Then there is their exceptional quality and durability. NiuHomes are the only kit homes in PNG engineered to PNG and Australian building codes that are preservative pressure treated to fully protect against termites and rot, ensuring your investment will last for years to come.

Have you thought about where your money goes when you buy a house? Some manufacturers import their steel and other materials, sending much of your money overseas.

NiuHomes are made from PNG timber, sourced from pine plantations managed by the PNG Forest Authority, putting money back into the PNG economy. NiuHomes are not just PNG Made—they are PNG Grown.

Find your independence in a NiuHome and celebrate the fact that you are supporting your country. After all, isn’t that what Independence Day is all about?