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September 2024

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Unpaid Electricity Bills Costing Port Moresby Residents

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PNG Power Limited today released a statement announcing the commencement of load shedding exercises in the National Capital District due to low generation of electricity.

The load shedding commenced when one of PNG Power’s Independent Power Producers, Dirio Gas & Power Company Limited decided to shut down its electricity supply to Port Moresby city.

The company claims, PNG Power Limited owes them K240 million of outstanding electricity bills.

While both companies are in discussions to resolve this issue, PNG Power Limited Board Chairman McRonald Nale highlighted global economic challenges coupled with unpaid bills and aging infrastructure as major challenges placing this State Owned Enterprise in such a position.

Nale said adverse global economic situations and market fluctuations have also impacted our costs and are making it more difficult for PPL to operate efficiently.

“These conditions include, a shortage of Foreign Exchange within PNG, an increased fuel costs partly driven by global uncertainties.

“Unpaid electricity bills and unfunded community service obligations continue to drain PPL’s financial resources.

“PPL requires immediate additional funding so that it can reduce it’s outstanding debt and modernize its infrastructure,” Nale stressed.

Despite all these challenges, Nale said PPL is working hard to ensure there is limited power disrupted to all businesses and residents in Port Moresby.

Residents are advised that there will be a three to four hour interval of power disruption at this stage as talks with Dirio continue.

Dirio’s engagement to supply electricity into the city is under PPL’s Independent Power Producers (IPPs) partnership.

Nale said they appreciate the contributions of many IPPs as important stakeholders as they play a very crucial role in generating electricity for PPL’s major grids.

“PPL will continue its partnership with IPP’s on terms and conditions that are fair and equitable to both parties,” Nale said.

Related Article: https://insidepng.com/dirio-suspends-supply-of-electricity/

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Dirio Suspends Supply of Electricity

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Dirio Gas and Power Company Limited has issued a notice to PNG Power Limited to shut down its power station in Port Moresby.

The notice statement by the Chairman of Dirio Gas and Power limited Ambassador Issac Lupari came into effect as of Friday, the 27th of September.

According to the statement, PNG Power has continued to neglect its obligations under the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) despite numerous attempts by Dirio to engage and elicit a commitment to pay Dirio and it’s landowners.

“The result has now become untenable and PNG Power owes Dirio more than PGK240million” the notice states.

Dirio was founded in 2017 in line with the Papua New Guinea Government’s policy to increase local participation in key industries to economic growth and to ensure that the government’s target of 70% electrification is reached by 2030.

The gas and Power company is entirely owned by the PNG landowners from the LNG affected areas. The chairman also outlined in the notice that since its inception, Dirio has never been a beneficiary to any governmental support such as tax concessions or State guarantees.

The first commencement of the sale of electricity from Dirio to PNG Power Limited under a long term Power Purchase Agreement (PPL) was in November 2021.

Together with its partners, Dirio has operated the Dirio Central Province Power station in accordance with the PPA terms to meet the electricity demands of Port Moresby residents and business houses. However, PNG Power Limited has refused to receive more than 30 megawatts of electricity from Dirio despite having the capacity of 45 megawatts limiting the power generation available to Port Moresby residents.

Dirio in its notice, stated that it does not intend to cause any inconvenience to Port Moresby business and residents but by providing advance notices, Port Moresby users will be prepared for any supply interruptions.

Meanwhile, PNG Power Limited has also issued a planned load shedding electricity schedule for Port Moresby residents and businesses effective as of Friday the 27th of September.

Dirio suspends supply of electricity, forcing PNG Power to carry oout load shedding execises.
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PNG Fashion Debut in Russia

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PNG Fashion will be represented in Russia next month (October 3-5).

Ms Philma Kelegai, Founder and Managing Director of PNG Fashion Week, is attending the BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow.  BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

The global event, the largest of its kind for the emerging fashion markets, will bring together industry leaders, heads of fashion associations, manufacturers, designers, and experts from around the world to discuss the future of fashion.

PNG Fashion

The highlight of the Summit will be the International Exhibition ‘Heritage’.  It will showcase the powerful influence of national and cultural heritage of BRICS countries, as well as countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The founder of PNG Fashion Week will observe this event and make a presentation on ‘Heritage’.

It will also look at modern clothing design and reflect the global trend of embracing cultural codes in a contemporary context.

Ms Kelegai said, “As a leader in this space in PNG, I am excited to see how connections like this that foster collaboration and exchange can lead to massive returns on investment and invaluable reach not just fashion in PNG but brand PNG.”

She added, “PNG deserves to be seen on global platforms, its art, culture, story and rich history is undeniable and I am proud to represent PNG at this global forum.”

Following the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, Moscow Fashion Week will take center stage from October 4th to 9th, featuring talented designers from Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, Costa Rica and the UAE.

PHOTOS BY: PNG Fashion Week

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Papua New Guinea Reaffirms Commitment to Nuclear Disarmament at Global Meeting

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Papua New Guinea is the latest state to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).

The CTBT is an international treaty that aims to ban all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes. The objective is to curb the development and spread of nuclear weapons by making it illegal for countries to conduct nuclear tests, thus contributing to global security.

The 11th meeting of the Friends of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) took place on 24 September 2024 on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at UN headquarters in New York.

The meeting brought together key international figures, including Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and UN Under-Secretary General Izumi Nakamitsu, to discuss the future of nuclear safety and disarmament.

In his address, Foreign Affairs Minister for Papua New Guinea, Justin Tkatchenko, highlighted the pressing need for global cooperation in nuclear disarmament.

Tkatchenko says the participation of Papua New Guinea at the CTBT meeting is a vital effort towards ensuring peace and security for current and future generations reaffirming the country’s commitment to the CTBT having ratified the treaty on the 13th of March 2024. This step reflects the nation’s dedication to promoting safer and more controlled uses of nuclear technology for the benefit of humanity.

In his remarks, Tkatchenko addressed the historical and ongoing consequences of nuclear testing in the Pacific, pointing to events such as the Moruroa Atolls testing and the Fukushima nuclear disaster. He emphasized the need for a coordinated response to safeguard the region’s environment and the health of its communities. “Our region and ocean have been and continue to be on the receiving end of the consequences of actions we are neither a part of nor benefit from,” he stated.

Highlighting the unique challenges of the Pacific nations, Tkatchenko called for solidarity among Pacific neighbors yet to ratify the CTBT. He asserted that the region’s identity and sovereignty are linked to the ocean, which has faced threats not only from nuclear testing but also from pollution and industrial dumping.

To date, 187 countries have signed the treaty, and 178 have ratified it. However, for the CTBT to enter into force, it requires ratification by 44 specific countries that participated in the negotiations, known as Annex 2 states. As of October 2023, several key states of the Annex 2 countries, including the United States, China, India, and Pakistan, have not ratified the treaty.

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Air Niugini Launches Rebranded Loyalty Programs Amid Service Enhancements

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Air Niugini officially launched its rebranded loyalty programs, Destinations Frequent Flyer and Air Niugini Kumul Club

PAPUA New Guinea’s National Airline, Air Niugini officially launched its rebranded loyalty programs, Destinations Frequent Flyer and Air Niugini Kumul Club, during a ceremony held in Port Moresby.

CEO Gary Seddon addressed the audience of management, staff, and partners, highlighting the evolution of the loyalty programs since their inception in August 2009.

With a current membership of 127,000 in the Destinations program and nearly 7,000 Kumul Club members, Seddon noted an impressive growth over the past 15 years, with 85% of members residing in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and 15% overseas.

He emphasized that the Destinations program remains free to join, offering members the opportunity to earn points on flights that can be redeemed for travel or partner goods and services.

Air Niugini CEO, Gary Seddon, standing at a podium with a mic in hand, speaking to attendees at the rebrand launch.
Air Niugini CEO, Gary Seddon, standing at a podium with a mic in hand, speaking to attendees at the rebrand launch.

The revamped Destinations program introduces three membership tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum, allowing members to accumulate status points based on flight frequency and spending. Enhanced benefits, such as added baggage allowance, priority check-in, and lounge access, will be available as members advance through the tiers.

For the Kumul Club, which operates on an annual subscription model, there are three options: Kumul Club Premium, Kumul Club Domestic, and Kumul Club Junior.

Seddon reassured attendees that there would be no changes to annual membership fees, and Premium members will continue to enjoy access to all international lounges in PNG and partner lounges abroad. The airline recently opened new lounges in Manus, Vanimo, and Kavieng, bringing the total to 12 lounges across PNG.

Looking ahead, Seddon announced further enhancements set to roll out later this month, including virtual cards, family memberships, and online features such as statement downloads and claims for missing points.

During his speech, Seddon also acknowledged the challenges faced by the airline in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, including supply chain disruptions, rising operational costs, and difficulties in attracting skilled personnel. He acknowledged the need for continuous improvement in customer service, stating, “We cannot accept mediocrity. We have to own that.”

To address these challenges, Air Niugini has invested over K5 million in customer service training for its staff over the past 18 months.

Seddon introduced Lisa Hill, the airline’s new Customer Engagement Manager, who brings extensive experience from the airline and hospitality industries. Hill will play a pivotal role in enhancing customer relations as the airline strives for excellence in service delivery.

As Air Niugini embarks on this new chapter, the introduction of a new fleet of 13 jet planes—expected to arrive within a year—promises to be a game changer for the airline, further elevating the travel experience for passengers.

[Pictures supplied by Air Niugini]

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Lieutenant Colonel Kagena Selected for Prestigious US-Pacific Rising Leaders Fellowship

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Lieutenant Colonel Velmoore Kagena of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force has been selected as one of two representatives from Papua New Guinea to participate in the esteemed US-Pacific Rising Leaders Fellowship program. The program will take place in Washington, DC, from September 30 to October 18, 2024.

This fellowship, announced by the White House during the September 2022 U.S.–Pacific Island Country Summit, aims to empower mid-career public service professionals from Pacific Island nations.

The second cohort is set to welcome up to 32 participants to the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) for a three-week leadership development experience.

The fellowship is a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University and the U.S. Department of State.

Participants were chosen following a public call for applications and recommendations from regional governments and experts, with final selections made by a panel convened by Johns Hopkins University, in partnership with the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs and U.S. missions in the region.

Lt Col Kagena, who hails from Central Province, Gavuone Village in Abau, and Malati Village in Kanosia, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity.

“I decided to apply for the program after seeing the advertisement online,” he stated.

Currently serving as the Director of the Incident Response Group, he previously held the position of Officer Commanding of the Long Range Reconnaissance Unit. With 25-years of experience, he has excelled in various capacities in both training and operational roles, both domestically and internationally.

An accomplished military professional, Lt Col Kagena is a graduate of the Royal Military College of Australia.

His academic credentials include a Diploma of Personnel Management from the University of New South Wales, a Bachelor of Business and Management (Professional Studies) from the University of Papua New Guinea, and a Master of Military and Defence Studies from the Australian National University. He is also a recent alumnus of the Australian War College in Canberra and the Asia Pacific Centre for Strategic Studies in Hawaii.

Looking ahead, Lt Col Kagena is eager not only to explore Washington DC but also to enhance his professional military education and forge valuable connections with fellow participants, lecturers, and facilitators during the program.

This fellowship presents a unique opportunity for him to further his leadership skills and contribute to the development of effective public service in the Pacific region.

“Establishing networks and building mutual relationships with the other Fellows from the Pacific Islands countries to collaborate in addressing the complex security and development challenges faced by our respective countries in the Oceania region”, says Lt. Col Kagena.

As Papua New Guinea continues to strengthen its ties with global partners, Lt Col Kagena’s participation in this prestigious program underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering leadership and collaboration in the Pacific Island community.

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UK Maritime Security Support Boosts Pacific Regional Agencies

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The British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, HE Anne Macro, participated in the launch of a technical workshop aimed at enhancing the management of the Ontong Java Plateau Extended Continental Shelf (ECS). This event saw the participation of senior officials and technical experts from the Pacific Community (SPC), the Federated States of Micronesia, the Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea.

This initiative is part of the UK’s broader commitment to bolster maritime security across the Pacific region. By supporting the SPC’s Integrated Ocean Management and Maritime Governance Program, the UK government aims to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific, while upholding the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

UK Maritime Security Support Boosts Pacific Regional Agencies.
British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, HE Anne Macro speaking at the launch.

In her remarks, High Commissioner Macro emphasized the importance of aligning support with the Pacific’s own priorities. “It is particularly important for us to support the work of Pacific-led regional institutions to ensure that the priorities being supported are the Pacific’s priorities. This approach is vital to the resolution of maritime boundaries and zones in the Pacific,” she stated.

The workshop, which runs from September 18 to 20, 2024, in Port Moresby, will focus on the recommendations provided by the Commission on the Limits of Continental Shelf (CLCS) regarding the original ECS submission. It will also outline the next steps for future submissions concerning the Eauripik Rise and Mussau Ridge ECS.

Funding for this initiative is derived from the UK’s Integrated Security Fund Pacific Program, which has enabled the SPC to strengthen the application of international maritime laws and support the Pacific Women in Maritime Association. Over the past few years, this support has facilitated the progress of submissions from Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands for various marine regions, including the North Fiji Basin and the Melanesian Plateau.

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Youth Participation during Pope’s Visit Brings Hope to a Golden-ager

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Anthon Kraip and family walked through bushes to see Pope Francis

Anthon Kraip, was among 1500 Parishioners from Mt Hagen Diocese that braved bush tracks to get to Port Moresby in time for Pope Francis’ visit.

The pilgrims arrived in different groups. Some walked through Gulf Province while others walked through Northern Province’s Kokoda track.

Kraip and 25 others walked through the Gulf Province before boarding Public Motor Vehicle’s to Port Moresby.

Each Parish funded only three representatives. These representatives were flown to Port Moresby.

Walking the bush tracks was the only hope for the other pilgrims who couldn’t afford airline tickets.

In his white shirt that had Pope Francis’ face printed on, matching his white beard, Kraip said it was only right for him to make this journey to welcome the head the Church.

“Mi wokabaut long displa longpla wokabaut blong wanem, displa ol lain ikisim tok blong God ikam long mipla. Katolik istap nambawan insait long kantri na wold, olsem na taim bikman blong sios ikam, mi tu laik kam lukim em na tok tenku long God Papa long ol wokman blong em ibringim gutnius ikam long PNG.”

(I took this journey because these are the people who brought Christianity to Papua New Guinea. Catholic remains the largest faith based organization in Papua New Guinea and the world and I wanted to see the Pope and acknowledge God for his servants that brought the gospel to PNG.)

The pilgrim arrived 3 weeks ahead of the Pope’s arrival. St John Parish in Tokara provided accommodation for pilgrims that arrived from Western Highlands.

Among the 1500 people that arrived in Port Moresby, many were young people.

A golden-ager, Kraip was pleased to see the involvement of youths from his province.

“Mi hamamas bikos, em tok i-kisim ol. Mi hamamas olsem ol tu laik lukim Pope olsem wokman blong God. Jisas em wokim sios blong em antap long Pita na makim maus blong Pita, em Pope ikam. Olsem na mi hamamas long lukim planti yangpla ikam.

“Nau tu mi strongim ol, yupla ol yangpla imas behainim ol wokman blong God ken na sanap strong long bilip.”

(I am happy that they have received the calling to take part in this pilgrim. I am happy that they want to see Pope as God’s servant. Jesus built his Church on Peter and the Pope now represents Peter as Christ’s mouthpiece. I am happy to see a lot of the youths participating and I would like to encourage them to follow the footsteps of these missionaries and be strong in their faith.)

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Hohola No.3 Community Celebrates PNG’s 49th Independence

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Hohola No.3 Community Celebrate Independence

A Basketball court and a few raintrees provided the perfect venue and shade for the 49th Independence celebration at Hohola No.3 in the Moresby Northwest Electorate of the National Capital District.

In fact, it’s the 3rd year the residents of Casuarina Place who reside behind the Headquarters of PNG Power have enjoyed independence celebrations in their neighborhood.  Surrounding Hohola communities including Murray Barracks also joined in the festivities. 

This is the Basketball court area that was turned into an arena for the Independence celebrations..
East New Britain Dancers entering in the performance arena. This is the Basketball court area that was turned into an arena for the Independence celebrations..

The annual independence event is organized by the Native Youths Association made up of youths of Casuarina Place. Despite NCD Governor, Powes Parkop announcing K500,000 funding distribution to the three Electorates in NCD; Moresby South, Moresby Northwest and Moresby Northeast to conduct independence activities in their communities, this Hohola community received no funding.

President of Native Youths Association, John Sarwom said, “we haven’t had any support externally or from business houses but we managed to pull through, thanks to our families and Native Youths.”

Dance groups organized fundraising nights consisting of coffee and finger food sales leading up to the big day.  Funds raised enabled them to gather head-dresses, kundu drums, grass skirts and other accessories to complete their traditional attire.

Dancers as young as five-years-old, teenagers and young adults all took part; there were dance practices in the weeks leading up to September 16.  Parents and elders in the community ensured the children were well prepared to represent the various performing groups.

This year, 10 groups representing, Kairuku, Goilala and Rigo Districts in Central province, Kiwai Dancers of Western Province, Tawali of Milne Bay, Gulf province, East New Britain, West New Britain, East Sepik and Morobe province put on show; singing and story telling dances.  The Tawali dance group of Milne Bay explained that their dance told the story of the early days when a fisherman or gardener tends to court a woman but is rejected.

Little performer.
Kairuku cultural group.
Boys from East New Britain performing the whip dance for the 49th Independence day celebrations.
Whip dance from East New Britain.

Each group were also tasked to explain the make up of their traditional attire and the symbols on their provincial flags.  These gestures were educational for all participants and spectators, each learning another’s culture and tradition.

Organiser John Sarwom said, the idea to host Independence activities within the community is to avoid the risk of individuals and families being harmed by opportunists at other celebration venues. 

“We decided to host it here, so everyone can participate and enjoy the program, it’s been a success and we hope to do better next year.”

It was an enjoyable day for everyone.  Hohola Police Station were on the look out for any trouble makers while the community also had volunteers who controlled the movement of crowds.

Parents who rolled down their mats and brought chairs to sit on, had a fun filled day watching their children perform.

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Peace and Unity for Papua New Guineans this Independence

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The words of Pope Francis still resonates in the Government almost a week after he left.

As Papua New Guinea celebrates its 49th year of Independence, Prime Minister James Marape echoes words of peace and unity for Papua New Guinea.

Marape called for forgiveness and reconciliation during the country’s 49th independence anniversary.

The Prime Minister said the Pope’s message was in line with the dreams and aspirations of the country’s Founding Fathers at Independence.

“I want us all to bear in mind and keep in our hearts the message by Pope Francis who visited us earlier this month. The Pontiff spoke of tolerance, forgiveness, empathy and unity. These are important as our country turns 49 years today.

“Despite our political differences, cultural and language diversity, we have remained united as a nation for 49 years. That is something we all must be proud of,” he said.

The Prime Minister in remembering the joyous events of 1975 and in honor of PNG’s Founding Fathers, appealed to all citizens to stay united as a nation for the next 49 years.

“We must find a common resolve to remain united, to heal the divides and to bridge the gaps that exist in our midst, and to ensure our people in spite of the differences of tribe, religion, colour of skin – so long as we call PNG home, we must make PNG a better place for all.

“We must do this as we near our 50th Independence anniversary next year 2025,” he said.

The Prime Minister was speaking at PNG’s 49th Independence Anniversary dinner on the night of Sunday, 15th September 2024 at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Konedobu.

The stadium is a significant part of PNG’s history as an Independent Nation. On the 16th of September 1975, the Australian flag was officially lowered at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and the PNG flag raised for the first time.

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