Author

Inside PNG

Browsing
Bougainville

Bougainville Women Selected for Mobility Program

By
Bougainville Women

Ten women selected from four regions in Bougainville will travel to Australia as first participants under the Bougainville Government’s Labor Mobility Program.

Samantha Makasu is one of participants and said to do her best during the nine months course of the program.

“We want to assure you all and our families that we will do our best, learn as much as we can and return to assist our families, communities and Bougainville as a whole,” said Samantha.

ABG Department of Commerce, Trade and Economic Secretary, Alex Kerangpuna urged the ten participants to be ambassadors of Bougainville and make good use of the opportunity.

“Congratulations on being the pioneers of this program. Participation in this program is a milestone for your, families, community, people of Bougainville and also for the government,” Kerangpuna said.

The Labor Mobility Program is aimed at empowering young Bougainvilleans by offering them work opportunities in Australia’s agriculture sector.

It is a partnership between the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and Australia.

First Secretary to the Australian High Commission in Bougainville Dr. Fiona Crockford said it was an honor for Australia to partner with the ABG to start this as a pilot program in Bougainville.

“The labor mobility program is essential to the Australian Government’s commitment to build a stronger Pacific family, it aims to strengthen links between people, businesses and communities, fostering deep connections between Australia and Papua New Guinea,” said Dr. Fiona.

Kerangpuna explained that although PNG had it its own labor mobility program, having such a program exclusively for Bougainville is a great achievement as it will also strengthen ties and opportunities for Bougainvilleans.

Dr. Crockford said the program provides the economic pathway for participants to develop skills, earn good income and support their families back home, adding that the recipients will not only invest their savings in their families and communities but also contribute to the local economy by starting new businesses.

The ten female recipients were selected from North, Central, South Bougainville and Nissan and the Atolls.

Related: https://insidepng.com/key-bougainville-plans/

Keep Reading
By
News

Marape Continues International Travels

By
James Marape Prime Minister

Prime Minister James Marape is expected to attend several more meetings in Hong Kong and China including a Official State Visit to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

But before the visit to China, Marape will travel to USA this today to attend the U.S-Pacific Islands Forum Summit.

With Marape’s increased overseas travels, former Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill said it’s surprising to see Prime Minister James Marape head off overseas yet again.

O’Neill said it is worrying when Marape failed to attend the most important dedication of our country’s 48th anniversary, but instead travelled to Tari then flying overseas.

However, Marape said his travels overseas is for national interest and the visit to US is necessary as PNG’s national security takes precedence.

Marape attends the inaugural PNG-Asia Mining & Petroleum Investment Conference in Hong Kong on 16 October and the 3rd Belt & Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, China on 17 October.

In both conferences, Marape will deliver keynote addresses then depart for the People’s Republic of China on his Official State Visit to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in bilateral meetings, and attend the forum where he will deliver another statement.

Marape is expected to advocate for Pacific Island Counties being affected by effects of Climate Change at a Chinese university .

Keep Reading
By
News

New British High Commissioner

By
New British High Commissioner

His Majesty, King Charles III, has been invited to officiate at the opening of the New Court Complex in Port Moresby next year.

Prime Minister, James Marape made these remarks when meeting the new British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Ms. Anne Macro.

Macro assumes the role as Representative of the Crown in the Papua New Guinea succeeding outgoing High Commissioner, Keith Scott.

Before her appointment to PNG, Macro served as High Commissioner to Lesotho from 2019 to 2022. Her diplomatic career included roles as Deputy High Commissioner and Head of Political Team to Lesotho and Swaziland in Africa.

She previously served in Rangoon, Burma, as the Second Secretary for Political, Economic, Press, and Public Affairs from 2002 to 2007 and as Second Secretary for Trade and Investment in New Delhi, India in 2007.

Prime Minister, James Marape officially welcomed Her Excellency, suggesting her to visit other provinces to experience PNG culture.

“After settling into your office, I invite you to take the time to explore our beautiful provinces and get to know the essence of our nation,” said Marape

The British Government has recently increased it’s commitment in Papua New Guinea through Water, Health and Sanitation programs and offered education scholarship in the United Kingdom.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/grants-for-research-work/

Keep Reading
By
Business

Lae Biscuit Company Earns Prestigious FSSC 22000 Certification

By
Lae Biscuit Company Earns Prestigious FSSC 22000 Certification

Lae Biscuit Company, a Papua New Guinea (PNG) owned food manufacturing company, has made history by becoming the first in the country to receive accreditation from SAI Global for the Food Safety System Certification FSSC 22000. This prestigious certification is a globally recognized food safety standard, which showcases the company’s commitment to international food industry requirements.

The FSSC 22000 certification is based on the technical specifications and standards of ISO 22000, ISO 9001, ISO/TS 22002, and the additional requirements of FSSC 22000. The accreditation process is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), implying a rigorous system to manage food safety risks and provide safe products for use by companies in the food industry.

The achievement is a significant milestone for the Lae Biscuit Company, particularly for the Chow family who have nurtured the business from its humble beginnings to a level where it now competes with multinational companies.

In 2021, Lae Biscuit Company, alongside ten other food manufacturing companies in Papua New Guinea, was awarded the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification by the Papua New Guinea Certification Services through the National Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology (NISIT) in PNG.

The attainment of the HACCP certification took three years, while the FSSC 22000 certification required over a year of dedicated effort.

Ian Chow, Chairman of Lae Biscuit Company, expressed his pride over the company’s accomplishment. He commended the managers and staff for their relentless commitment and for fulfilling all the requirements to achieve this certification.

Edwin Elmer Wong, the General Manager, shared the company’s delight in being the first PNG-owned company to receive the FSSC 22000 certification. He emphasized the importance of the certification, from the procurement of raw materials to line production and final products, and even to the up-skilling of manpower.

“The certification underlines Lae Biscuit as a food manufacturing company that produces trusted brands of exceptional quality and absolute value,” said Wong. He also noted that the certification would further enhance quality production and productivity through the identification of specific control points and the implementation of appropriate control measures.

The achievement comes after the opening of the state-of-the-art Lae Biscuit Company factory in October 2017. The company now guarantees its manufacturing safety systems and management in compliance with the latest benchmarking requirements of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).

The news of the FSSC 22000 certification came over the Independence weekend, marking a new chapter of global recognition for Lae Biscuit Company and Papua New Guinea’s food manufacturing industry.

Keep Reading
By
International

Marape Accepts Invite to COP28

By
COP28

Prime Minister James Marape has accepted an Invitation to attend the Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai.

The invitation given by United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Jamal Abdulla Al Suwaidi signifies the support in addressing climate change effects in the Pacific Region.

Suwaidi heads a unique position in the United Aarab Emirates Government and he’s accredited to Papua New Guinea from Singapore.

Marape outlined his intention to lead a delegation to Dubai for COP28, accompanied by the Ministers for Environment Conservation and Climate Change, International Trade and Investment, and Forestry.

In the forestry sector, Marape aims to establish an arrangement for direct trade of timber products to the UAE market.

Marape pledged to amplify advocating for compensation for Pacific Island Forum (PIF) member countries affected by global warming and emphasized the need to safeguard oceans and marine ecosystems.

Marape said, his initial hesitation to attend the conference was rooted in concerns expressed at the One Forest Summit in Gabon earlier this year.

The World Leader’s Summit will be held in Dubai on December 1st to 2nd.

Keep Reading
By
News

Work Begins on Biomass Power Plant

By

A new biomass power plant project will be built in New Ireland with the aim to provide a more stabled electricity supply to people in Namatanai town and surrounding communities.

Namatanai MP, Water Schnaubelt said for decades people in his electorate have not been accessing normal power supply.

“Namatanai town has been missing out on regular power supply for nearly 30 years and
leaders before me have turned a blind eye on this very essential service for our people,” said Schnaubelt.
He said the district government plans to provide sufficient power supply for the town and surrounding villages at an affordable rate.
“The priority right now is to give the businesses in Namatanai town enough power to
continue serving the public at large,” Schnaubelt said.

Apart from the biomass power plant, a hectare of the land at Mageh plantation will be dedicated to solar power generation.

Solar power will generate roughly about one megawatt power, biomass will give nearly 750
kilowatt power and that will be gradually increased to one megawatt power.

“The boost for power to two megawatt is important so that we can bring in industrialization
and commercialization in Namatanai town,” Schnaubelt said.

The construction of the biomass power plant several kilometres outside of Namatanai town kicked off today with a ground-breaking ceremony today.

“When we sustain the businesses we will then go into rural electrification for nearby villages so we can open up rural economic corridors to enhance rural development like never before,” Schnaubelt said.

The district is looking at setting up rural electrification programs
after the commissioning of the biomass power plant.
“The priority right now is to give the businesses in Namatanai town enough power to
continue serving the public at large. When we sustain the businesses we will then go into
rural electrification for nearby villages so we can open up rural economic corridors to
enhance rural development like never before,” Schnaubelt said.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/tag/edevu-hydropower-dam/

Keep Reading
By
News

PNG and US Defense Dialogue

By
US PNG

A recently concluded Bilateral Defense Dialogue between PNG and United States concluded with Military Exercise, Capacity Building and Professional Military Education as top three agendas discussed.

From the discussions under,

  1. Military Exercises:
  • PNG and US highlighted the significance of joint military exercises to strengthen their Defense Capabilities and improve coordination between their armed forces.

-These exercises are poised to deepen military-to-military ties and enhance the readiness of their troops.

  1. Capacity Building:

-The United States and Papua New Guinea have committed to mutual capacity building by sharing knowledge and technology.

-Collaborative projects aimed at enhancing their defense infrastructure and capabilities will be a focal point of their partnership.

  1. Professional Military Education:

-In recognizing the importance of education in the military, both nations have unveiled plans for Professional Military Education.

-These programs will offer military personnel opportunities for advanced studies and specialized training, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.

The discussions held at Murray Barracks on 11th September was between acting PNGDF Commander, Commodore Philip Polewara, deputy Defense Secretary Simon Tunapai and U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Thomas James.

Talks on this annual bilateral meeting is aimed at reinforcing and deepening partnership and commitment to fostering cooperation in defense between the two defense forces.

A practical example was the completion of a 10 day maritime patrol by two PNG ship riders on board US Coast Guard USCGC Myrtle Hazard.

The dialogue, was seen as an opportunity for both nations to jointly plan activities for the upcoming year.

Keep Reading
By
Autonomous Bougainville Government

ABG Cabinet Reshuffle

By
Cabinet Reshuffle

A cabinet reshuffle in the Bougainville Government is aimed at redirecting development focus for Finance and Mining ministries.

The new changes include Robin Wilson, member for Terra constituency, assuming the role as Minister for Finance and Treasury in the Bougainville Executive Government.

A role previously held by outgoing minster, Mathias Salas who had delivered three budgets for the Autonomous Government and oversight the permanent appointment of Department Secretary, Johnny Auna.

In assuming the role, President Toroama charged Minister Wilson with reforming administrative functions within the department and expanding its responsibilities to include financial analysis, tax management, risk management, and investment management, as some of the immediate tasks.

“Minister Wilson, your first task in getting the Ministry and Department in order is to take control of the administrative functions of department. You will have the full support of the Presidency and the Bougainville Executive Council to introduce the changes that will ensure the department functions efficiently and in accordance with the vision of my government,” Toroama said .

President Toroama also emphasized the urgent need to revitalize the Bougainville Tax Office, pushing for a policy change to keep tax collections within Bougainville rather than remitting them to the Internal Revenue Commission in Port Moresby.

Another change in the cabinet reshuffle would be President Toroama assuming the portfolio of the Minister for the Department of Mineral Energy Resources, previously held by Minister Wilson.

Toroama stressed that changes in cabinet are driven by the need to institute outcomes consistent with his government’s development and independence policies.

“These changes are vital to ensure consistency in my vision for Bougainville’s development and our independence readiness mission,” said Toroama.

Taking on the role as Minister for Mineral Energy Resources, President Toroama outlined his priorities, which include redeveloping the extractive industry and expanding the energy sector.

Toroama highlighted the establishment of the Bougainville Energy Office and the potential for renewable energy sources such as hydro and wind energy.

“It is time we look at alternative sources of renewable and clean energy to address the perennial energy crisis that we are facing today. We have the potential for hydro and wind energy generation. I will be looking at the possibility of reviving the hydro stations at Togarau and Ramazon and getting them online as soon as possible,” he said.

Keep Reading
By
News

PM Visits Haus Krai

By
Student Killed

Prime Minister James Marape, has visited the Haus Krai of a third- year UOG student believed to be killed in a tribal attack in Eastern Highlands.

The deceased identified as Kapira from Telapo village, Hayapuka LLG in Tari Pori District was brutally slained in Goroka town on 25th August 2023.

Eastern Highlands Provincial Police Commander Superintendent, Michael Welly confirmed that the third year student was killed in Goroka allegedly by a group of men from Unggai-Bena district.

He was believed to have been returning to the University campus after visiting some relatives in Goroka Town, when he was killed in a tribal attack.

PM Marape expressed his deepest condolences to Kapira’s family and thanked village elders Tobby Payabe and Ronnie Kapira for urging family and relatives of the deceased from retaliating and allowing for police investigations to bring those responsible to face the full brunt of the law.

“There is no place for killers in our society and I applaud village elders like Payabe and Kapira for taking a strong stand against ethnic retaliation and letting the law take its course,” Marape said.

The Prime Minister’s visit to Kapira’s Haus Krai was accompanied by Koroba Kopiago MP William Bando and other dignitaries.

The body of late Kapira has been laid to rest in his Telapo village.

Student Killed

Recent: https://insidepng.com/marape-speaks-against-killings/

Keep Reading
By
Court

Justice Purdon-Sully Sworn-In

By
Purdon-Sully

The National and Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea has welcomed a new judge through a swearing-in ceremony at the Government House in Port Moresby.

Justice Susan Purdon-Sully from Brisbane, Australia has been appointed for a term of 3 years by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission.

Purdon-Sully is one of three expatriate judges who were appointed in June.
Prior to her appointment Justice Purdon-Sully was a Judge of the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Australia and has a vast experience in family court.

At her swearing-in ceremony today, Purdon-Sully recited the Declaration of Office and Declaration of Loyalty and Judicial Declaration before the Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae.

The ceremony was witnessed by Minister for Justice & Attorney General and Chairman of the Judicial & Legal Services Commission, Pila Niningi and acting Chief Justice Les Gavara-Nanu.

A total of six judges were appointed in June, two of them were acting judges.

Purdon-Sully
Keep Reading
By
Pin It