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Ok Tedi Reports K9.3 Billion Revenue Amid Infrastructure Hurdles

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Ok Tedi Mine Aerial View

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has released its 2025 financial results, recording unaudited revenue of K9.3 billion (US$2.3 billion) and a dividend payout of K1 billion to Papua New Guinea.

The state-owned miner exceeded its production targets for the year, yielding 106,018 tonnes of copper, 298,350 ounces of gold, and over one million ounces of silver. These results follow a two-year strategic shift aimed at tightening operational execution across its sites.

The financial report highlights a reduction in company debt, which fell from K709million in 2023 to K370million by the end of 2025. This fiscal tightening occurred alongside K1.09 billion in tax payments and K178 million in royalties.

 The company also directed K766 million toward the Tax Credit Scheme and K37million into training programs.

While the figures show growth, the year was not without difficulty. OTML faced several operational setbacks, including power-related disruptions and infrastructure challenges. Management attributed the ability to maintain performance levels to revamped planning and the execution of major project shutdowns.

Expansion remained a key part of the year’s activity, marked by the acquisition of the Misima Gold project and the growth of Ok Tedi Energy.

These moves are part of the company’s “Growth 2050” strategy, which seeks to extend the mine’s relevance in the national economy.

Managing Director and CEO Kedi Ilimbit said that the year’s outcomes were a testament to the workforce’s performance.

“2025 has been another exceptional year for Ok Tedi. Our strong performance reflects the discipline, commitment, and professionalism of our workforce and reinforces the value of operating a 100% PNG owned mining company for the benefit of our people,” Mr. Ilimbit said.

Looking toward 2026, the company has adopted Disciplined Delivery as its internal theme, signaling a focus on maintaining safety and operational reliability as it continues its long-term expansion plans.

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Vanuatu 2026: Stability Amidst Calls for Transparency

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After surviving its first year intact following the 2024 earthquake election, Prime Minister Jotham Napat’s coalition enters 2026 with rare momentum. Despite defeating a no-confidence motion and settling long-standing teacher pay disputes, the government faces mounting pressure to clean up state institutions.

The Year of Records

The Napat administration’s first year was marked by high-stakes wins and legislative activity:

  • Climate Leadership: Won a historic ICJ advisory opinion on climate justice.
  • Labor Peace: Signed a VT4.25 billion deal to resolve teacher salary grievances.
  • Judicial Rigor: Successfully applied the 2023 Electoral Act to replace a convicted MP without a by-election.

The Shadow of the “Golden Passport”

The primary threat to public trust remains the Commission of Inquiry report into the citizenship-by-investment scheme. Despite the report being finished, the government’s silence has fueled rumors of a political house of cards.

“The public remains in the dark… poor regulation produces internationally embarrassing headlines.”

Demands for Reform

As the 14th legislature moves forward, critics are calling for three specific shifts:

  1. Legislative Transparency: In 2025, nearly 300 new laws and regulations were passed, yet few reached the public or the Parliament website.
  2. Public Service Accountability: Leaders are calling for an end to “nepotism and inefficiency.” Despite orders to stay open, many offices still close for lunch, hindering revenue.
  3. Constitutional Consistency: High-level errors, such as a discriminatory by-law banning menstruating women from markets, highlight a need for better legal vetting at the State House.

The Road Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

While Vanuatu has avoided the democratic retreat seen in other parts of the world, its future depends on whether the Napat government chooses transparency over secrecy. With President Nikenike Vurobaravu’s term ending in 2027, the “mutual accountability” between the State House and the legislature will be tested.

As media veteran Moses Steven noted, the nation requires “a new mentality to serve the public.” If the government can release the citizenship report and overhaul the civil service, 2026 could mark the end of a decade-long decline in public trust. If not, the current stability may prove to be a temporary calm before the next political storm.

Source: Devpolicy Blog (devpolicy.org), from the Development Policy Centre at The Australian National University.

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Rising Flu Cases Spark National Response

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Health authorities have issued a nationwide alert following a rise in Influenza A (H3N2) cases, triggering a high-level response from the National Department of Health (NDoH). The surge, confirmed through laboratory testing at the PNG Institute of Medical Research (IMR) in Goroka, comes as the health sector undergoes a major leadership transition and receives a historic K3.21 billion funding boost in the 2026 National Budget.

Stability and “Over-Drive” in Health Leadership

The outbreak has become an immediate priority for newly reinstalled Health Secretary Pascoe Kase, who officially took office on January 8, 2026. Addressing the department during a handover ceremony, Kase acknowledged the immense pressure on the system but promised a swift return to operational efficiency.

“As Secretary, I will provide the much-needed leadership to bring stability and normalcy back to the Health Department,” Kase stated.

“The issues of trust, disharmony, accountability, and poor performance will be addressed immediately.”

The shift in leadership is supported by Health Minister Elias Kapavore, who has ordered the sector to “shift gears”, to meet national health targets. Kapavore highlighted that the government is backing this mandate with significant resources, including a 15.8% increase in the 2026 health budget to strengthen infrastructure and medical supply chains.

The impact of the virus is being felt most acutely in urban centers. In Lae, the Morobe Provincial Health Authority and Angau General Hospital report a “noticeable rise” in patients presenting with flu symptoms.

Dr. Kipas Binga, CEO of the Morobe Provincial Health Authority, said surveillance teams are monitoring the situation closely. While the influx of patients is significant, Binga reassured the public that the illness is currently manageable.

To date, officials have confirmed that the outbreak is “not a case for concern” regarding fatalities.

Public Health Advisory: Protecting Your Family

The Department of Health is emphasizing community-led prevention to curb the spread of H3N2. Officials advise all citizens to maintain strict hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap or alcohol-based sanitizers after being in public areas or using PMVs.

The health message is clear: Practice respiratory manners by covering your mouth with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. To protect the wider community, anyone feeling unwell is urged to stay home from work, school, or local markets. Avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated areas is also highly recommended.

Home Care and Seeking Medical Help

For those experiencing mild symptoms, the NDoH recommends prioritizing rest and hydration through water, lemon tea, and clear soups. Traditional remedies like hot water steaming are encouraged to clear congestion. While paracetamol can be used to manage fever and body aches, authorities warned against self-medicating with antibiotics, which are ineffective against viral infections.

Families are urged to monitor vulnerable members, including the elderly and young children. Medical help should be sought immediately if a patient experiences shortness of breath, chest pain, or persistent confusion.

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PNG Lewas Lose to Bangladesh in World Cup Qualifier

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The Papua New Guinea Lewas’ campaign in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier hit a hurdle yesterday as they fell to a 30-run defeat against Bangladesh at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Nepal.

Despite the loss, the Lewas displayed significant grit, fighting through to the final ball against a clinical opponent.

Bangladesh, batting first, posted a competitive total of 168/5 from their allotted 20 overs. The Lewas responded determinedly, successfully batting out their full innings to finish on 138/9.

While the PNG side was unable to close the gap, the performance showed a resilience that the team hopes to carry into their upcoming fixtures.

The Lewas will now regroup and turn their focus to their next fixture as the campaign continues. Their next challenge comes against Namibia on 24 January 2026, a match seen as a vital opportunity to regain momentum.

The national body stands firmly behind the squad as they prepare for the must-win clash.

“Cricket Papua New Guinea remains confident in the Lewas’ ability to build from each match and continue to represent the nation with pride on the global stage.”

A victory on Saturday will be essential as the team looks “to bounce back and strengthen their position in the tournament.”

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Tedesco: DCE can be Roosters new Cronk

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The Sydney Roosters have descended on Bondi Beach for a community touch footy session, but the real talk was the massive “bombshell” move of Daly Cherry-Evans. For the rugby league-mad fans in PNG, the sight of the Manly legend in Tricolours is still sinking in, but Captain James Tedesco says the veteran halfback is already channeling a club legend.

Tedesco admitted that “it feels normal now but at the start it was a bit weird, a bit different” after DCE’s club-record 352 games for Manly. However, the skipper is already seeing shades of Cooper Cronk in the 36-year-old playmaker. Tedesco noted “similarities in terms of their leadership, their experience, their communication and their clarity in the way they talk to the team.”

New Sydney Roosters recruit Daly Cherry-Evans poses for photos
New Sydney Roosters recruit Daly Cherry-Evans poses for photos at Alliance Stadium in Sydney, Thursday, November 20, 2025. (AAP Image/Jessica Hromas)

Having a veteran like DCE steering the ship is a frightening prospect for rivals, especially after Tedesco’s Dally M-winning 2025 season.

“Having (Cherry-Evans) come into the team takes a lot of pressure off me as well, I’m not the main voice,” Tedesco said.

He acknowledged that while “everyone’s still going to compare” DCE to Cronk, the halfback “brings a lot of different aspects and different skills” to this new era.

The Roosters are primed for a premiership run with DCE and hooker Reece Robson joining the ranks. Tedesco also cleared the air on local product Hugo Savala, insisting there is “no tension at all” as Savala moves into a utility role.

Meanwhile, the club is preparing for one last big year with Mark Nawaqanitawase before his move to rugby union, with the skipper saying “he’d always be welcome back here, he loves the area and he loves the club.”

Source: Australian Associated Press

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PNG Waste Recovery Reaches New Peaks

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Piles of trash bags full of PET bottles

A massive environmental effort has seen over 29 million discarded containers recovered across the nation’s two largest cities throughout the past year.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PNG (CCEP PNG) recently confirmed that their 2025 green initiative salvaged roughly 791 tonnes of debris. The sheer scale of the reclaimed material is equivalent to the surface area of 15 football pitches or the total volume of seven world-class swimming facilities.

The venture, a collaborative project with Branis Recycling Limited, transforms everyday trash into a source of income for citizens. Individuals bringing used PET packaging to depots in Port Moresby or Lae are compensated with K1.00 for every kilo submitted.

Once gathered, the materials are processed and compacted for overseas transit. Country Director Tim Solly said the operation’s success stems from years of steady growth since its 2022 inception.

“We started this initiative to collect and recycle plastic beverage bottles back in 2022 (with the commencement of the initial pilot program), with our collection partners, Branis Recycling. This year’s results are a clear reflection of our ongoing commitment to help reduce plastic waste.”

While the cleanup happens on the ground in Papua New Guinea, the final transformation occurs abroad. Swire Shipping facilitates this by offering complimentary sea transport to Malaysia, where the scrap is converted into reusable resources.

Notably, the scheme does not discriminate based on branding; it accepts packaging from all local drink producers to maximize its ecological impact.

“We would like to see other beverage manufacturers in PNG join this program. Together we can make a real difference in reducing plastic water and preserving PNG’s environment.”

After retrieving 474 tonnes of refuse in 2024, the project expanded its reach to Lae last May. This strategic move was instrumental in hitting the record-breaking figures announced this week. By merging cash rewards with international shipping networks, the initiative provides a roadmap for how developing nations can effectively combat the global pollution crisis.

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Randall Embraces Middle Move in Titans Overhaul

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The Gold Coast Titans are undergoing a tactical identity shift under new head coach Josh Hannay, with Chris Randall becoming the latest veteran to trade his utility status for a permanent home in the forward pack.

After spliting his 97-game career between dummy-half and the back row, Randall has officially transitioned into a middle forward for the 2026 season. He follows teammate Klese Haas, who recently confirmed his own departure from the edge.

“I’m not a back-rower any more. I am a middle now,” Haas said.

Hannay’s arrival has brought sweeping changes to Parkwood, including a significant roster overhaul involving 12 departures. Beyond the personnel changes, the coach is prioritizing positional “certainty”—a welcome change for a player like Randall who has often been the team’s “Mr. Fix-it.”

“When Josh first came he chatted to me about trying to lock down one position and giving me that chance to actually get the reps in at the one position,” Randall explained. “I have been training in the middle and not getting moved around. I haven’t had that for a while these past couple of pre-seasons.”

While Randall’s versatility remains an insurance policy for the Titans, he admitted that being a utility player can hinder individual growth.

“I am always happy to jump in where I have to and help the team but it can be a bit of a blessing and a curse. You miss the reps at the one position and you can’t kick on and get better at the one spot because you keep changing,” Randall said. “At the moment I have just been training in the middle and I am really enjoying it. Hopefully I can build off that this year.”

Randall and Haas join a formidable engine room led by Maroons stars Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Moeaki Fotuaika, alongside Jaiman Jolliffe. This shift is made possible by the Titans’ newfound depth at hooker; with Sam Verrills starting and the arrival of Oliver Pascoe and Luke Sommerton, Randall’s days behind the ruck appear over.

“I haven’t been a hooker at all this pre-season. We have got a few numbers at hooker this year which helps,” Randall noted. “I don’t think I will be a hooker this year.”

With “Tino” capable of playing both prop and lock, Randall is eyeing a potential starting role at No. 13. While the competition is fierce, the former Knight is focused on the upcoming trials to prove he belongs in the run-on side.

“Everyone would love to be starting,” Randall said. “We are all competing for spots. Nothing is ever set in stone and we have got trials coming up and I think Josh will have a few decisions to make. All I can do is keep training my best and hopefully I can get a starting spot, if not on the bench.”

Source: Australian Associated Press | Image – AAP © 2026

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Ok Tedi and Femili PNG Partner to Tackle Domestic Violence

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Ok Tedi labelled paper bag and Two black cover wrapped packages of coffee

In a move to bridge corporate social responsibility with grassroots advocacy, Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has announced a new partnership with Femili PNG to combat the ongoing crisis of domestic and family violence in Papua New Guinea.

The mining giant utilized the high-profile stage of the recent PNG Investment Week conference in Sydney to spotlight the cause. Rather than traditional corporate branding, Ok Tedi purchased and distributed Femili PNG’s specialty coffee, sourced from the Western Highlands as complimentary gifts to international delegates.

The initiative serves a dual purpose to promote premium PNG exports while directly funding essential services for survivors of gender-based violence.

The collaboration comes at a critical time for PNG, where domestic violence remains a systemic challenge. According to Ok Tedi representatives, the partnership is intended to be more than just a donation; it is a public-facing commitment to community safety.

“Domestic violence continues to affect far too many families in Papua New Guinea, and we all have a responsibility to be part of the solution,’’ said Ruth Waram, Ok Tedi’s Manager for Media and Public Relations.

Waram emphasized that the coffee purchase was a strategic choice to amplify Femili PNG’s mission.

“Our purchase of these coffee packs is more than a gesture, it is a statement of solidarity and a commitment towards promoting safer, stronger communities across PNG,” she added.

Femili PNG, a leading non-governmental organization, operates on the front lines of the crisis. Proceeds from their coffee sales are funnelled directly into:

  •  Case management services for survivors.
  •  Safe accommodation and emergency housing.
  • Outreach and advocacy programs nationwide.

Jocelyn Condon, Executive Director of Femili PNG Australia, noted that corporate backing is vital for the sustainability of these services.

“Funds raised from every purchase of coffee directly supports the services Femili PNG provide to survivors who need safety, care, and a pathway to rebuild their lives,” Condon said.

“Ok Tedi’s support in this initiative, and hopefully into the future, give us all great hope for the potential of business to step forward and resource the movement for positive change.”

Looking Ahead The collaboration at the Sydney conference, hosted by the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy, marks a growing trend of PNG’s extractives industry engaging with social issues. By integrating a non-profit’s product into a major investment event, Ok Tedi has signalled that the social in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) remains a priority for the company’s operations within the country.

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Ireland Beats PNG Lewas

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Two women in motion playing cricket. One in a green shirt holding a bat and another wearing a red, black and gold shirt standing behind the wicket.

The Papua New Guinea Lewas quest for a spot in the T20 World Cup hit a hurdle on Sunday as they fell to a 41-run defeat against a clinical Ireland side.

Competing in Match 4 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026, the Lewas struggled to keep pace with the Irish scoring rate at the Mulpani Cricket Ground. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Ireland posted a competitive 146 for 6, driven by a balanced performance across their batting order.

Chasing a target of 147, the Lewas’ batting lineup found it difficult to find the boundary against a disciplined Irish attack. Despite batting out their full 20 overs, PNG finished on 105 for 6.

While the defeat is a setback for their immediate standings, the Lewas camp viewed the clash as a vital benchmark for the team’s development.

“The match provided valuable experience for the Lewas against quality opposition as they continue their campaign in the Global Qualifiers,” the team noted in a post-match statement.

The Lewas remain in the hunt for qualification but will need to sharpen their execution in the middle overs to stay competitive against the tournament’s top-seeded teams. The leadership group emphasized that the focus remains on building consistency and executing key moments as the pressure of the group stages intensifies.

The PNG Lewas will now refocus on their upcoming fixtures, where wins are becoming increasingly essential to keep their dreams of a global stage appearance alive.

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PNG Lewas Eye World Cup Berth After Aussie Tour

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Group short, PNG Lewas and Officials

The Papua New Guinea Lewas have officially transitioned to the final stage of their World Cup journey, arriving in Nepal following a high-intensity preparation stint in Australia.

The national women’s cricket team is eyeing a historic milestone as they prepare to compete in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, running from 18th January to 1st February 2026.

The Lewas recently wrapped up a successful campaign at the Australian Country Cricket Championships in Adelaide. Finishing fifth overall, the team used the tournament as a high-performance laboratory to test tactics and build squad cohesion against elite opposition.

The tour was made possible through the PacificAus Sports partnership between the Australian Government and Cricket Australia, a program designed to bridge the gap between Pacific athletes and international competition.

Australian High Commissioner to PNG, His Excellency Ewen McDonald, emphasized that the partnership transcends the scoreboard.

“Papua New Guinea and Australia share a strong connection through cricket, and the PNG Lewas continue to inspire both at home and across the Pacific region,” High Commissioner McDonald said.

“The Australian Government is proud to support women’s cricket in PNG through PacificAus Sports, helping provide opportunities for elite competition, professional development and international exposure as the talented team strives for T20 World Cup qualification.”

The Road to England 2026

The stakes in Nepal could not be higher. The Lewas are one of ten nations vying for just four available slots for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in England this June.

Cricket PNG Board Chairman, Michael Harrison, noted that the Australian leg of the journey was a vital stepping stone for the challenges ahead in Nepal.

“The Australian Country Championships provided exactly the level of competition we needed at this stage of preparation,” Harrison said.

“The learnings from Adelaide, combined with our transition into Nepal, place the Lewas in a strong position as they pursue a historic top-four finish and qualification for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.”

Discipline and Depth

National selectors are confident that the rigorous schedule has hardened the squad for the pressures of a Global Qualifier. Hudson Leka, Chairman of the National Selection Panel, praised the team’s growth during their recent matches.

“Selection and preparation have focused on consistency, adaptability and the ability to perform under pressure,” Leka stated.

“The Australian tournament tested those qualities, and the team is now fully focused on delivering in Nepal.”

With enhanced high-performance planning and specialist coaching support backed by the Australian Government, the Lewas now stand on the precipice of securing their place on the world’s biggest stage.

PNG Lewas: Road to the World Cup Fact Sheet

The PNG Lewas enter this final qualifying phase in Nepal with significant momentum, currently ranked 13th in the world in T20 Internationals. Under the leadership of Captain Brenda Tau, the squad features a balanced mix of experience and rising talent, including key players like Pauke Siaka, Sibona Jimmy, and Henao Thomas.

The team earned their place in this Global Qualifier by dominating the East Asia-Pacific region, and they are now looking to secure one of the four available tickets to the main event in England and Wales this June.

The tournament in Nepal is hosted across two venues in Kathmandu: the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground and the Upper Mulpani Cricket Ground. The Lewas have been placed in a challenging Group A alongside Ireland, Bangladesh, Namibia, and the USA.

Their campaign officially begins this Sunday, January 18, with a high-stakes opening match against Ireland, followed by a clash with Bangladesh on January 20. The group stage concludes with matches against Namibia on January 24 and the USA on January 26, after which the top teams will progress to the Super Six stage to determine the final World Cup qualifiers.

This campaign represents a critical milestone for Papua New Guinean cricket, supported by the ongoing PacificAus Sports partnership which provided the elite training environment in Adelaide. With only a top-four finish required to secure their first-ever T20 World Cup appearance, the Lewas are fully acclimated to the conditions in Kathmandu and prepared to make history for the Pacific region.

Poster of PNG Lewas Match Fixtures

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