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“Share a Coke” Returns to Papua New Guinea

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Share a coke campaign

Coca-Cola has announced the return of its “Share a Coke” campaign in Papua New Guinea, offering consumers the chance to find their names and nicknames on bottles and cans of the popular soft drink.

The campaign, which previously saw success globally, allows individuals to find Coca-Cola products featuring a wide array of names.

This iteration in PNG includes almost 85 options on Coca-Cola Original Taste, ranging from common names such as ‘Michael’, ‘Grace’, ‘Susan’, ‘Nigel’, ‘Serah’, and ‘Jack’, to local group terms like ‘Wantok’, ‘Bestie’, ‘Susa’, and ‘Olgeta’.

These specially labelled products will be available for a limited time at major supermarkets and food retailers nationwide.

In addition to the pre-printed names, Coca-Cola will also be hosting over 50 personalization pop-up stations across the country starting from June 21st. These stations will allow consumers to create their own personalized Coca-Cola cans.

Speaking about the initiative, Rachel Miryam Nainggolan, Senior Brand Manager, Frontline Marketing – Coca-Cola Papua New Guinea said “Share a Coke” is not just about finding your name on a bottle or can; it’s about creating moments of joy and connection.

“We’re thrilled to bring this exciting campaign back to Papua New Guinea, giving everyone a chance to share special moments with their friends and family. It’s all about celebrating the people who make our lives magical.”

Tim Solly, Sales and Commercial Director, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, added, Share a Coke is all about bringing people together and we can’t wait to bring the Share a Coke experience on the road.

“We’ll be visiting universities, shopping centers, and cultural shows/events across the country so we connect with as many people as possible to Share a Coke with.”

The “Share a Coke” campaign is expected to run for a limited period, encouraging consumers to look out for personalized bottles and cans in stores and to visit the upcoming pop-up personalization stations.

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News

Equal Support Boosts PNG’s National Rugby League Teams

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Group Photo- L-R Kumul Rep Robert Mathias, Digcel PNG Senior VP and Cheif Sales officer Lorna McPherson, Digicel CEO Tarik Boduiaf, PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina, Santos PNG Orchids Chair Celestine Ove

Papua New Guinea’s national Rugby League teams, the Kumuls and the Orchids have received a significant boost with the renewal of sponsorship, notably featuring equal financial support for both squads.

This development promises to elevate the profile and resources available to the Orchids, bringing them on par with the traditionally more prominent Kumuls.

The move signifies a growing emphasis on gender equality within Papua New Guinean sports.

While the Kumuls have long been a source of national pride, the Orchids have consistently demonstrated passion and determination.

The equal sponsorship aims to provide the women’s team with access to improved training facilities and greater visibility, fostering the growth of women’s rugby league in the PNG.

“We are proud to stand behind our national teams, the PNG Kumuls and PNG Orchids,” said Tarik Boudiaf, the CEO of Digicel PNG.

“This support is an investment in empowerment, growth, and opportunity for all our athletes.”

Digcel PNG Senior VP and Chief Sales officer Lorna McPherson shows PNG Media the Digicel branding on the back of PNG LNG Kumul Jersey. Beside her is Digicel CEO Tarik Boduiaf.
Digcel PNG Senior VP and Chief Sales officer Lorna McPherson shows PNG Media the Digicel branding on the back of PNG LNG Kumul Jersey that is one part of the sponsorship. Beside her is Digicel CEO Tarik Boduiaf.

Rugby League holds a special place in Papua New Guinea, and this renewed commitment to both national teams underscores the importance of the sport across the country.

The equal backing is expected to inspire future generations of both male and female athletes.

For over a decade, there has been support for Rugby League at various levels, including grassroots and the Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup.

This latest development further strengthens the foundation for the sport’s continued growth and success on the international stage for both the men’s and women’s national teams.

“By sharing our support equally, we’re helping to level the playing field and provide the necessary support for our female athletes alongside their male counterparts,” said Lorna McPherson, Senior Vice President of Digicel PNG.

“We wish both the PNG Kumuls and PNG Orchids every success as they represent our nation.”

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Agriculture

Sialum Taro Farmers Eager to Participate in Commercial Farming

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Accessibility to market is still a major demoralizing factor for farmers in the rural areas to go commercial.

But villagers from Rebafu, one of the remotest parts of Sialum LLG, of Tewai Siasi District, Morobe Province is willing to work with the National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) to find a way forward to supply local Taro to the export market.

Susan Emunare Geoba, from Rebafu paid a visit to the National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) on Wednesday (22/05/25) after hearing about NARI’s interests in Taro.

She managed to bring with her, three samples, including a Yam.

From her village in Rebafu, it took her a day of walking, to reach the coast before boarding a ship to Lae.

“For the villagers, it takes about 5 to 6 hours to walk to the coast. I reside in Lae so I don’t have the same stamina to walk that fast,” giggled Susan, but added she enjoys going to the village for, free and an abundance of fresh produce.

Susan proudly boasts of the size of Taro in her village, making reference to the height of a 50cm cooking pot and about 20cm wide.

“The Taro is so heavy I managed to bring only three samples,” proudly exclaimed Susan, despite the burden of weight.

After hearing about NARI’s partnership with local Taro exporters, Susan initiated discussions with her family.

“Taro is significant in our culture. It signifies wealth and earns respect among villagers. Taro has great value in customary obligations such as Pride Price.

“Every household has a taro garden, so we have a surplus. We are willing to work with NARI to see how we can expand on the production and find a cost-effective means to transport the taro out.

“The major issues we have are road infrastructure, transport, and freight costs,” Susan optimistically revealed.

She was however glad to have an audience with the Director General of NARI Dr Nelson Simbiken and invited NARI to visit Benafu village during the peak of harvest between August and September.

Dr Simbiken acknowledged that Morobe grows some of the best taro species in the country including NARI’s Taro, NT1 through NT7.

He echoed similar concerns of road infrastructure, transport, and freight as major hindrance for commercialisation in rural areas.

“People are excited now and they want to supply taro but an issue for us is freight excess.

We want to come up with a freight subsidy scheme for Morobe Province so that we can bring taro from the outskirts of Morobe.

“We are expecting some funding assistance from the government, for freight. Once that

happens, we can be able to assist farmers like Susan who will help to meet the supply

demand,” said Simbiken.

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News

K258,000 Raised at Trukai Fun Run Auction

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Top 5 Bidders, from left,International Training Institute, PNG IPA,Brands Pacific,IBS University, & Sir Brian Bell Foundation

The Port Moresby business community has stepped up in a big way to support Papua New Guinea’s athletes, raising a significant K258,000 at the Trukai Fun Run Auction held on Friday.

The event saw 17,200 Trukai Fun Run shirts sold, with all proceeds going towards funding Team PNG’s participation in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.

The auction serves as a key fundraiser ahead of the annual Trukai Fun Run, this year themed “Running Through History,” celebrating PNG’s 50 years of independence through the unifying power of sport.

Team PNG Chef de Mission to Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo, expressed his sincere gratitude, particularly to the major sponsor, Trukai Industries Limited, and the top five bidding organizations.

“I would like to extend my warmest gratitude towards the major sponsor, Trukai Industries Limited for their unwavering support,” said Mr. Karo.

“Your contributions will play a crucial role in this year’s Pacific Mini Games, we are grateful for your commitment towards Team PNG. Your generosity is truly inspiring and gives us the motivation to continue our efforts to provide the best possible launchpad for our Team PNG athletes.”

Echoing this appreciation, Head of Trukai Industries, Mr. Andrew Grace, acknowledged the strong commitment from the business sector.

“We are eagerly looking forward to working closely with the PNG Olympic Committee to make this year’s Trukai Fun Run another truly memorable event,” Mr. Grace stated.

He also highlighted the enduring partnership between Trukai and the PNGOC, saying, “For 25 years, the partnership between Trukai Industries and the PNG Olympic Committee has stood strong, as a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to Team PNG and the incredible unifying power of sports within our nation.”

He reminded everyone to mark their calendars for June 22nd, as the event is anticipated to be bigger, better, and even safer for everyone to participate in this year.

The funds raised will be crucial in supporting Team PNG’s journey to Palau.

Many of the purchased t-shirts will also be donated to local schools.

The success of the Port Moresby auction builds anticipation for the next auction in Lae on June 13th and the main Trukai Fun Run event scheduled for June 22nd.

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News

Devastation Strikes Major Fish Farm in Imbonggu District

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Imbonggu Fish farm devastation

Imbonggu district in the Southern Highlands province has been struck by a natural disaster that has left the local community in shock.

Heavy rainfall, compounded by a small earthquake, has wreaked havoc on one of the largest inland fish farms in the Imbonggu area, which was home to an impressive six ponds, including one nearing completion.

Each pond measured 30 meters by 30 meters and housed approximately fifty thousand super tilapia, a vital resource for the community.

Mr. Anjo, the owner of the farm, expressed his devastation upon witnessing the extensive damage caused by the landslide and torrential rains.

“It’s heartbreaking to see what has happened to my farm,” he said, visibly shaken.

Imbonggu Fish Farm Devastation
Imbonggu Fish Farm Devastation
Imbonggu Fish Farm Devastation

The fish farm has not only served as a source of income for Mr. Anjo’s family but has also played a crucial role in supporting unemployed youths in the area.

Furthermore, it has contributed significantly to reducing malnutrition among women and children in the community by providing a steady supply of nutritious fish.

The loss of this vital resource has raised concerns about the future. Mr. Anjo, however, is determined to rebuild.

He stated, “I will be looking for ways to restore my farm, as it is essential for the livelihoods of many in our community.”

Despite the challenges ahead, Mr. Anjo’s resilience embodies the spirit of a community that has always found ways to overcome adversity.

As the community rallies around Mr. Anjo in his time of need, the hope remains that, through collaboration and support, the fish farm can be restored to its former glory, continuing its legacy of sustenance and empowerment.

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News

Fish Farmers in Imbonggu Call for More Training

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Inland Fish Farming is becoming popular in the Highlands Region of Papua New Guinea with many choosing fish as an alternate source of protein aside from the usual pork or lamb.

With an increase in demand, many villagers are also venturing into the business.

Recognizing the interest, the National Fisheries Authority officers from the Kavieng Training College recently completed a two-week training on inland fish farming in Kou Village in Imbonggu, Southern Highlands Province.

James Anjo, fish farmer, standing in front of the NFA fish farm training banner.
James Anjo, Fish farmer and Chairman of Imbonggu Fish Farmers Association.

James Anjo is one of the farmers. He is also the Chairman of the Imbonggu Fish Farmers Association.

Anjo’s motivation for forming the group stemmed from the lack of financial assistance and sustainable income sources in their village.

As a fully registered organization, the Imbonggu Fish Farmers group aims to secure funding from the Southern Highlands Provincial Government and the Imbonggu District Development Authority through the Services Improvement Program Funds (SIPs).

As the newly appointed chairman of Imbonggu Fish Farmers, James Anjo has gained the support of the Imbonggu District Council President, who serves as his deputy chairman.

With hundreds of other fish farmers expressing interest in future training sessions, the NFA trainers have already compiled a list of new trainees for potential programs.

The demand for additional training underscores the enthusiasm and commitment of local residents towards enhancing their skills in fish farming.

Through the collective efforts of the group and ongoing collaboration with relevant agencies, Anjo and his fellow fish farmers are determined to secure the necessary resources to further develop their farming practices and contribute to the economic growth of their community.

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News

International Market Exposure for Village Cocoa Farmer

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Balthazar Winjowa has never been more optimistic about his family’s future then today.

After undergoing training with the EU-STREIT PNG Programme to revive cocoa in Wanwara Village of the Turubu LLG in East Sepik Province, where he comes from, the 33 year-old says he’s life has changed completely.

Along side the materials that the EU-STREIT PNG provided, Baltazar was also privileged to undergo bud grafting training, learned proper pruning techniques and studied cocoa fermentation and processing.

“I learned how to conduct pruning and bud grafting,” he explains.
“I now train other farmers in my Village and show them how to manage their cocoa blocks.”

The training and tools started paying off.

In the first half of this year alone, Baltazar harvested 7,300 kilograms of wet beans which yielded around forty bags of dried beans.

He says that the trees just started bearing fruit and he is seeing production increase.

“With the support from STREIT, we are harvesting beans with no Cocoa Pod Borer (CPB) infestation,” He says.

The improved quality of Baltazar’s cocoa has opened new doors for him and his fellow farmers.

With the support of the programme, he had the chance to send his cocoa beans to the Queen Emma Chocolate factory in Port Moresby where they were evaluated for quality.

“STREIT came to my Village and sent samples of my cocoa to Queen Emma. I got a WhatsApp message on my phone saying that I have high-quality cocoa,” he recalls with pride.

His success also led to an opportunity to meet an Overseas buyer from New Zealand.

With the help from STREIT, Baltazar was able to attend a factory presentation with Queen Emma Chocolate, where he met the lady buyer from New Zealand.

“She said if I pass the quality standard, she will visit my Village to sign a contract to supply one tonne of dried cocoa beans per year,” he says.

For Baltazar, this journey has transformed not only his business, but also his family life.

With the money that he earned from cocoa, he has been able to provide more for his family.

His eldest daughter is currently doing grade 9 at Yarapos Secondary School, and Baltazar is committed more to supporting her education.

“My formal education stopped at grade 8 and my wife went as far as grade 9 because of school fee problems,” says Baltazar.

He wants his daughter to go to a business college and return back to manage their cocoa farming as a business.

With the support of his wife, Baltazar is looking ahead to plan big for his future with his cocoa farming business.

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News

Eliseo Group Opens New Shop in Gerehu

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Eliseo Group of Companies launched the opening of their new shopping center today in the suburb of Gerehu in the nation’s capital, Port Moresby.

This now brings total number of shops operated by Eliseo Group to eight.

Eliseo Group of Companies, managing director Max Li said, Eliseo has a good reputation in the country and also provided job opportunities for Papua New Guinean locals spanning over 10 years since its establishment at the Gordon suburb in Port Moresby.

Today mark’s a another milestone achievement for Eliseo for adding a another figure to their tally bringing the total to eight, it is through the commitment and hard work of the Papua New Guinean workers, Li said.

He said, the company’s aim is to give a second chance to the people of Papua New Guinea by providing them employment opportunities and help make a living in the city.

He added that Eliseo shops are also avenues for students to do part-time jobs to gain a bit of work experience during school holidays.

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Pope Francis emphasizes equal sharing of resources

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Pope Francis emphasize equal sharing of resources

Papua New Guinea is blessed with an abundance of natural resources, a proclamation even Pope Francis acknowledges.

But Papua New Guinea is also challenged with socio-economic developments that do not reach the rural majority despite the presence of numerous extractive industries.

The Pontiff in his remarks this morning at the APEC Haus said Papua New Guinea besides consisting of islands and languages, is also rich in natural resources.

“These goods are destined by God for the entire community.

“Even if outside experts and large international companies must be involved in the harnessing of these resources, it is only right that the needs of local people are given due consideration when distributing the proceeds and employing workers, to improve their living conditions.

“These environmental and cultural treasures represent at the same time a great responsibility, because they require everyone, civil authorities and all citizens, to promote initiatives that develop natural and human resources in a sustainable and equitable manner,” said Pope Francis.

Governor General, Sir Bob Dadae in acknowledging the work of the Catholic Church in the country also requested the Pope in his capacity as a world leader to help advocate on Climate Change and its impacts that is felt by small island nations like PNG.

“Climate change is real and is affecting the lives of our people in the remote Islands of Papua New Guinea.

“Across the Pacific, islands are sinking and are affected and displaced.

“We seek your prayers and support for global action and advocacy on climate change, we need to let the world know that there is no more time.

“What the world needs is commitment for action,” Sir Bob said.

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Coca-Cola PNG Partners with Marvel for Limited Edition Cans and Prizes

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Coca Cola x Marvel brand

This August, Coca-Cola Papua New Guinea is joining forces with Marvel to release ‘Coca-Cola x Marvel: The Heroes’ limited edition cans, offering fans the chance to win special prizes.

“Coca-Cola’s long-standing relationship with Disney, spanning over 60 years, continues with this collaboration”, said Tim Solly- Sales Commercial Director – Coca Cola Euro Pacific.

He said “to celebrate this partnership, CCA PNG has launched a campaign called ‘The Hero’s Campaign’”.

The campaign includes a new TV commercial that will be featured on Coca-Cola PNG‘s Facebook page and aims to provide a unique consumer experience.

Tim Solly- Sales and Commercial Director, Coca-Cola PNG standing next to an image of Marvel Superhero, Deadpool.
Tim Solly- Sales and Commercial Director, CCA PNG standing next to an image of Marvel Superhero, Deadpool. [[Photo: Allan Terry/Inside PNG]]

Starting on the 20th of July, 2024 onwards, Coca-Cola and Marvel fans can purchase specially designed limited-edition Coca-Cola Classic cans featuring Marvel characters Deadpool, Wolverine, Daredevil, and Elektra.

Senior Brand Manager, The Coca-Cola Company, Rachel Nainggolan introduced how Coca-Cola customers can be part of this campaign;

“Fans are invited to form teams of four, collect all four special edition cans, take a group selfie, and share it on Facebook while tagging Coca-Cola PNG, this will enter them into a draw to win tickets to an exclusive screening of the new Deadpool & Wolverine movie on September 28, 2024”.

She added that winners from outside Port Moresby will have their accommodations and airfare covered.

Rachel Nainggolan - Senior Brand Manager, CCA PNG wearing a red dress and holding a mic on a red stage at the Coca-Cola PNG premier of Deadpool.
Rachel Nainggolan – Senior Brand Manager, CCA PNG. [[Photo: Allan Terry/InsidePNG]]

Additionally, the Coca-Cola x Marvel Truck will travel across PNG’s four major regions, offering games, photo opportunities, live music, and various surprises.

Customers who purchase two cans of Coca-Cola can present their receipt to participate in games and win official Coca-Cola x Marvel merchandise.

Rachel Nainggolan said, “Our goal at Coca-Cola is to create moments of happiness and unity. This collaboration with Marvel allows us to bring the community together in new and enjoyable ways.”

The Coca-Cola x Marvel: The Heroes limited edition cans are now available in stores across Papua New Guinea.

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