Customary Land should be protected at all costs.

That’s the main message behind the newly released song “Lukautim Graun”.

The song is a collaboration between Starbox Production and Act Now!

Act Now! is a community advocacy group that has highly spoken against Land Registration and the importance of protecting Customary Land.

Starbox Band Manager Willie Sarenga said the Production Company are humbled to work with Act Now! to produce this important song that promotes and protects customary land.

“We are glad to partner with ACT NOW! to promote this very important message.

“Music has the power if utilised well can create better understanding, awareness and hopefully create positive changes in our communities”, said Starbox Band Manager, Willie Sarenga.

In Papua New Guinea it is estimated that 97% of the country is still under customary land tenure and 85% of our population rely on customary land for all the essentials of life.

Act Now advocates that in Papua New Guinea, customary land supports sustainable livelihoods, a vibrant economy, social inclusion, community control and good governance.

“It is our most important national asset!”

Act Now! promotes that the concept of protecting customary land is a total contradiction to the westerners, foreign governments, big corporations and financial institutions and how they view customary land.

“In the West, land is simply viewed as an economic commodity or asset that can be bought and sold just like any other goods or services.

“All land has fixed boundaries and each parcel of land is owned and controlled by an individual person or company. Often the owner does not live on the land and one person can own many pieces of land in different places and even in different countries.

“It is a criminal offence to go onto someone else’s land without their permission and strict penalties including imprisonment can be applied.”

In the West all land is controlled by the same national laws and if disputes happen, they have to be settled by the courts.

This is all very different from customary land In Papua New Guinea.

“As the country turns 50 this year, its important for us to reflect on so many things and one of them is on the most important asset all of us have- customary land. Time to rethink and refocus on the management of our natural resources wisely for today’s and tomorrow’s future. We are only custodians. We are inspired and looking forward to more of similar engagements to promote very important messages”, said Sarenga.

The song can be found on the Act Now! Youtube channel.

The National Superannuation Fund (NASFUND) has recorded a net profit of K849 million for the year 2024.

The strong financial performance and positive return is credited to the contributions of 715 000 members and a Net Asset Value of K8.1 billion.

Following these results, the Trustee Board has declared an interest crediting rate of 11.75% for the 2024 financial year.

This translates to a distribution of over K839 million to members’ accounts this weekend, reinforcing the Fund’s commitment to Growth and increasing members’ savings despite economic challenges.

According to NASFUND, the positive financial outcomes were significantly influenced by the valuation gains of K487m, more than double the valuation gain of K180m last year.

It should be noted that K280m of this gain is from investment in BSP, which represents 59% of the overall valuation gains.

NASFUND Chairlady Tamzin Wardley said in a year that started with the devastations of Black Wednesday, the continuing Government cashflow crisis adversely impacting local business performance, and shadowed by ‘a cost-of-living crisis’ the team at Nasfund has ensured that returns to members remain steady.

“Despite no major projects commencing in country during the year, we have seen strong Growth from our existing membership with 56,874 new members and 191 new companies joining the Fund.

“Our crediting rate for 2024 of 11.75%, underscores our dedication to providing strong and stable returns to our members above CPI over a rolling five-year period, which on average is 7.2% compared to 5.1% CPI average over the same time during 2020 to 2024.

“This performance underlines our dedication to ensuring the financial well-being and Trust of our members, and we look forward to this positive trajectory in the future,” Wardley said.

Main highlights for FY2024 include:

• Cash income of K482 million compared to budget of K486 million (FY23: K485

million income)

• Valuation gain of K487 million (FY23: K180 million)

• Foreign currency loss of K5.7 million (FY23: 84.9 million gain)

• Expenses of K78 million compared to budget of K86 million (FY23: K75 million)

• Net profit before valuation of K336 million against Budget of K334 million

• Net profit after tax of K849 million (FY23: K596 million)

• Total assets of K8.19 billion (FY23: K7.13 billion)

• Net assets of K8.12 billion (FY23: K7.07 billion)

• Contributions received of K793 million, 12% higher than collected in 2023 (FY23:

K705 million)

• Member benefit payments of K591 million (FY23: K534 million)

• Total membership increased by 4% to 715,873 members (FY23: 688,169)

• Gross employer base increased by 5% to reach 3,776 employers (FY23: 3,585)

• Interest credited of K839 million (FY23: 584 million)

• Interim Crediting Rate paid to Exiting Members during the year of K13.7 million

Simberi Gold Company Limited has been ensuring their female employees spend more time with their newborns.

Though it is a small mine in PNG, 62 female employees have benefited from a Maternity Leave Policy since it’s inception in March 2019 at a cost of K6.8 million.

The company prides itself to be an employer of choice for women with an attractive maternity policy, that addresses the need for primary care givers by increasing leave up to one year four months and two weeks.

Female employees are entitled to four months and two weeks of paid maternity leave and are entitled to request for an additional 12 months of unpaid maternity leave. Under this policy, male employees are also entitled to paternity leave, which provides 15 days of fully paid leave to be taken within 12 months of the child’s birth.

This benefit ensures that female employees are retained after taking maternity leave and return to work.

Work coverage during their absence is considered and addressed prior to their leave, by taking onboard additional staff support.

In its commitment to building stronger communities, the Company has this policy for a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce.

While the company is improving its operational capacity in a transition period into the production of Sulphide in 2027, it recognises that women are equal participants in the development of its sulphide expansion.

SGCL Laboratory Supervisor Julie Patelo while representing female employees and speaking during the 8th of March International Women’s Day commemoration highlighted the ongoing silent struggles many women face alone and the importance of social groups to foster supportive environments for women to advance the progress on gender equality for women.

Another way of supporting this action to move forward is to have better policies for women in the mining industry and workplaces to boost women’s participation.

Work policies that are considerate of women’s need in the workplace are essential for a thriving and productive workforce.

“I have worked in other places, and they have five months paid maternity leave for females. The four months (18 weeks) paid leave and additional option for female employee to take 12 months unpaid maternity leave is reasonable in case the female encounters childbirth complications as long as her job is still secured it’s a fair go.” stated Julie Petelo

Work is now commencing for the Buin District level four hospital following the groundbreaking ceremony last week. 

The Buin Level 4 Hospital, the third of its kind in Papua New Guinea after those in Pomio and Bogia electorates, marks a significant milestone in the region’s healthcare development.

Member for South Bougainville and Minister for Information Communication and Technology, Timothy Masiu highlighted that thehospital’s establishment would not only improve healthcare services but trigger further impact projects that will drive economic and social growth in South Bougainville.

Minister Masiu stressed that land is a fundamental requirement for development and called on the people of South Bougainville to free up land to allow for key projects totake place.

He acknowledged that while land ownership is deeply rooted in cultural and traditional values, communities must see the long-term benefits of development.

“We must embrace change and allow for these essential developments that will pave the way for a better future for our people. 

Without land, we cannot build infrastructure, we cannot improve services, and we cannot progress as a nation,” Minister Masiu said.

He further emphasized that the hospital will be a catalyst for major development projects in

South Bougainville, including better roads, improved electricity access, and enhanced economic opportunities.

He urged landowners and communities to work together to ensure that the environment remains conducive to such progress.

Minister Masiu expressed his gratitude to the landowners for their cooperation and to all stakeholders involved in making the hospital project a reality.

“This project is not just about the government or the development partners – i t is about the

people. Our communities play a crucial role in ensuring that these projects succeed, and I thank you all for your commitment and support,” he stated.

He reiterated that the Buin District Level 4 Hospital represents a significant step forward for Bougainville, serving as a symbol of growth, resilience, and progress.

He called upon the people of South Bougainville to continue supporting initiatives that wil enhance their quality of life and contribute to the broader vision of an independent Bougainville.

The hospital is expected to be completed within the next 18 months, settinga new benchmark for healthcare services in South Bougainville and Bougainville as awhole.

In a landmark move towards sustainable energy solutions, the National Energy Authority (NEA) and the Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement waste-to-energy and bioenergy projects in Papua New Guinea. 

This initiative aims to transform oil palm waste into a renewable energy source, contributing to PNG’s growing efforts in energy diversification and environmental sustainability.

The agreement was officially signed by OPIC General Secretary Kepson Pupita and NEA Managing Director Ronald Meketa in the presence of key government officials, industry stakeholders, and representatives from both organisations. 

The signing marks a significant step forward in harnessing PNG’s agricultural waste for energy production, paving the way for innovative solutions in rural electrification and industrial energy needs.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, OPIC General Secretary Kepson Pupita highlighted the immense potential of the oil palm sector in contributing to energy generation.

“Papua New Guinea’s oil palm industry generates significant biomass waste, which, until now, has been underutilised. 

“Through this partnership with the National Energy Authority, we are unlocking a new opportunity—turning agricultural waste into a valuable energy source. 

“This will not only support rural electrification but also reduce environmental impact and create economic benefits for farmers,” Pupita stated.

The partnership is expected to support smallholder oil palm farmers by providing them with a sustainable outlet for their biomass waste, ensuring that agricultural byproducts contribute to the country’s energy needs instead of being discarded.

National Energy Authority Managing Director Ronald Meketa emphasised that bioenergy is a key part of PNG’s energy strategy, particularly as the country seeks to diversify its energy sources beyond fossil fuels.

“This MOU marks a crucial step in integrating bioenergy into our national energy policy. 

“Waste-to-energy technologies can significantly improve energy access, particularly in rural communities, while also addressing waste management issues in the oil palm sector,” Meketa said.

He further outlined the government’s commitment to renewable energy, stating that bioenergy projects align with PNG’s Vision 2050 and National Energy Policy, which prioritises clean, affordable, and reliable energy for all.

Waste-to-energy and bioenergy projects are seen as critical components in reducing PNG’s reliance on imported fuels, stabilising energy costs, and improving energy security. 

The initiative is also expected to contribute to PNG’s climate commitments, as converting organic waste into bioenergy helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The first phase of the collaboration will involve feasibility studies, assessing the technical and economic viability of waste-to-energy projects in major oil palm-growing regions such as West New Britain, Oro, Milne Bay, and New Ireland. 

Once implemented, these projects will power local communities, reduce dependence on diesel-powered generators, and support industrial growth.

Both OPIC and NEA reaffirmed their commitment to working together in developing sustainable energy solutions for PNG. 

The agreement sets the stage for further investment in biofuel, biogas, and other renewable energy projects, ensuring that PNG maximises its natural and agricultural resources for national development.

With this MOU in place, PNG is taking a significant step towards a cleaner, greener, and more energy-secure future, leveraging its agricultural strengths to drive sustainable energy transformation.

The South Bougainville District Development Authority (DDA) Board will increase funding for the South Bougainville School Fee Assistance Program from K1.2 million to K1.5 million.

The decision was reached on Monday 24th of February when the South Bougainville DDA Board Members sat for its first formal meeting for the year 2025.

The SBDDA Board’s commitment towards the South Bougainville School Fee Assistance Program is to ensure that students in South Bougainville receive the education they deserve.

With over 500 students currently pursuing higher education in tertiary institutions in the country, the SBDDA recognizes the growing need for additional support.

The increase in funding will enable the program to assist all eligible students, significantly alleviating the financial burden on families and facilitating access to higher education for all.

The chairman of the DDA Board and member for South Bougainville, Timothy Masiu stated, “Investing in education is vital for the development of our community.”

“By increasing the funding for the School Fee Assistance Program, we are making a substantial investment in the future leaders of South Bougainville.

“We must ensure that financial constraints do not hinder students from achieving their dreams, ” he said

Governor for Central Province, Rufina Peter is calling for the immediate suspension of the Connect PNG Program, citing escalating national security threats to the Papuan region.

In a statement, the Governor raises concerns regarding the unregulated expansion of road networks linking the Papuan Region to the Highlands and other provinces, which she argues will exacerbate lawlessness, illegal migration, and land grabs.

She fears it will be the greatest internal security threat facing Gulf, Central, Port Moresby, and the National Capital District (NCD).

Governor Peter emphasizes the need for comprehensive security measures to protect local communities and provincial law enforcement from the adverse effects of the program.

In her statement, Governor Peter outlined a series of immediate security measures that she believes are essential to safeguard the region.

The governor calls for the immediate setup of manned security posts between Gulf and Southern Highlands Provinces to effectively monitor and control the movement of individuals across borders.

She is also calling for the Halt of Expansion of Connect PNG. Governor Peter insists that the Connect PNG Program must be frozen until a comprehensive security risk assessment is conducted.

Another solution is a stronger Immigration and Law Enforcement Controls. The governor stated compulsory registration and vetting of all non-Papuan migrants entering Central and Gulf provinces, alongside strict enforcement of removal for illegal settlements to prevent uncontrolled land grabs.

She proposes the creation of a Papuan Security Task Force (PST) comprising security units from Central, Gulf, and NCD to monitor and address emerging threats.

Additionally, she has called for joint police-military operations to dismantle criminal networks infiltrating the region. In her statement, Governor Peter has called on all Papuan MPs and Governors to unite in demanding the suspension of the Connect PNG Prigram until these pressing security issues are adequately addressed.

“This is not just an infrastructure issue; it is a serious national security threat that must be prioritized now!” says Governor Peter.

The lack of district development plans and financial reports, a lack of public engagement, and a complete absence of oversight, raises serious concerns about the management of District Service Improvement Program (DSIP) and District Infrastructure Program (DIP) funds.

Community advocacy group Act Now says this is a huge factor contributing to PNG’s high corruption rating in the Corruption Perception Index figures.

New Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) figures, released on 11 February 2025 by Transparency International, highlight Papua New Guinea’s failure to deal with widespread corruption.

PNG is classified as having a ‘high perceived risk of corruption’ with ‘no meaningful progress’ in anti-corruption efforts.

PNG is the worst ranked country in the Pacific region and ranks 127th out of 180 countries globally.

PNG’s failure in addressing corruption challenges underscores the findings in a new report release by ACT NOW! on the performance of District Development Authorities (DDAs).

The report, which is based on an analysis of the data published on the DDA Watch website, reveals widespread failures in transparency, governance, and financial accountability among all 93 DDAs.

According to Cathy Tukne, Communications Coordinator for ACT NOW!, the findings are alarming and highlight a severe breakdown in governance at the district level.

She emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms, stating: “The lack of accountability and public engagement by DDAs is deeply concerning.

“With millions in public funds allocated annually, citizens deserve access to key documents and direct communication with their district leaders.

“If accountability measures are not enforced, the risk of mismanagement and corruption will only grow, further damaging PNG’s CPI score,” Tukne said.

Key Findings from the report include severe lack of public access to key district documents. The report found that only 7 out of 93 DDAs have made their 2023-2027 Five-Year Development Plans public.

“There are no existing public records for Annual Budgets, Acquittal Reports, Inspection Reports, or Audit Reports. There is also a huge failure to Submit Financial Acquittals & Audits.”

Following the report, ACT NOW! calls for the following immediate actions:

• Full Public Disclosure of District Documents – All DDAs must publish their 5-year development plans, annual budgets, financial acquittals, and inspection reports.

• Increased Audit Oversight – The Auditor General’s Office (AGO) must be adequately funded to conduct independent audits of all DDAs.

• Improved Public Engagement – Citizens should demand transparency from DDAs and actively engage with the DDA Watch platform.

• Strict Funding Conditions – The Department of Finance should withhold DSIP/DIP funds from districts failing to publish key financial documents.

• Leadership Accountability – The Ombudsman Commission must investigate and act against CEOs and DDA Board Chairs who fail to meet governance and reporting standards.

• Empowering Citizens – Communities must hold their district leaders accountable by actively engaging with DDA Watch and reporting governance failures.

• Strengthening Oversight Agencies – Institutions such as the Department of Implementation and Rural Development (DIRD) need enhanced monitoring capabilities to track DDA performance.

Nabuapaka village in the Kairuku District is among villages along the Central coast currently affected by the King Tides experienced these past few days.

On-going strong winds and high seas have forced about 60 people out of their homes.  

They are now struggling to find shelter and basic necessities.

The community has stepped in to help but many residents are frustrated with the slow response from the Government.

 “We didn’t have time to prepare,” said Allan Aiahu, a community representative.

“The water is rising so fast. We are losing everything.”

As families stay with relatives or in temporary shelters, the Central Provincial Disaster Office has been assessing the damage caused by the rising tides.

Officials have completed their evaluations and are now putting together a report to send to the national government.

This report will explain the needs of the displaced families and the seriousness of the situation.

According to John Iamo, a representative from the Central Provincial Disaster Office, “We are working hard to gather all the necessary information to make sure our report shows what is happening on the ground.”

Local leaders are calling for quick action to meet the urgent needs of those affected.

“We appreciate the community’s efforts to help each other, but we need more support to deal with this crisis,” said Allan Aiahu.

“Families are without food, clean water, and shelter.

 “We need support to move our houses and platforms. The village youths want to help, but they need funding for food and motivation. We also need tarpaulin for shelter, proper water tanks to catch rainwater, and food to get us through this time.”

Papua New Guinea experiences King Tides most often from November to March.

King Tides are exceptionally high tides that occur when the moon is closest to the earth (Perigee).

Weather conditions such as cyclones often intensify the effects of the high tides.

The ongoing threat of Climate Change that is affecting the weather patterns causes more destruction to people living along the coastlines like Nabuapaka.