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Autonomous Bougainville Government

Project Visits

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Evaluation and Monitoring officers from the Autonomous Bougainville Government have been visiting development projects in the region to ensure smooth delivering of Bougainville projects.

Acting Deputy Chief Secretary for Strategic Planning and Policy, Stephanie Elizah, said such visits are important to see how resourced are effectively channelled towards the sustainable development projects.

Bougainville Projects

“The primary objective of these monitoring visits is to conduct comprehensive assessments of all Bougainville Development Projects at the district level, closely examining their progress and ensuring strict adherence to established guidelines,” she Elizah.

These visits coordinated through the ABG’s Office of the Chief Secretary is desired to maintain
transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of resources in the pursuit of Bougainville’s development objectives.

The team had visited 21 project sites including building and construction sites and economic development projects in several districts. The monitoring visits are part of the ABG’s annual performance review and reporting process.

This initiative is incorporated in the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan 2023-2027, which was launched recently in Awara.

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News

It’s Time for Change

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Calls for a cabinet reshuffle has been made to Prime Minister James Marape to bring the best MPs from both sides of the house together.

Chuave MP James Nomane, made this remark when reflecting on how the government is addressing the socio-economic challenges in the country on the eve of PNG’s 48th Independence.

“In the last 12 months, the country’s socio-economic indicators have regressed. We just need to look at the lack of jobs, no medicine in hospitals, and the unprecedented crime wave. This is a reality check and an indictment on our ability to manage the nation’s affairs as its elected leaders,” said Nomane.

He said the government is yet to mitigate the PNG’s Youth Bulge Pandemic, create safer
communities, leverage its geopolitical strengths for rapid growth, create mass employment
through foreign direct investment and promote sustainable resource management that gives.
immediate benefits to landowners.

“How can we expect our people to be more and do more when we have failed to create a conducive environment for them to grow, inspire, and succeed,” Nomane said.

He said the government cannot continue to pass the buck and must demonstrate total ownership of the multiple crises affecting the people; Economic stagflation, health system collapse, high attrition rates in the education sector, a weak electoral process, and an upsurge in violent crimes that threatens to spiral into anarchy.

“This Independence Day I call on the Prime Minister to put the country first and do a
complete Cabinet reshuffle that brings the best of both government and opposition MPs
together”, said Nomane.

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News

Flights Resumed to Tokua Airport

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PNG Air flights into Tokua airport resumed today after the airline suspended its flights for the whole of yesterday.

The temporally suspension was put in place after the Tokua Airport Terminal Building was broken into by armed criminals who attacked security guards.

Police reported the break and enter and robbery incident involving 25 criminals who entered the terminal building and destroyed computers, check-in counters and scanning machines between 2am to 3am on Wednesday morning.

East New Britain Police Commander Januarius Vosivai said while police know the identity of six men allegedly involved, the incident paints a bad image for the province.
“The suspects are believed to be from two plantations from within the vicinity of the airport area,” said PPC Vosivai.

Police believed the armed criminals entered the terminal building airside and made their way to the other side of the terminal.

Meanwhile, PNG Air flights into Wapenamanda remains suspended due to on-going tribal violence in the Enga Province.

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News

PNG Power Proposes No Blackout

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No Blackout

PNG Power says it will strive to ensure there will be no power disruption throughout the country as Papua New Guinea celebrates its 48 years of national sovereignty.

The national electricity service provider has come under scrutiny by Papua New Guineans who complained about frequent power outages in main centres like Port Moresby, Lae and Mt Hagen.

However, Chief Executive Officer of PNG Power, Obed Batia said he want to personally commit to ensuring PNG celebrates Independence free from any planned maintenance or shutdowns.

“All scheduled maintenance plans that will downtime on power supply have been postponed to ensure everyone enjoys their Independence Celebrations”, said Batia.

He added that there are some provinces are experiencing load shedding of electricity but by end of today (Thursday 13th September 2023) there will be no planned power outage.

Batia has asked the general public to be vigilant during the celebration to avoid instances to damages caused to the power poles and lines which can lead to unexpected loss of power supply.

Papua New Guinea will observe 48 years of Independence on 15th September (tomorrow) because Independence day falls on Saturday.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/tag/edevu-hydropower-dam/

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Climate Change

Grants for Research Work

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Climate Research Grants

The Australian Government has announced it will support research work towards Papua New Guinea’s Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Policy.

Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Jon Philp said this will be through the form of grants offered to the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA)

These funding support will is aimed at emerging cohort of climate researchers from PNG to deliver evidence-based research in support of PNG’s climate goals.

The grants will support eligible Master’s and Doctoral students in a one year program of research and the findings during the study which will be presented at the Third National Climate Change Summit next year.

It will be delivered in partnership with CCDA, the National Research Institute (NRI), and the PNG Science and Technology Secretariat.

This joint initiative between PNG and Australia is one component of Australia’s dedication to support PNG implement the climate national adaptation and mitigation goals.

Part of this partnership included the facilitating of a team of international experts from the Australian National University to attend the National Climate Change Summit in Port Moresby.

Presentations made by climate change specialists from Australia included topics on climate challenges faced by communities in the Pacific Region and how to identify solutions.

The topics covered blended finance options for climate adaptation, climate justice and social inclusion, and new research to trial carbon trading through coffee farming.

Meanwhile the application information for the climate research grant opportunities will be available on the Climate Change and Development Authority website following the conclusion of the Summit.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/new-climate-change-regulation-to-improve-carbon-trading/

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Arts & Culture

Support towards Goroka Show

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Goroka Show

South Pacific Brewery (SP Brewery) has announced its commitment to supporting the annual Goroka Show.

Aaron Japu, SPB Regional Sales Manager for the Highlands region, expressed the company’s dedication to the Goroka Show, which spans several decades. “SP Brewery has remained a steadfast sponsor of the Goroka Show, and we are honored to continue our support,” said Japu.

“This event is a vital platform for showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea, and we are proud to be part of its journey.”

In line with their commitment to responsible consumption, SP Brewery will set up a dedicated booth at the show.

The booth aims to raise awareness about responsible alcohol consumption and promote safe behaviors among attendees. Showgoers above the legal drinking age of 18 are invited to visit the SP Brewery booth to engage in informative discussions about responsible drinking practices.

Additionally, the SP Lager Coaster Bus promotion will be highlighted at the event.

The Goroka Show, an event of cultural celebrations in Papua New Guinea, will be held from September 15th to 17th at the National Sports Institute in Goroka. Showcasing the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the region, the event attracts both local residents and visitors from around the world.

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News

Project Management Training

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EU STREIT PNG

Government officers and private contractors in Papua New Guinea have been equipped with enhanced project management skills in a recent comprehensive capacity-building training, as stated from the International Labour Organization (ILO).

The training, part of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, was designed to improve the quality and efficiency of transport infrastructure project management in the country.

The infrastructure sector is crucial to Papua New Guinea’s economic growth and connectivity.

The capacity-building workshop held in Wewak focused on Project Scheduling and Resource Planning, engaging a diverse group of participants, including key stakeholders, contractors and government officers involved in road construction.

The training aimed to provide participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to use project management software such as Primavera and Microsoft Project, which are pivotal for effective scheduling and project planning in transport infrastructure projects. The workshop covered essential aspects of project management, including project lifecycle, planning, time management, work breakdown structure, resource allocation, project structure, organisation breakdown structure, cost management, risk management, monitoring and control, and reporting.

The capacity-building initiative was attended by 20 participants from government agencies, private contractors, and development partners. One of the participants, Mr Sani Sani, Project Engineer from Sani Construction Limited, praised the training, stating that it was an “eye-opener” and the skills they acquired would be valuable in their work.

Key takeaways from the training included enhanced project efficiency, improved decision-making, timely project delivery, resource optimization, and fostering collaboration. Participants learned to use Primavera and Microsoft Project to optimize resource allocation, streamline workflow processes, and make data-driven decisions.

The ILO, under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the development of skills and capacities in Papua New Guinea’s transport infrastructure sector.

The EU-STREIT PNG Programme is the largest grant-funded Programme of the European Union in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region. Implemented as a UN Joint Programme with FAO as the leading agency, and ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP as partners, it aims to enhance sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas and improve the efficiency of value chain enablers.

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Crime

Criminals Vandalized Tokua Airport

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Tokua Airport

PNG Air has temporarily suspended its flights into Tokua airport after the terminal building was ransacked by more that 25 criminals who broke into the terminal this morning.

The airline released a statement at 10am today saying the suspension remains indefinite until the airline can determine safe operation back into the province.

East New Britain Police Commander, Januarius Vosivai said the criminals entered the airport terminal from the airside and vandalized both PNG Air and Air Niugini Officers inside the terminal building.

“Until the NAC (National Airport Corporation) gives a report, we can know the extent of damage. But the incident that happened paints a bad picture for the province,” said PPC Vosivai

Police say the criminals entered the airport premises with bush knives and attacked a security guard in the process.

The ransacking incident occurred in the early hours of this morning and properties destroyed include computers, scanning machines and check-in counters.

In December 2020, police reported a similar attack where 20 armed criminals from a nearby settlement, attacked and robbed students from the University of Natural Resources and Environment who were at the Tokua airport waiting to check-in.

The security breached in 2020 had forced authorities to close Tokua airport but was reopened shortly. In this incident, the extent of damages on airport properties is estimated to be more and may take longer for flights to be resumed.

Police say they have identified six suspects involved in the raid and are working on arresting them.

Meanwhile national flag carrier, Air Niugini has offloaded a number of its passengers who purchased tickets to fly out of Tokua since last Saturday 9th September 2023.

With the airport now vandalized those passengers offloaded may be spending Independence away from their families.

Recent: https://insidepng.com/continuous-flight-delays-cause-frustration-among-passengers/

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Crime

Arrest Warrants Expected

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UBS Loan

A significant breakthrough has been reached in the long-standing probe into the controversial 2014 state loan from the Union Bank of Switzerland (UBS). The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is set to issue arrest warrants for a number of individuals implicated in the case, following an exhaustive 18-month investigation spanning multiple jurisdictions, including Papua New Guinea, Singapore, and Australia.

The charges are a direct result of the work of the Proceeds of Crime Task Force, a special unit established by the RPNGC to investigate the UBS loan.

“The charges that are about to be laid are covered by the Criminal Code Act and the Proceeds of Crime Act,” said Commissioner of Police, David Manning. The alleged offences are described as “extremely serious”, depriving Papua New Guinea citizens of substantial public funds.

Former Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill was arrested following the Inquiry into the UBS loan in June on allegations of giving false information during the inquiry.

InsidePNG has reached out to Peter O’Neill who said he will not comment as the case is before the court.

In a stern warning, Commissioner Manning stated that any attempts to spark social unrest in response to these arrests would be met with swift and resolute action, potentially leading to additional charges. He called on the public to act responsibly and be prepared for potential disturbances.

He also emphasised that those charged would have their day in court, allowing justice to take its course. “Individuals charged will have the opportunity to defend themselves in court as part of due process,” Manning said.

The individuals involved in the UBS loan scandal stand accused of a massive breach of public trust and abuse of government office. “No one is above or beyond the reach of the law,” the Commissioner declared, adding that the police will “fearlessly execute their constitutional duties in the service of our country.”

The Proceeds of Crime Task Force, made up of members of the Fraud Squad, forensic auditors, and other specialist experts, has been instrumental in uncovering the alleged offences.

The upcoming arrests follow the completion of the ‘Royal Commission of Inquiry into processes and procedures followed by the Government of Papua New Guinea in obtaining the offshore loan from the Union Bank of Switzerland and related transactions,’ which concluded in March 2022 with a final report.

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News

PNG Logging Volumes Fail to Meet Reduction Targets

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Export Logging failing targets

Papua New Guinea (PNG) continues export logging at an unsustainable rate, falling short of the government’s reduction targets, according to ACT NOW!, a community advocacy group. The group’s analysis of official data reveals that the PNG Forest Authority has not been able to maintain export volumes within the limits set by the government.

Prime Minister James Marape has consistently spoken of his government’s goal to eliminate all round log exports by 2025. Instead, Marape has urged the forest industry to shift their focus to downstream processing and value addition. This change is projected to increase employment, generate more export revenues, and help PNG uphold its international commitments to reduce deforestation and preserve forests.

The Medium Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV), released in May, backs the government’s policy by setting annual log export limitations. Starting from 1,695,000 cubic metres in 2024, these limits are slated to decrease each year to a maximum of 200,000 cubic metres by 2027.

ACT NOW!’s analysis of official log export data, however, suggests that the PNG Forest Authority is not meeting these targets.

“Over 1.1 million cubic metres of logs were exported in the first half of 2023 alone,” says Eddie Tanago, ACT NOW!’s Campaign Manager. “This volume is equivalent to 66% of the maximum limit set for the entire year.”

Unless immediate action is taken to decrease log export volumes, ACT NOW! predicts that the government’s limit will be exceeded by more than 500,000 cubic metres by the end of 2023.

ACT NOW! additionally reports that one-third of log exports originate from logging projects authorised under a Forest Clearance Authority (FCA), despite a moratorium on new FCA projects implemented by the National Forest Board in December last year.

FCAs are intended to permit the clearance of small, discrete forest areas for agricultural planting or other land use changes under the Forest Act. ACT NOW! alleges, however, that FCAs are being misused to enable the exportation of large volumes of logs from areas not designated for agriculture over extended periods.

In a recent report on the Wammy Rural Development Project, ACT NOW! highlighted an instance of continuous logging under an FCA for eight years with no evidence of promised agricultural planting.

The advocacy group insists that the immediate cessation of log exports from fraudulent FCA projects could significantly help reduce export volume to within government limits.

“The PNGFA should immediately suspend all logging and log exports from FCA areas,” Tanago advises. “A public review should then be conducted to determine the legitimacy of these projects.”

Such efforts, ACT NOW! believes, will not only address the issue of widespread illegal logging but also help bring down the volume of log exports to within government targets.

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