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600-Watt Power Station

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Tree Kangaroo Conservation

The acquisition of a 600-watt Port Power Station by the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program (TKCP) is predicted to enhance operational capabilities for Conservation Liaison Officers and Rangers on patrols.

Dillian Nason, TKCP’s Research and Monitoring Coordinator, said the far-reaching benefits of this new equipment play a pivotal role in ensuring data consistency, a critical aspect for the success of the SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool) program.

“This equipment marks a significant leap forward for TKCP’s conservation and research efforts. It prolongs the lifespan of field equipment, enabling extended data collection periods, which is vital for scientific research,” said Nason.

The Port Power Station ensures a reliable power source for phones, laptops, devices like Blackview, cameras, and various tools used by Conservation Liaison Officers.

Previously, TKCP used Goal Zero stations, but it was too costly and depended on other power sources.
TKCP then relied on solar-generated power to charge essential devices and allowed officers to operate in remote or off-grid locations where there was no traditional power source.

However, TKCP experienced operational delays and that hindered the efficiency of their conservation efforts. Hence with the aquisition of the 600-watt port power station, TKCP aims to continue its efforts towards the conservation of tree kangeroos.

Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program Associate Director, Modi Pontio says the conservation program is committed to the long-term survival of tree kangaroos and their habitats.

“We work towards achieving this through research, community engagement, habitat protection, and conservation education. We envision a future where tree kangaroos thrive in the wild. And their habitats are protected and well-managed. Our aim is to achieve this by fostering a sustainable coexistence between communities and wildlife. Ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystem health”, Pontio explains.

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News

POM Out of Water Supply

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Water Supply

Innocent Port Moresby residents have been without water supply for at least 14 hours today (Tuesday, 3rd of October). This comes after the main supply into the city was shut down by Koiari Landowners.

Angry landowners locked gates into the main entrance of the Hydropower Station at Rouna 2, and put out a massive banner that read, “No Negotiation, Pay Our K15 million and we release Water & Power”.

Their grievance is due to outstanding royalty payments. They claim the government promised to pay 18 days ago but is yet to do so.

Hiri-Koiari MP, Keith Iduhu said a day before the 48th PNG Independence, the landowners made their initial demand for their outstanding payment, and if unaddressed, they threatened to shut water and power to the city.

“As a show of good faith, the landowners agreed not to shutdown the Rouna 2 Hydropower Station. With the hope that their issue will be resolved. Immediately after I met with the landowners, I brought it to the attention of our Government. Particularly the Prime Minister and Treasurer,” said Iduhu.

During the day today, PNG Power officers went to the site to negotiate with the landowners. They refused to talk.

“I resonate with the frustrations of our landowners. As it is simply not good enough that their payment has not been fulfilled over the years, and just recently,” said Iduhu.

Meanwhile in Parliament today, Prime Minister James Marape said while the Government is taking their concerns seriously the Koiari landowners must clarify the recipient(s) of the initial K5 million disbursement.

In demonstrating this commitment, Marape announced the immediate release of K5 million from the Treasury.

Marape highlighted the need for the Treasury and Finance departments, to meticulously assess the remaining K10 million claim, before disbursing the funds.
 
This cautious approach stems from past instances, where funds were distributed amongst Koiari landowners, but only a selected few benefited, leaving the majority without compensation.
 
Marape made an additional announcement of a new structure. Where Koiari Landowners will become 20 percent beneficiaries of water resources from their land. This includes PNG Water assuming a 60 percent stake. Whilst Central and National Capital District governments will each hold a 10 percent stake.
 
Prime Minister Marape underscored that this innovative approach represents a significant departure from previous practices. As it is aimed at ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources among the Koiari landowners.
 
Meanwhile, the steps taken by landowners to address the temporary shut down of water supply and electricity services are outlined by the local MP. They include:

  • A letter to Prime Minister James Marape has been drafted. Calling for the Government to fulfill their promise and commitment to the landowners.
  • Constant communication with local leaders to ensure the protest remains peaceful and cordial.
  • Follow up with Treasurer on the status of their payment, and a realistic timeframe of when they can make payment.
  • Drafting new methods for landowner payment for the future.
The widely circulated video on social media of a spokesperson airing the Koiari landowners demands.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/clean-electrification-supply/

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News

Update on Magi Accident

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Magi Accident

Further investigation into the fatal car accident on Magi Highway has revealed that the individual associated with the police jacket found at the scene is an officer attached to the media unit of the Police Headquarters.

Central Police Commander, Laimo Asi has established contact with the officer, who has agreed to surrender to the Central Police Commander’s office tomorrow morning (2nd, October).

Central PPC Laimo Asi (centre) attending to Gaire Village elders as they voice their grievances in the wake of the tragic accident.

The revelation of the officer’s involvement has added a new dimension to the ongoing investigation. It raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the accident and the responsibility of the officer in question.

Commander Asi expressed his commitment to resolving the matter diligently and ensuring a transparent investigation.

The surrender of the officer will allow for further questioning and necessary legal procedures to take place.

Magi Accident
The makeshift road block today, which was later removed (at 2:30pm) by villagers, after swift intervention by Central Police.

Earlier: https://insidepng.com/accident-on-maggi-highway/

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News

Momase Catholic Women’s SME Convention

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Momase Catholic Women's SME

In a vibrant celebration of creativity and commerce, more than 2,000 dynamic women descended upon Lae for the week-long Momase Catholic Women’s SME Convention that culminated in a spectacular finale last week.

Hailing from the five spirited Catholic Dioceses of Vanimo, Aitape, Wewak, Madang, and Lae, these women brought with them the heart and soul of their rural communities. Infusing the convention with a contagious energy that could rival any urban center.

President of the Lae Catholic Women’s Association, Maryanne Gali, couldn’t contain her excitement. Remarking on the surge in attendance compared to the last convivial gathering in Vanimo back in 2021.

This impressive event, held biannually, has clearly become a hot ticket for these enterprising women.

Stepping into the colorful marketplace, one was greeted by a mesmerizing array of handcrafted wonders—arts and crafts, bilums, traditional attire, and the coveted meri blouses.

Momase Catholic Women's SME

These women weren’t here just for the sun and fun. They were on a mission to seek out new markets for their prized creations.

The organizers, with hearts as big as their ambitions, aimed to provide a platform for these talented artisans. To showcase their masterpieces. It’s no secret that navigating the labyrinth of SME’s in the country is no easy feat, and it’s often a one-woman show.
Yet, amidst the lively chatter and bustling stalls, one couldn’t help but sense a shared determination.

Momase Catholic Women's SME
Momase Catholic Women's SME

These women weren’t looking for handouts; they craved the opportunity to stand on their own two feet.
The Catholic Dioceses recognized this fervor. Initiating the convention to empower women with self-reliance, teaching them not to lean too heavily on the government.

Linda Wanga, a vivacious vendor from Roma Parish in Maprik District, East Sepik Province, confessed that this was her maiden voyage to Lae, for the SME convention.

With a twinkle in her eye, she admitted that the acronym “SME” had been a mystery to her. But she decided to embark on this adventure to see it all for herself.
Her claim to fame? The inimitable Maprik bilums, in an assortment of sizes and prices that could make anyone’s head spin. With each bilum, a piece of Wanga’s heart and heritage was woven into the fabric, waiting for a new owner to cherish.

Momase Catholic Women's SME

As the convention drew to a close, Gali offered a rallying cry to the government and its relevant departments. Urging them to recognize the unstoppable force of women mobilizing their efforts.
They weren’t asking for handouts, just a fair chance to share their talents with the world.

In the midst of ongoing discussions about SME‘s, the reality is that genuine support is still a rare find. These women don’t need charity; they need a stage where they can take center stage.
As the sun set over Lae, casting a golden hue over the convention grounds, it was clear these women were leaving with more than just sales. They were leaving with a sense of pride and the knowledge that they were the architects of their own destiny.

Here’s to the Momase Catholic Women, crafting their own futures, one bilum at a time.

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News

Accident on Magi Highway

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Maggi Highway Accident

A tragic car accident occurred last night, near March Girls Resort, Gaire Village, along the Magi Highway in Central Province. The incident happened between 10-11pm, claiming the lives of a young couple in their early 30s and leaving another injured.

According to sources on the ground, the young couple were hit by the vehicle while walking along the roadside, killing the woman upon impact. Sources say the man died while being rushed to Port Moresby General Hospital.

The vehicle allegedly responsible for the accident is a private vehicle.

Eyewitnesses allege that the driver and passengers of the private vehicle, who fled the scene, were potentially police personnel. A claim based on the recovery of a police jacket from the vehicle. The jacket is currently in the custody of village elders. Villagers are demanding the presence of authorities and leaders to address the situation.

In response, villagers have set up a roadblock at the accident site and are demanding compensation for the tragic event.

The Central Provincial Police Commander, Laimo Asi, has been contacted by InsidePNG for a statement regarding the incident.

Commander Asi is aware of the accident and confirmed that an investigation is already underway.

Commander Asi clarified that the vehicle involved in the accident is not a police vehicle. The discovery of the police jacket within the vehicle is seen as a significant point of controversy and is subject to further investigation.

Commander Asi called on the local community not to take the law into their own hands. He urged them to trust the police to conduct their investigation thoroughly, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the public and law enforcement.

“We understand the frustration and the pain,” said Asi. “However, it’s crucial that we trust the process and allow the investigation to take its course.”

In the meantime, the road block has been cleared after police addressed locals around 2:35pm.

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News

Hungarian President to Visit PNG

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Hungarian

Hungarian Head of Mission to Papua New Guinea, Ambassador, Zsolt Csenger-Zalan has arrived in Port Moresby.

The Ambassador met with Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae and presented his Letters of Credence at the Government House.

(Right) Hungarian Head of Mission to Papua New Guinea, Ambassador, Zsolt Csenger-Zalan. Seen here presenting his Letter of Credence to Governor General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae. (Left).

PNG and Hungary established formal diplomatic relations in 1977. Through the European Union, both countries share in international agreements of United Nations such as Climate Change, Endangered Species and Antarctic Treaty.

In their brief discussion, Ambassador Csenger-Zalan, spoke of the upcoming State Visit of the Hungarian President Katalina Novak, to PNG in October.

“I am certain the State Visit of President Novak to Papua New Guinea, will be a form of advertisement for Papua New Guinea. To attract interests and visits from Hungarians to this part of the world,” Ambassador Csenger-Zalan said.

When President Katalina Novak visits Papua New Guinea next month, she will travel to Manus province. Her visit will pay tribute to the martyred Hungarian missionary – Maria Molnar, who served and lived among the people of Pitulu island prior to World War II.

The Governor General said PNG looks forward to receiving the Madam President on her State Visit to Papua New Guinea and Manus province.

“The President’s visit will no doubt strengthen and deepen the good relations between our two countries,” Governor General said.

Hungarian Ambassador

Recent: https://insidepng.com/talks-on-direct-flights-between-png-and-uae/

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Agriculture

Office for Cocoa Farmers

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Cocoa Farmers

Cocoa farmers in the Southern Region were gifted an office space on the third floor of Monian Tower in Port Moresby.

The small office set up consists of a reception area, where cocoa farmers can wait to be served. Workstations for two officers, the manager’s office and reasonable size board room for meetings and consultations purposes.

To signify this approach, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed, between Central Provincial Government and the Cocoa Board of Papua New Guinea (CBPNG).

The Central Governor, Rufina Peter, while commending the Cocoa Board added that cocoa farming in Central Province has a massive potential for generating income and needs a collaborative effort by relevant authorities.

“I am sure with collaborative efforts with the Cocoa Board we want to add to the statistics of production cocoa in the province,” said the Governor.

Cocoa Board CEO, Jesse Anjen, said the set-up of the Regional Office marks the first agreement between the Cocoa Board and a provincial government in the Southern Region.

“I am pleased this is what has happened. What we say and what we preach must happen. We are here to assist small holders in the Central Province. Particularly the Southern Region but we must do the work for it to become a reality,” said Anjen.

A K1 Million funding was put forward by the Central Provincial Government. This is to strengthen efforts of CBPNG in pushing for exports and downstream processing.

“The thing that excites me the most is, the opening of the Cocoa Board office for Southern Region and Central Province. I congratulate the board management of Cocoa Board for this decision. To finally consider Central Province as a potential cocoa producing province,” said Governor Peter.

Meanwhile, the Central Provincial Government has been conducting trainings and other programs. Along with the Department of Agriculture and Livestock with plans to develop the sector.

A recent workshop was also held at Kwikila Station in August this year.

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Clean Electrification Supply

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Clean Electricity

Students and locals in Kuriva in the Hiri Koiari electorate can now access clean electricity supply, following the set-up of a mini grid system.

The second mini-grid system, under the USAID-PNG Electrification Partnership (USAID_PEP), was switched on at St John Bosco Primary. A sub-health centre in Kuriva, expanding access to clean electricity.

This project demonstrates a sustainable electrification infrastructure model. Wherein health and education infrastructure is electrified, along with surrounding households.

USAID PNG Country Representative Nino Nadiradze joined the local member Keith Iduhu, amongst others, to inaugurate the mini-grid system. A partnership between Papua LNG and Total Energies.

Nadiradze said USAID is supporting PNG government efforts in extending clean electrification supply.

“This 42-kilowatt renewable energy system will help improve the delivery of health services, strengthen education for students, and support solar-powered housing for teachers. USAID will continue to partner with the government of PNG and the private sector so we can reach out to more communities.” said Nadiradze.

Private sector partnerships like this expand affordable energy to remote areas. However, households are expected to pay for electricity. This is to support the upkeep and sustainability of the system.

USAID-PEP is a five-year project. It is worth over $57 million and designed to improve on-grid and off-grid electrification outcomes. As well as support the regulatory environment, and bring private sector funding into PNG’s energy sector.

Clean Electricity
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News

Rai Coast Village Court Issues

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Village Court

Village court officers in Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government (LLG) of Rai Coast District say they do not have proper court facilities to hear court matters.

But one village court official said that does not stop them from performing their duties.

“There is no proper building for an office space, or courthouse to listen to court cases”, a court official said.
The primary function of a Village Court is to ensure peace and harmony in the area for which it is established by way of mediation.

Currently, Court Officials in Astrolabe Bay LLG are operating under the shade of mango trees and security is a concern for the court officials when listening to cases in open space.

Apart from performing their duties in the open, the court officials say they are not being paid on time.
These concerns were raised to local member, Kessy Sawang in a visit she made to the LLG.

Hearing the needs from the court officials, Ms Sawang assured them that she will follow up in her capacity as Minister for Labour.

Related: https://insidepng.com/support-for-chw-school/

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News

Menstrual Health

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Menstrual Health

A partnership promoting menstruation hygiene between CPL Group and Queenpads PNG Limited has reached the East Sepik province this month.

As part of the 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations the team embarked on a comprehensive outreach program and visited secondary schools in the Wewak Urban areas.

This outreach initiative’s intention is to break barriers surrounding the importance of feminine hygiene and health. To date, this outreach initiative has positively impacted over 1,500 participants, spanning across both genders.

Queenpads are reusable and have been sold at selected City Pharmacy outlets nationwide for more than five years now.

The awareness campaigns that aims to educate women and young girls on menstrual health cover critical topics, such as hygiene, health, and the efficient utilization of both reusable and disposable menstrual pads.

The partnership with Queenpads PNG Limited has seen CPL Foundation Inc serve an important role in sponsoring this awareness, which is reaching the broader community, including men, about the importance of open dialogue and proper practices in menstrual health hygiene.

The results have been remarkable, as the program has been successful in meeting the needs of women and girls concerning menstrual hygiene.

The program’s target demographic includes students, working individuals, and adult community members.

This initiative demonstrates CPL Foundation’s enduring commitment to the betterment of women’s and girls’ lives across Papua New Guinea.

Related: https://insidepng.com/pharmacists-to-attend-international-conference/

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