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PNG’s District Development Funds: A Crisis of Secrecy

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A new report by the advocacy group ACT NOW! PNG reveals a systemic and widespread failure of transparency and accountability across Papua New Guinea’s 96 District Development Authorities (DDAs).

The second annual DDA Watch Report, covering the period from July 2024 to June 2025, paints a grim picture of “persistent secrecy” despite nearly K2 billion in annual government funding intended for service improvement and infrastructure grants.

The findings highlight a critical disconnect between rising public investment and a lack of basic oversight and public access to information.

According to Cathy Tukne, Information Coordinator for ACT NOW!, transparency should be non-negotiable.

“Without public plans, budgets, audits, and inspections, how can communities trust their development funds are well spent?”

The report’s key findings highlight a profound communication and accountability crisis:

Bar Graph documenting findings of District Development Authorities
  • Development Plans Remain Secret: While 37 DDAs have launched their five-year development plans (2022-2027), an increase of 16 from the previous year, a staggering 61% of districts still lack one. More concerning, only nine districts have made their plans publicly accessible. Geographically, the disparity is stark: Western Province and Bougainville boast 100% coverage, while entire provinces like Western Highlands, Madang, West Sepik, and Manus have no district plans at all.
  • Acquittal Reports Go Unpublished: Of the 72 DDAs that submitted their 2024 financial acquittals to the Department of Implementation and Rural Development (DIRD), only one, Talasea DDA in West New Britain, published its report. The report notes that 24 DDAs failed to submit their 2024 reports, and 35 are still outstanding from 2023.
  • Audits Are Non-Existent: For the second consecutive year, not a single audit report for any DDA was published. The Auditor-General’s Office cited “capacity constraints” as a key barrier, a finding that raises serious questions about the financial health and integrity of district-level spending.
  • Budgets Shrouded in Secrecy: The report found that 94% of districts are operating without a publicly disclosed budget. Only six DDAs announced a 2025 budget, and none of these were made public. This lack of transparency means citizens have no way of knowing how their tax money is being allocated or spent.
  • No Public Oversight on Projects: Despite DIRD’s mandate to monitor fund usage, no inspection reports on DSIP/DIP projects are publicly available. This failure to publish reports effectively shields project implementation from public scrutiny and accountability.

The report also detailed a communication crisis, with most DDAs being effectively unreachable by the public.

While 92 districts now have a named CEO, only seven have a working email address, and just 20 have a public phone number. The digital footprint is nearly non-existent, with only six DDAs maintaining an active website.

In response to these findings, ACT NOW! has issued a series of urgent “Calls to Action.” The group is advocating for the suspension of funds to districts without public plans or acquittals, and for action under the Leadership Code against officials who fail to publish required documents.

They also call for an expansion of the Auditor-General’s capacity to audit all 96 DDAs annually and for DIRD to step up its monitoring and reporting of projects.

The ACT NOW! report serves as a wake-up call, highlighting that despite increased funding, the foundations of good governance, transparency and accountability, are failing at the district level, undermining the potential for genuine development and citizen empowerment across Papua New Guinea.

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PNG Anti-Corruption Efforts Emphasized in Port Moresby March

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PNG CORE had four teams at the 15th Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption 2025, walking under the theme: “Integrity at the CORE: Strengthening PNG’s Resources for Generations”.

THE 2025 Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption, a powerful demonstration of collective resolve against graft, drew over 2,000 participants from 186 teams to Port Moresby on Sunday.

This annual event, spearheaded by Transparency International PNG (TIPNG), served as a vital platform for citizens, civil society, and the private sector to underscore the critical importance of integrity, transparency, and good governance in Papua New Guinea.

The Walk’s theme, “Integrity & Action Now“, resonated deeply throughout the diverse crowd, highlighting the urgent need for tangible steps in combating corruption.

Organizations like the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE), which fielded four teams, showcased their unwavering commitment to these principles.

Their banner, “Integrity at the CORE: Strengthening PNG’s Resources for Generations“, captured the sentiment that ethical leadership and responsible resource development are paramount for the nation’s future prosperity.

Men and women wearing blue shirts holding a banner during the walk of corruption
PNG CORE had four teams at the 15th Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption 2025,
walking under the theme: “Integrity at the CORE: Strengthening PNG’s Resources for Generations”.

This highly visible civic movement plays a crucial role in fostering public awareness and galvanizing collective action against corruption in all its forms.

Participants, including PNG CORE, emphasized the shared responsibility of promoting accountability and safeguarding national wealth for future generations.

The sheer numbers involved in the walk sent a clear message: that a significant portion of PNG society is united in its stance against corrupt practices.

Mrs. Pansy Taueni-Sialis, Chief Operating Officer of PNG CORE, articulated the core message of the event, echoing TIPNG Chair Peter Aitsi’s sentiments.

“Saying no to corruption starts with us and is reflected through our actions,” Taueni-Sialis stated, emphasizing the personal commitment required from every individual.

She highlighted the broad participation, including family members and students, as a testament to the growing understanding and response to the call for a corruption-free Papua New Guinea.

Beyond the symbolic march, the event also encouraged community engagement, with PNG CORE sponsoring the “Best Dressed School Team” category, won by Kopkop Lower Secondary School. This initiative further reinforced the importance of instilling values of integrity and accountability from a young age.

Kids who took part in the walk against corruption wearing white tshirts and holding blue goodie bags they won for being the best dressed group.
Students of Kopkop College with their PNG CORE merchandise bags after winning the award
for Best Dressed -School.

The enduring leadership of TIPNG in fostering a culture of accountability and civic engagement was widely commended. The 2025 Walk Against Corruption served as a powerful reminder that sustained efforts, collaborative partnerships, and a unified voice are essential in upholding the values of integrity, transparency, and sustainable development for the betterment of Papua New Guinea.

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Second Chance, Bright Futures: Western Province Celebrates Hundreds of Educational Triumphs

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Western Province Graduates

In a region known for its vast landscapes and tight-knit communities, a wave of educational achievement is being celebrated. Over 840 individuals in the Fly River area of Western Province have successfully advanced or graduated through the Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) program, marking a significant milestone for the province.

This achievement, made possible through a collaborative effort funded by the Sustainable Development Program (SDP) and implemented by the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF), in partnership with the Western Province Division of Education, is opening doors for people seeking a second chance at education in some of Papua New Guinea’s most remote locales.

Western Province Graduation Class

Among the many success stories, the journey of Marilyn Duwaba shines brightly.

A dedicated primary school teacher and a busy single mother of three in Kiunga, Marilyn recently celebrated a personal triumph: upgrading her Grade 12 results through FODE.

Over two decades after her initial schooling, Marilyn felt compelled to improve her GPA to meet new government standards for educators. The flexible nature of the FODE program allowed her to pursue this goal while continuing her vital work in the classroom.

Marilyn’s dedication culminated in a remarkable achievement in 2024; not only did she improve her GPA, but she was also recognized as the Dux of her class.

Reflecting on her success, Marilyn had this to say, “I was so excited that my effort had paid off. I feel that with this kind of opportunity in the community, we don’t have to stay at the same level; we can continue to advance ourselves and provide good opportunities for our families and contribute to our communities as well.”

Marilyn Duwaba at her Graduation in Western Province
Marilyn Duwaba, Grade 12 Dux Student at Western Outreach FODE (left)

Driven by her own experience, Marilyn is now encouraging others who may be hesitant to return to education.

“You don’t stop because it does not turn out right the first time,” she urged.

“If you want to achieve something then you keep going. Education does not end with a certain grade, we can keep upgrading ourselves so we can provide a better community for ourselves and our families.”

The graduation celebrations across Western Province underscored the strength of the partnerships driving this progress.

Representatives from local government, SDP, and KTF joined the festivities, including Western Provincial Education Advisor Mr. Charlie Buia, SDP Director of Education Dr. Brad Shaw, KTF CEO Dr. Genevieve Nelson, and KTF Head of Education Ms. Martha Bentley.

This initiative, fueled by the vision of SDP’s Gutpela Community Strategy 2025-2030, is forging a path towards a brighter future for Western Province.

Through the combined efforts of SDP, KTF, FODE, and the Western Provincial Division of Education, a growing number of empowered individuals are gaining the skills and qualifications needed to pursue employment and further education, building a stronger and more prosperous community for all.

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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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Operation Render Safe to commence in East New Britain

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Operation Render Safe

A team lead by the Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea is now in East New Britain Province to commence planning and preparations for Operation Render Safe.

The team includes Commissioner John Feakes and Defense Adviser, Colonel Travis Gordon together with an Australian Defense Force (ADF) team.

The visit is the first in a series to the province as the ADF works with the Provincial Disaster Centre, PNGDF and the RPNGC to start the planning and preparations for Operation Render Safe.

For two decades Australia has been helping Pacific countries with the safe removal of bombs and small munitions under Operation Render Safe.

At the Ministerial Forum in June 2024, PNG Ministers welcomed Australia’s conduct of Operation Render Safe in East New Britain.

Operation Render Safe in East New Britain
Operation Render Safe in East New Britain

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) from WWII is a concern for communities across PNG.

In East New Britain the Provincial Disaster Office has multiple received reports of deteriorated bombs and small munitions discovered in the jungle or unearthed as people clear land for development.

Lieutenant Henry Beri, officer in charge of the PNGDF EOD said “the PNGDF has been working with East New Britain to remove as many munitions as we can, but we need help.”

There is too much for the PNGDF to deal with alone and extra skills and equipment are required to deal with some discoveries such as a very large bomb that washed ashore and is too heavy to move.

“My team are looking forward to working with the ADF to develop our skills.”

In addition to visiting sites where unexploded ordnance has been found, the ADF team, accompanied by LEUT Henry Beri, met with the Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector, Felix Nebanat and CEO of the Provincial Health Authority, Dr Apo Yap.

The ADF will continue to work closely with the PNGDF, RPNGC and authorities in East New Britain to develop and agree a plan for the safe removal of bombs and small munitions.

It is important not to touch or move any suspected bombs and small munitions like bullets.

Communities in East New Britain are encouraged to leave them in place and report the location to the Provincial Disaster Center, located at the Fire Station in Kokopo.

The team was welcomed by the Governor Michael Marum and Provincial Administrator Levi Mano.

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Sexual Health Awareness for June Valley Community

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A community engagement program by the June Valley youths and Marie Stopes PNG saw the successful treatment of ten (10) Sexually Transmitted Infections and nine (9) Family Planning Treatment.

The visit to the June Valley community was an initiated by the Doma Youths Association, a community advocacy group in Tokarara, Port Moresby.

Chairman of Doma Youths Association, Pia Kak said June Valley is a fast growing community and it was important to bring in family health organizations such as Marie Stopes to address unplanned pregnancies and sexual health through awareness and treatment.

He said a lot of youths who are sexually active do not know where or whom to reach out for sexual health information or treatment.

People gathered at a field for sexual health awareness program.
June Valley community congregate for sexual health awareness program.

“Bringing Marie Stopes here we hope to address the stigma in getting family planning for youths who are sexually active. While we don’t encourage teenage sex, it is important that the community knows these services are available.”

Marie Stops Community Based Mobilizer, Bapi Timothy said these awareness programs are provided free of charge in communities throughout the country. He said it only needs the community leaders to reach out to them.

“Our mother’s, sisters and wives are vulnerable to child birth deaths because there isn’t enough spacing, and not enough awareness on basic family planning methods and also having too many children which makes our mothers sisters and wives face child birth complications.

Youths were also advised to seek medical treatment at the earliest when they experience discomfort or discharge at the genitalia.

Mr Kak further thanked the 19 people that were screened by Marie Stopes medical team and treated.

“It is a milestone achievement for Doma Youths Association for partnering with one of the vital service providers in the country,” said Kak.

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IOM and USAID deliver rain catchment materials in Highlands

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IOM

THE International Organization for Migration or IOM has delivered rainwater catchment installation materials to the Kumbal Community in Jiwaka province.

These materials were generously funded by the United States Agency for International Development Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA), and was welcomed by the Kumbal community, located at the border of Simbu and Jiwaka provinces, and home to approximately 10,000 people from six council wards.

With the population in the area, the accessibility of water has been an issue, especially for women, children, and the elderly, which has resulted in the collection of drinking water from the muddy Waghi river and nearby creeks.

IOM’s interventions will alleviate water scarcity, and provide quality water, which is very much needed by these communities.

Jiwaka Provincial Disaster Coordinator, John Kupul, acknowledged USAID’s funding assistance, and thanked IOM for being an active partner working closely with his Jiwaka Provincial Administration to improve the resilience of local communities.

“All thanks to the people of America through USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance for this critical assistance to improve community access to safe drinking water. This has been a need for the people of Kumbal,” said Kambiye Tolak, the Councillor for Kumbal Ward 2.

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Community Watch Initiative

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Doma Youths Association

by Frank Mogona

Youths at June Valley have initiated a neighborhood watch program aimed at creating and maintaining a safe community.

The Doma Youth Association began this program in their Port Moresby community on Monday with the promise to continue the initiative.

Association chairman, Pia Kak told Inside PNG that he wants to create avenues where youths can feel a part of.

“The association will focus on how to create a safe avenue for women and children, and also to continue to provide cleaning services in the community like grass cutting and sweeping,” Kak said.

Doma Youth Association members of June Valley taking part in neighborhood clean-up.

The Doma Youth Association is made up of young men and women who are unemployed and others who are seeking further education opportunities.

He added that had seen enough youths causing problems in their own community, hence that is the reason he came up with the idea of creating an association.

The Doma Youth Association is registered with the Investment Promotion Authorities (IPA) and can be engaged for general services like drainage cleaning and other clean-a-ton programs.

“I want to improve this community by providing the most appropriate action in the community and also to gain trust so the people can engage Doma youth’s in the near future for any general work,” Kak said.

Related: https://insidepng.com/tokarara-youth-embrace-city-watch-project/

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