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March 2024

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ADF’s Role in Recent Exercise

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ADF's Role

The Australian High Commission in Papua New Guinea has responded to social media users’ questioning a joint exercise between the Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) and the PNG Defence Force’s First Royal Pacific Islands Regiment (1RPIR).

In a statement released by Australian Authorities, Australian Defence Advisor to Papua New Guinea, Colonel Travis Gordon said the training in question is a continuation of a long history of cooperation between ADF and PNGDF that stretches back decades.

“1 RAR’s travel to PNG is the first rotation this year of the longstanding Olgeta training series, focused on activities to enhance PNGDF capability and capacity. Planning for this rotation commenced in August 2023,” said Col. Gordon.

Following the announcement of a team from ADF’s 1RAR preparing to travel to Papua New Guinea, many social media users questioned the role of the Australian Army in PNG.

Thus the head of the Australian Defence Force in country says the trainings is part of the longstanding Defence ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea, the ADF regularly deploys Mentor Training Teams to work alongside the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF).

“The partnership between the ADF and the PNGDF plays a vital role in the broader relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea,” Col Gordon explained.

These teams deliver training and activities with the PNGDF on a rotational basis, returning to Australia upon completion of their training activities.

The 1 RAR’s deployment to PNG is only for the purpose of participating in the next Mentor Training Team activity.

Related: https://insidepng.com/exercise-pukpuk-concludes-pngdf-lombrum/

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News

100th Anniversary

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The beautiful Yule Island in Central’s Kairuku district is commemorating the 100th anniversary of the death of Lieutenant Léon BOURJADE, a French flying ace in the First World War who died in 1924.

The restored plaque of Lieutenant Léon BOURJADE.

As part of the celebrations, crew members of Auguste Bénébig a French navy vessel based in New Caledonia, anchored on the island and performed a memorial action through the cleaning and restoration of the grave of Lieutenant Léon BOURJADE. Famous for his “acrobatic” landings, his name is still associated with aviation through the expression “landing like Bourjade”.

French Navy vessel Auguste Bénébig at anchor on Yule Island, Kairuku District.

French Ambassador Guillaume Lemoine, European Union Ambassador Jacques Fradin and Central Governor, Rufina Peter were part of the dignitaries to the island.

The commemoration ceremony of Lieutenant Léon BOURJADE comes days after the first official visit of General Yann LATIL, Commander of the French Armed Forces in New Caledonia (FANC), to Papua New Guinea. He made a 3-days official visit to Port Moresby at the end of February, where he met officials from Department of Defence and PNGDF to sign a 2024-2025 cooperation plan.

French Ambassador Guillaume Lemoine (right), European Union Ambassador Jacques Fradin (obscured), crew members of Auguste Bénébig and Central Governor Rufina Peter (center) laying wreaths in honour of Lieutenant Léon BOURJADE

The FANC enable France to have permanent military presence in the Pacific Region in order to protect French interests in the region and maintain France’s military partnerships in this area of strategic interest.

With over 1,650 military personnel, the FANC provide regular support for missions involving government action at sea. They have the capacity to intervene in the event of a security or climatic crisis affecting the area. The FANC regularly share their expertise in the field of HADR and maritime security with the security and defence forces of partner countries in the Pacific.

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Education

Scholarships for Geoscience Students

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Nickel 28 support development of professional geoscientists

In efforts to foster the growth of more qualified professional geoscientists in Papua New Guinea, Nickel 28 Capital Corporation, formerly known as the Highlands Pacific is sponsoring two geoscience students at the University of Papua New Guinea.

The announcement was made last month (Thursday, February 22) by Nickel 28 Capital Corporation’s Head of Asia Pacific, Craig Lennon.

“We want to give back to PNG. Having more professional geoscientists is an area that needs more support,” said Lennon during the award presentation.

Shirley Ambang, who was the inaugural recipient of this scholarship when it was first introduced last year (2023) continues her scholarship this year (2024), while Tongia, is a first time recipient of the scholarship.

The scholarship valued at K19,000 per year covers tuition fees, lodging fees, book and living allowances for Ambang and Tongia.

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES: Carlos Tongia (Left), and Shirley Ambang (Right), are two of the first N28 Capital Corporation scholarship awardees. They now have a stronger chance of employment in the mining industry with this scholarship.
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES: Carlos Tongia (Left), and Shirley Ambang (Right), are two of the first N28 Capital Corporation scholarship awardees. They now have a stronger chance of employment in the mining industry with this scholarship.

“This is only our second year for this scholarship. We started last year with the objective of growing to the point that we have an ongoing program with three students each year,” added Lennon.

The tertiary student’s sponsorship package is an initiative of Nickel 28 Capital Corporation carried out in partnership with the Earth Sciences Division in the School of Natural and Physical Sciences at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG).

This support takes much of the school fee burden off of the students and their families.

It also assures resource companies like Nickel 28, that there is and will be a sufficient pool of professional geoscientists to recruit from in the future and gives certainty of employment for scholarship awardees after graduation.

Nickel 28 Capital Corporation is a Toronto-based Company that holds 8.56% joint-venture interest in the world-class Ramu Nickel Cobalt operation in the Madang province.

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Rugby League

SP PNG Hunters Ready for Season Opener

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Hunters Season Opener

Its crunch time again for the SP PNG Hunters, the 2024 Hotplus Cup season opener for the Hunters is on Saturday the 9th of March at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls.

The Hunters with Head Coach Paul Aiton said they had a grueling and eventful preseason, the team named their final 30 men squad last week, the team had two trial matches against the Ipswitch Jets and the Central Queensland Capras, this ensured the team had ample time to work on possible combinations and structures for their season opener.

Ila Alu remains the captain of the team as he looks forward for his 7th season with the club since joining in 2018.

Coach Paul Aiton said Ila Alu continues to prove his leadership prowess on and off the field.

“Ila is the most consistent player in training and a leader outside of the game as well,” Aiton remarked

Hunters finished 10th in 2023 wining just nine and losing 10 matches, the team hasn’t been in the finals since 2017 the year of their maiden premiership win.

Captain Ila Alu says since joining the team in 2018 the level of football in the Hotplus Cup has greatly evolved, and with the addition of Paul Aiton as Head Coach their focus is on consistency in defense and attack.

“The finals are a long stretch away, Coach has bought in a lot of new ideas that fit into our game style, we know we can tackle hard and run hard, but there are some components that we have worked on especially for efficiency for longer periods in attack and defense.

“The game has evolved, especially the speed and technicality, if we can implement what we worked hard for in preseason, we can start off well in our hunt, the finals are a long way away, and we take each game as it comes and work towards the best outcome,” Alu said

Coach Paul Aiton started off with 50 plus players during preseason, among those players were promising talent from the Junior Kumuls that proved their worth against the Australian School Boys side during the Prime Ministers 13 weekend, three players from that side made the final cut for the 2024 Hunters side, Bruce Bawase, Finlay Glare and Gairo Voro, the three were standouts during preseason and Aiton at first didn’t think he would select these players for the final side but, they impressed him and wholeheartedly earned their spot in the team.

“I know these three are talented, they share similar qualities that the current players have and this can push these players as well to improve, I didn’t think I would select these players at the start of preseason but their efforts and humility was impressive and overall they are just great people”, Aiton said

Ila Alu was also impressed with the three young players, he said it was a tough competition among players during preseason, and it really pushed all the current contracted players to fight for their place in the side as well.

“Its good to have the young players coming in at preseason, they push us hard during preseason, its great to have competition amongst us players, these young players are talented and eager to learn, they have earned the trust of the majority,” Alu said

The Hunters have also involved former players in the side, with Wartovo Puara Junior and Enock Maki as assistant Coaches and Butler Morris as a trainer in the team as well.

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News

Neighboring Wards Unite for Peace Amidst Conflict

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Three adjacent wards within the Morobe Patrol Post in Huon Gulf District have come together to call for peace, aiming to quell over three years of internal strife. Representatives from Mayama (Ward 3), Zinamba (Ward 4), and Amoa (Ward 5) recently convened with District Administrator Andrew Namuesh to discuss strategies for reconciliation in a closed-door meeting at the district office.

The primary goal of the meeting was to restore peace and ensure unimpeded movement and service delivery within their communities. Reports shared during the meeting painted a grim picture of the toll the conflict has taken, including casualties, injuries, displacements, and property destruction in Amoa.

The conflict’s origins date back nearly two decades, rooted in a disputed land boundary issue aggravated by settlement encroachments and increased lawlessness, fueled by the growing logging industry in the Local Level Government (LLG) area.

Participants from the three wards unanimously agreed on the urgency of engaging in land mediation, with plans to follow up with a public peace and reconciliation ceremony. Their collective desire for tranquility was emphasized:

“We want peace and normalcy.”

Recent peace initiatives included the deployment of Morobe Water Police two weeks prior and plans announced by Namuesh to conduct comprehensive land and subdivision surveys to accurately delineate boundaries in the conflict-affected wards. Villagers’ cooperation was sought for these endeavors.
Namuesh also revealed intentions to formalize agreements through a Memorandum of Understanding/Agreement during a peace ceremony in the LLG. However, he stressed that the district would not provide financial compensation, highlighting the need for community-led initiatives in resolving issues and fostering peace.

Acknowledging historical neglect, Namuesh underscored the significance of Morobe Patrol Post while calling for a collective shift away from past grievances. He encouraged collective responsibility in elevating Morobe’s stature and reputation.

In response to villagers’ requests, Namuesh noted calls for a permanent police presence and the establishment of a village court system, hinting at potential future developments aimed at enhancing security and governance within the area.

This united effort from neighboring wards in Morobe Patrol Post signifies a crucial step towards peace and stability in the region, demonstrating the power of community collaboration in resolving longstanding conflicts and building a better future for all residents.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/clean-water-for-nasuapum-village-after-40-years/

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News

Upholding Security Amid Transportation Challenges

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Madang Police

In the face of transportation hurdles that have hindered police mobility in Madang, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim has rallied for collaborative efforts between business entities and law enforcement to sustain police presence in the region.

Baim has emphasized the necessity for heightened vigilance and precautionary measures due to the looming threat of opportunistic crimes.
“It’s really affecting our mobility, but with the help of a few business houses and supportive police allies, they have been assisting to at least show police visibility around,” remarked Baim, shedding light on the ongoing challenges confronting law enforcement in the province.

Recognizing the constraints imposed by transportation obstacles, Baim has urged businesses to bolster their security protocols, cautioning against potential exploitation by opportunists. He has underscored the risk of delayed police response to incidents under such circumstances, stressing the imperative of increased vigilance within the community.
“Opportunists might take advantage of the situation and commit acts that police might not respond to promptly,” cautioned Baim, highlighting the significance of proactive measures in mitigating security risks.

Despite the adversities, Baim has reassured the public of the police force’s preparedness to tackle any criminal activities. He has affirmed the unwavering commitment of law enforcement personnel to uphold law and order, while urging cooperation from residents in safeguarding their communities.

The concerted efforts between business establishments and the police epitomize a unified approach towards addressing the security challenges prevalent in Madang. Baim’s proactive stance underscores the pivotal role of community engagement and collective action in ensuring public safety amidst logistical constraints.

Furthermore, the repercussions of fuel rationing have extended to operations at the Jomba police station, where suspects detained in cell blocks are being managed amidst logistical constraints.

Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, the Madang Provincial Police Commander, disclosed that the fuel shortage impacting police mobility has also affected the management of detainees at the Jomba police station. Despite these hurdles, Baim has assured that the police force is diligently working to uphold essential services, including the management of detainees.
“The fuel rationing police are managing at the moment has also impacted operations at the Jomba police station, where suspects detained in cell blocks are being managed,” affirmed Baim, addressing the additional strain imposed by fuel shortages on law enforcement activities.

Baim’s proactive approach and collaboration between stakeholders serve as a beacon of hope in navigating through the challenges posed by transportation constraints, reaffirming the collective commitment to maintaining security and order in Madang.

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News

France Visit

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France Visit

The Papua New Guinea Defense Force has hosted a brief visit of Commander in Chief of France Armed Forces in New Caledonia, Brigadier General Yann Latil to Port Moresby.

In a security meeting with PNGDF acting Commander, Commodore Philip Polewara and Defence minister, Dr. Billy Joseph, both countries discussed on humanitarian support and disaster relief exercises.

A similar meeting held with Foreign Affairs Minister, Justin Tkatchenko and Fisheries Minister, Jelta Wong expanded into measures of minimizing illegal fishing.

As this is the first visit, The French Commander in Chief toured few military barracks including a brief visit to the Air Transport Wing near Jackson’s airport and Basilisk Nasal Base at Konedobu.

France Brief VIsit
France Brief Visit

His tourend included a stop over at the Bomana War Cemetery outside port Moresby where he laid a wreath to remember the fallen soldiers.

The Defence relationship between PNG and France reached new security height when both nations signed the Status of Forces Agreement (SoFA) in 2023.

Related: https://insidepng.com/france-president-visit/

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Education

Support for Education

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Support for Education

The Department of Education, through the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) center in Port Moresby signed a Memorandum of Understanding, signifying their partnership with the Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF).

The three – year agreement aims at addressing the department’s guiding principle of “Leaving No Child Behind” strengthens the collaborative effort between OTDF and FODE in delivering FODE services to the mine affected areas of Western Province.

Deputy Secretary Waipe Wingi (left) and OTDF Executive Manager Andrew Mari (right).

The Ok Tedi Development Foundation over the years they have been delivering services in Education, Health, Social Development, including infrastructure Development in Western Province,

As a registered study center since 2019, OTDF has been collecting fees and meeting costs of satellite centers in the province. With this agreement, OTDF will be meeting full fees and operational costs.
The Education Department through FODE will provide all learning materials, including training and orientation of tutors and administrative support, for the effective delivery of FODE in Western Province.
This initiative has seen students from remote areas, in the province enroll with full correspondence and upgrading programs.

First Assistance Secretary of FODE and Inclusive Education, Andrew Angobe acknowledged the Management of Ok Tedi Development Foundation, for their commitment in providing a pathway for students in the province.
“Please pass our appreciation to the management of Ok Tedi Development Foundation, for investing in education for the people of Western Province.” Angobe said.
He also challenged other resource centers throughout the country to partner with FODE and invest in education.

The Principle of FODE, Anthony Rayappan, also gave his assurance that education materials will be printed and distributed on time.

OTDF Executive Manager Andrew Mari highlighted the challenges they are facing in the province.
This include shortage of trained personnel’s and inadequate infrastructures due to limited funding at the district and provincial level.

He said the objective is to ensure quality and affordable education is made accessible to students. Offering a second chance to those who have discontinued formal education.
“Since 2019, FODE has supported about 4000 students, who have pursued tertiary education and find employment, thus contributing to the human resource development of the province.” he said.

Related: https://insidepng.com/online-learning-management-system/

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Bougainville

ABG Won’t Accept ACP Wagambie Appointment

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ABG on Wagambie Appointment

Bougainville President, Ishmael Toroama said the appointment of Assistant Commissioner of Police, Anthony Wagambie Jnr as Deputy Chief of Police in the Bougainville Police Service is not recognized by the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

Toroama’s comments follow a change of command directive issued by police commissioner, David Manning.

“This appointment will not be recognized by the Autonomous Bougainville Government as it is unconstitutional and breaches the Bougainville Peace Agreement,” Toroama said in a statement.

Wagambie was transferred to Port Moresby from Lae and served as the NCD and Central Divisional Commander until his suspension in January over the riots in Port Moresby.

Under Section 26 of the Organic Law on Peace Building on Bougainville and Section 237 of the Bougainville Peace Agreement, “The appointment of the hierarchical officers in the Bougainville Police Service by the Commissioner of Police is to be based on the direct nomination of a suitable candidate by the ABG through the Bougainville Executive Council”

Toroama said the National Government through the Commissioner of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary had ignored his government in this decision

” We were never consulted nor privy to the process of appointing the Deputy Chief of the Bougainville Police Service,” Toroama sai.

He commented further that PNG’s disciplinary forces are barred by the Peace Agreement from instituting any decisions, be it administrative or tactical on Bougainville without the knowledge and input of the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

“I am dissatisfied with the manner in which the National Government of Papua New Guinea has yet again usurped the role of the Autonomous Bougainville Government in implementing the parameters of the Bougainville Peace Agreement,”Toroama said in a statement.

The joint creation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement by the National Government and the people of Bougainville legally requires the joint implementation of its provisions.

‘I want to be clear to the National Government that Mr. Wagambie’s appointment to the Bougainville Police Service by RPNGC Commissioner David Manning is neither welcomed nor recognized by the Autonomous Bougainville Government,”Toroama said.

The Bougainville Peace Agreement does not exist merely to protect the civil liberties of the people of Bougainville and resolve the Bougainville Conflict. The peace agreement is also intended to empower the autonomous arrangements for Bougainville that came into existence as a direct result of the agreement in 2001.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government has given too much quarter to the National Government in usurping the legal process in the administration of Bougainville’s autonomous arrangements and the Post Bougainville Referendum consultations.

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Health

Angau’s Accountability: Report

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Angau Accountability

Morobe Provincial Health Authority (PHA) CEO, Dr. Kipas Binga, has announced that a financial report and acquittals will be submitted to Morobe Governor, Luther Wenge once the funds allocated to address the drug shortage in Morobe have been utilized.

Dr. Binga clarified that out of the K3.5 million allocated by Governor Wenge on December 4, 2023, K1.5 million was earmarked for the regular operations of the Morobe Provincial Health Authority (MPHA).
The remaining K2 million was specifically designated to tackle the pressing issue of drug shortages that had plagued the province.

The CEO emphasized that the K3.5 million provided by the governor constituted a substantial lump sum payment covering both operational expenses and the drug shortage initiative.

Angau Accountability

Of the K1.5 million allocated for regular operations, K200,000 has already been utilized for public health purposes.

However, Dr. Binga assured that the remainder would be carefully budgeted, primarily targeting the first quarter of the current year.

Regarding the K2 million allocated to address the drug shortage, Dr. Binga affirmed that the funds are readily available.

Once these funds are utilized, a comprehensive report will be compiled and submitted to Governor Wenge for review.

The K2 million donation by Governor Wenge was a response to the “Nogat Marasin Campaign,” which gained traction in Lae City.

Led by a dedicated team of Lae citizens and supported by Morobe Citizens the campaign aimed to draw attention to the critical shortage of medical drugs in the province’s health centers.

This initiative underscores the collaborative efforts between local authorities and concerned citizens to address pressing healthcare challenges, with transparent financial reporting ensuring accountability and effective utilization of resources in Morobe Province.

Angau Memorial Provincial Hospital

Related: https://insidepng.com/angau-hospital-crisis-morobe/

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