Papua New Guinea Today

Papua New Guinea’s workforce is to be further boosted by the PNG LNG Scholarship program, funded by ExxonMobil PNG Limited (EMPNG) and implemented in partnership with the Australian Government in 2017.

The partnership between ExxonMobil and the Australian Government contributes to addressing rural workforce gaps in the frontline service delivery sector of health, with promotion focused on students living in rural and remote locations from PNG LNG Project areas.

The Australian High Commission’s Counsellor (Education), Suzanne Edgecombe, described the partnership as an excellent example of the private and public sector coming together to enhance economic and social progress.

“Through the EMPNG-DFAT partnership, PNG citizens will gain skills to provide essential health services to their communities in remote areas.

“It is extremely pleasing to see the Australian and PNG Governments coming together with industry, to harmonise the work they do to enhance PNG’s economic progress,” Edgecombe said.

Sisa Kini, ExxonMobil PNG’s community development support manager, said EMPNG is pleased to partner with the Australian Government to provide funding for scholarships in PNG LNG project areas.

“The Australian Government has enormous expertise in managing scholarships and by tapping into their structured and well administered scholarship program with institutions that are recognised and certified, we can provide greater educational opportunities for students in communities close to PNG LNG project areas.

“It is our hope that over time, our investment in youth today is laying the foundation for a competent, capable and professional Papua New Guinea workforce, one that supports all industry sectors, and contributes to the growth and development of their communities and this country.”

The 15 awardees for 2017 have already commenced studies at their respective training schools.

The continuation of the PNG LNG Scholarship program follows the original agreement in 2015 for the Australian Government and EMPNG to combine efforts and provide scholarships to Papua New Guineans in the PNG LNG project area through the Australian Government’s scholarship program, Australia Awards PNG (AAPNG).

The PNG LNG Scholarship program was piloted in 2016. Under this pilot phase, seven scholarships were awarded to PNG LNG project area students to study Certificate in Community Health Work in PNG. Under the extended program, EMPNG will support the continuing seven students from last year as well as sponsor the 2017 enrolment of 15 new students in a Certificate in Community Health Work at Rumginae, St Gerard’s or Raihu Community Health Work Training Schools.

The Australian Government will be working in partnership with EMPNG until 2020 with activities focused on law & justice, governance and the scholarship program.

Check out:

([Far left] Sisa Kini, ExxonMobil PNG’s community development support manager, and [Right-back row] Suzanne Edgecombe, Australian High Commission’s Counsellor [Education] with the awardees)

The Parliamentary leader for Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party and Opposition Leader, Don Pomb Polye is making inroads into the rural areas carrying out awareness on his party’s policies.

Mr Polye visited Pura area in the outback of Kandep electorate carrying out awareness among the rural population.

The area is located among the rugged terrain and very remote but this did NOT stop Mr Polye from visiting his people.
He took a 20 minutes helicopter ride from Mt Hagen to Pura in Kandep in the Enga province where he was welcome by over two thousand people.

Mr Polye held meetings with tribal leaders and chiefs prior to his meeting with general population.
He took the opportunity to educate the people on his party’s policies.
Mr Polye has been passionate about equipping youths of this nation with technical skills and to empower them to contribute to the development of this nation.
He said when his party forms the next government; he will ensure youths are equipped with technical skills to contribute to this nation’s growth.

Mr Polye also told the people the he will revive the Agriculture sector, inject funds into this sector and encourage rural population to venture deeper into agricultural activities.
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Digicel has launched an exciting new smartphone offer, which has never been done before in PNG or any other country where Digicel operates.

In a first for any telecommunications company in PNG, people can now buy any smartphone from any phone-selling outlet nationwide and get Free data for 6 months from Digicel.

Existing smartphone users on any network can also buy a Digicel SIM and take up this offer, provided they have not used that smartphone on the Digicel Network before.
To launch the exciting promotion, Digicel will provide free data to any customer that purchases any smartphone on the Digicel network.

When they buy any smartphone and insert a new or existing Digicel SIM card, customers will receive up to 6GB of data free for six months.
This can be used as 1GB free data per month for six months, valid for one full week and is valued at K250.
Customers can purchase a smartphone from any phone-selling outlet across the country and become eligible for this offer.
Digicel Managing Director, Mobile, Shivan Bhargava said he was thrilled to launch this first of its kind promotion in PNG.

“No other mobile phone retailer in Papua New Guinea has ever had such an attractive offer like this new Digicel promotion,” he said.
“We’re very excited to make smartphones more accessible to our loyal customers and help them keep in touch with their wantoks across the country. By offering this added value to customers, we are enabling them to fully enjoy and participate in the knowledge economy through the gift of data.’’
“This promotion is such great value for money and we anticipate a record number of people from around the country will join the Digicel network to take advantage of this great offer.”
This promotion applies to any smartphone purchased from any phone-selling outlet across the country regardless of its brand or model as long as it is used with a Digicel SIM card.

This offer can only be redeemed once every six months per SIM card. After six months, the same SIM card can be used to redeem the offer again but it can only be used with a brand new smartphone, not the same smartphone.
The free seven day 1GB of data must be used within the same month once activated – this will not roll over to the next month. This offer is only available to prepaid customers.

The Papua New Guinea senior men’s national team will reconvene in Port Moresby on Sunday 5 March for their final preparation before they face Tahiti on the 23 March at Sir John Guise Stadium.

With only 25 more days remaining until Papua New Guinea face Francophone side Tahiti in what is undoubtedly a massive test to the nation’s credibility as a powerhouse in Pacific football.

Head Coach, Flemming Serritslev, says that he is content with the 23 players named in his squad.

These comments were made amidst concern over the notable absence of a number of key players, although Serritslev is adamant that the focus is on getting the best out of his available crop of talent.

Wins over the Solomon Islands and Samoa, as well as draws against Tahiti and New Caledonia and reaching their maiden final after four decades, the Nation had fought hard to earn their top tier mantle.

“We did not qualify by chance. We worked for it. We are going to work for positive results and to go all the way,” says Serritslev.

PNG want to live up to their name. The 23 players that are coming for the training camp are betting on confidence and team work, even though they know that the odds are against them.

The side will be bolstered with the presence of eleven PNG overseas based players, Raymond Gunemba, Nigel Dabinyaba, Alwin Komolong, Wira Wama, David Browne, Aaron Spain, Brad McDonald, Felix Komolong, George Slefendorfas, Jamie Woodlock, Michael Foster and Wira Wama.

With this camp Serritslev will announce his final roster to face Tahiti.

Squad: Aaron Spain (NZ), Alwin Komolong (USA), Brad McDonald (Aus), Charlie Lepani (Mungkas), Donovan Murray (PS Huawei), Emmanuel Simon (LCD), Felix Komolong (NZ), George Slefendorfas (Aus), Giwi Simon (Besta), Ila David (UIFC), Jacob Sabua (Madang), Jamie Woodlock (NZ), Michael Foster (Aus), Nigel Dabinyaba (Malaysia), Patrick Aisa (Madang), Philip Steven (Genesis), Raymond Gunemba (NZ), Ronald Warison (LCD), Sammy Campbell (UIFC), Stahl Gubag (Madang), Wira Wama (USA), Clement Willis (Mungkas), Richard Alois (PS Huawei).

Team Management: Flemming Serritslev (Head coach), Reginald Davani (Assistant coach), Trevor Smal (Doctor), Samson Steven (Kit manager), Godfrey Baniau (Goal-keeper coach), Hendrilla Vilosi (Physio).

The New Zealand Tonga Business Council’s recent business mission to Tonga was one of the most significant trade missions to leave New Zealand shores for the Pacific, says Michael Greenslade, Trade Commissioner of Pacific Trade & Invest (PT&I) NZ.

The 35-strong delegation, the biggest ever group of its kind to visit Tonga from New Zealand, comprised businesspeople and investors from such wide-ranging sectors as property investment, energy, food and agriculture, shipping, health, education, telecommunications broadcasting, aluminium, construction, accommodation/hospitality, dairy products, trade promotion agencies, the New Zealand government, fisheries and other industry.

“It was heartening to see such deep engagement of PT&I at different levels,” Mr Greenslade said. “PT&I Advisory Board member Matua Shane Jones [New Zealand’s Economic Development Ambassador for the Pacific] was instrumental in getting interested people to join the mission.” Other board members Rohit Reddy and Rachel Afeaki Taumoepeau also played prominent roles in the mission. “Manuel Valdez, Joe Fuavao and I represented PT&I. NZTBC Chairman Sione Taufa was outstanding in arranging business meetings and engagements during the week,” Mr Greenslade added.

The mission has stirred enough interest among some delegates to think in terms of a follow up visit to the island nation in the near future, says Manuel Valdez, Pacific Trade & Invest (PT&I) Head of Investments and Chief Operating Officer.

The one-on-one business meetings were well organised and structured, which made the business mission productive and successful, Mr Valdez said. “The delegates directly met and mingled with key business people and government officials during the weeklong mission in Tonga. We expect that some Kiwi businessmen will go back to Tonga to discuss the nitty-gritty of joint ventures and contract signing,” he added. “PT&I always stands ready to help them facilitate their business interests in Tonga or any of the Forum Pacific Islands.”

As well as attending presentations from senior Government and public sector officials on a range of topics including energy, tourism, banking and finance, ICT and investment opportunities, the delegates visited several businesses and interacted with business owners throughout the visit.

The business mission coincided the reopening of the iconic Tanoa Dateline International Hotel and their Majesties King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u of Tonga gave a blessing on the grand opening and. Ambassador Matua Jones delivered a speech at the big event. Prime Minister of Tonga Hon. Samiuela ‘Akilisi Pohiva also spoke with the vote of thanks delivered by Reddy Group Managing Director, Rohit Reddy.

Trade Commissioner Greenslade and PT&I staff visited the Ministry of Commerce, Communication, Tourism, Industry and Labour (MCCTIL) office to discuss several projects on hand. Minister of MCCTIL, Programme Manager Tevita Lautaha and the key officers of the Hahake Agriculture Cooperative discussed some issues to make the export of agriculture products to the New Zealand market productive and effective, Mr Valdez said.

Photo NZ HC Facebook Source: Pacificperiscope

While attending meetings in Washington D.C. American Samoan Governor Lolo Moliga sent a message of condolence to the Kingdom of Tonga on the passing of the Queen Mother Halaevalu Mata’aho.

The Queen Mother passed away a week ago in Auckland, New Zealand. She was 90.

The late Queen Mother and his Majesty King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV, used to be regular visitors to American Samoa as VIP guests for Flag Day, inaugurations and other major events.

In a message addressed to King Siaosi Tupou IV and her Majesty Queen Nanasipau’u, Governor Lolo wrote:

“It is with deepest sadness that we have learned of the passing of the beloved Queen Mother of Tonga, Halaevalu Mata’aho.

“Her lifetime of contributions to the Kingdom of Tonga and to the Tongan people around the world will be long remembered.

“During my tenure as President of the Senate of American Samoa I had the honour and privilege to meet the Queen Mother at Fuamotu during the time of the coronation of King George Tupou V.

“I shall always remember her warmth and the generosity of her spirit.

“She was an inspiration to all, and will be fondly remembered by members of the Tongan Community here in the territory.

“On behalf of my wife Cynthia and Lt. Governor Lemanu palepoi Mauga, and on behalf of all the people of American Samoa, our most sincere condolences go out to you and the Royal Family, and to the people of Tonga, for your profound loss.

Photo Tonga Now Facebook
Source: PACNEWS

The Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters (SAME) will be leading a delegation of four company members to Pasifika Festival in Auckland on 25-26 March.

The four companies were invited to Pasifika Festival 2017 under the Pacific Islands Trade & Invest (PT&I) NZ Path 2 Market programme alongside 28 companies from eight Pacific Island countries which are also part of the delegation. PT&I NZ is tasked to help Pacific Island countries export to New Zealand and has worked very successfully with SAME for many years on programmes and projects aimed at increasing exports from Samoa.

The Samoan companies represent a wide spectrum of products ranging from turmeric and coconut jam to garments and handicrafts from the local garment sector.

The delegation will be led by Tagaloa Eddie Wilson, President of the Samoa Association of Manufacturers & Exporters (SAME). Tagaloa is also the Managing Director of Wilex Samoa which has successfully launched the Koko Loa chocolate products range.

The delegation includes E-Life, a manufacturer of a range of turmeric products. The company is owned by Etu Tuala and his wife Elena. Turmeric products are growing in importance as a health drink supplement. It is said to hold many properties that can contribute to relief of symptoms associated with joint pain. It is understood there is a growing market in New Zealand for turmeric-based products.

Another company, Heavenly Water has been a successful producer of a range of purified bottled water but more recently, a coconut Jam range that is being supplied to many of the hotel and tourist locations in Samoa. Coconut products have been an especially popular choice of tourists visiting Samoa and looking for something distinctly Samoan.

Heavenly Water is a family owned business by Vickie Vaai and her partner Jerome. A big plus for the company is its HACCP (Hazard analysis and critical control points) certification, an international certification programme aimed at reducing potential hazards for companies processing food based products. For many international markets, HACCP is required before products can be imported into the country.

Mamanu Samoa Design is a Samoan based co-operative made up of a group of Samoan garment and handicraft operators. The cooperative has been successfully marketing the products in Hawaii and very successfully at the Guam Cultural Festival held in 2015.

“Samoan garments are held in high regard internationally for their distinctive design and fabrics,” Colin Stringer from SAME said.

Le Vai, the fourth company, is an old family owned Samoan business traditionally producing a variety of bottled water products. More recently it has broadened its product range to produce a fish pate made from a local delicacy called Palolo. Palolo are fish that are unique to Samoa and can only be harvested twice a year when they rise to the surface of the sea. At the time of the palolo rising, as it is known locally, many Samoan families can be seen with their various utensils finding ways to catch their share of this rare delicacy.

“PT&I warmly welcomes the delegation from Samoa. The delegation brings a range of products with niche market opportunities to test on this trade mission. We look forward to welcoming the delegation and delivering a programme that develops their path to the New Zealand market,” PT&I Trade Development Manager Joe Fuavao said.

Photo Le Vai Samoa Facebook
Source: Pacificperiscope

University of Waikato student Foa Samuelu (18) received the top result in New Zealand for her NCEA Samoan scholarship exam last year.

While Samoan was her strongest subject at school, Foa was surprised to hear the news.

“I speak fluent Samoan and have always enjoyed the subject, but I had to study hard for this exam and found it quite difficult,” Foa says. “I was so happy to find out I’d done well.”

Foa was born in Samoa and moved to New Zealand when she was two. She’s one of six children and grew up in South Auckland.

The former Auckland Girls’ Grammar School student has just started a conjoint degree in Law and Māori and Indigenous Studies at the University of Waikato’s Hamilton campus. For her NCEA results, Foa received a $3000 Academic Merit School Leaver Scholarship. She also received the Edna Money Future Pacific Leaders’ Scholarship worth $6000 a year for up to three years.

Foa’s living at Bryant Hall, one of the Halls of Residence on campus, and says moving away from home was part of her search for independence.

“My family is very supportive of me but I wanted to get out of Auckland and start living my own life,” says Foa. “Waikato was the right place for me because of its diversity and collective, community approach.”

Foa’s culture has played a big part in her journey and success so far. “My culture keeps me grounded and reminds me of who I am and who I want to be,” she says.

At school, Foa was the prefect for global citizenship and student trustee on the school board of trustees. She was also a student ambassador for the Graeme Dingle Foundation, a child and youth charity.

“I hosted and spoke at events to advocate the benefits of the Foundation for young people in New Zealand,” she says. “One of my highlights was meeting the Prime Minister and Governor General and telling them about my experiences.”

Foa was part of Project K, a 14-month mentoring programme designed to grow confidence in young kiwis. After experiencing some personal difficulties in her early teens, Foa was brought into the programme and matched to a mentor.

“It just takes one person to believe in you and suddenly you’re able to see your potential,” says Foa. “My mentor helped me do that and I’m thankful to the Graeme Dingle Foundation.”

After she graduates, Foa wants to combine her love of law and culture to advocate for minority groups in society.

“I want to work for a not-for-profit or create my own organisation that helps people discover their potential,” she says. “Too often success is measured by the same standard, usually academic. I think it’s important we realise every person is a treasure chest and it’s about finding the right key to unlock that treasure.”

Source: Press Release

FIFTY women candidates who intend to run for the 2017 National Election have been selected to participate in a week of training on parliamentary processes.

In a highly competitive process, participants from 22 provinces were selected from more than 200 applicants and will be trained on critical national policy issues, parliamentary processes and campaign strategies from March 6-13 this year in Port Moresby.

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) PNG acting resident representative, Ms Tracy Vienings said UNDP was proud to be supporting the Practice Parliament for the second time in Papua New Guinea.

"We believe it is important to ensure that PNG women have the opportunity and ability to actively participate in politics.

"With only three women MPs out of 111 in Papua New Guinea’s current parliament, women continue to be under-represented as political leaders and elected officials," she said. Highly qualified candidates from doctors to village women and women from other sectors of the community applied for PNG Practice Parliament for Women training, highlighting just how many women are keen to represent PNG and be active in political life.

The program aims to empower intending candidates to prepare themselves in the lead up to upcoming national elections in April 2017.

The program, organised by the UNDP in coordination with the Office of Integrity of Political Parties, National Parliament and Department of Community Development and religion, will culminate with a practice session in the Parliament chamber on March 13.

According to Ms Vienings, this training will develop women candidate’s skills not only in campaigning for elections, but also in engaging with policy issues that are critical to PNG’s future.

"That is the role of an MP, and we want to help women prepare to become elected representatives," she said.

The 50 participants were selected by a screening committee, and were also cross-checked with the Electoral Commission to ensure each participant filled in a Form 29 to contest the 2017 elections.

The final list of participants is available below and on the Facebook page: "PNG Practice Parliament for Women 2017 <https://www.facebook.com/PNGPracticeParl2017/> . Post Courier/Press Release/PNG Today

The advent of electronic banking in Papua New Guinea has the potential to significantly modernise and expand the country’s financial system Greg Pawson, General Manager of Westpac Pacific tells Business Advantage PNG.

Pawson says that technology advances, which have resulted in greater use of internet platforms and mobile phones, have made it possible for PNG to catch up quickly.

‘From a banking perspective, we’re probably 20 years behind more developed markets like Australia and New Zealand with respect to the use of electronic transactional banking,’ he says.

‘So clearly there is a mandate for us to get customers in the Pacific seeing the value and convenience of these electronic platforms and (have them) actively use them.

‘That will give people back the time they spend visiting branches or managing their financial affairs. It will also help to the pressure off the volume, the sheer volume, in cash and cheques that are in the banking systems in both (the PNG and Fiji) markets today.

'Regionally, many Australian corporates that operate in PNG are relocating their headquarters from Australia to Singapore.’

‘It causes us more concern in PNG because the security cost of moving cash around is significant.’

Trends

Pawson identifies a number of trends at the regional, corporate, mid-level and micro level. Regionally, many Australian corporates that operate in PNG are relocating their headquarters from Australia to Singapore in an effort to integrate more into the Asian region.

‘If you look at the upper end of the market, we are making sure that we’re connecting our PNG and Fiji corporate and commercial customers to the trade and capital flows to and from Australia and New Zealand. And, clearly, connectivity into Asia is really important for business in PNG.’

‘At the smallest level there are barriers.’

In the small business, mid-market, commercial and corporate customer base, Westpac has ‘some fairly significant technology investments’ that have been made to help the SME sector, says Pawson.

‘We’ve got our corporate online platform, and last year we launched the new generation EFTPOS terminal, which has revolutionised many businesses with its speed, usability and first class security.’

Smallest level

At the smallest level there are barriers, says Pawson. He says Westpac as an organisation does not ‘have the risk appetite, nor the capability’ to deliver microfinance. But he does see its importance to the economy and is keen to play a role. Westpac’s strategy will be to offer wholesale support to local micro-financing firms.

‘We won’t do microfinance, but we will partner with microfinance companies to support them from a wholesale funding perspective and to bank their customers through our mobile banking platform.

‘We’re not quite there yet, but we think that’s probably a better space for us to play.’

Microfinance based on electronic banking has been used effectively in Africa and South East Asia, but Pawson says PNG has some way to go. ‘Unfortunately most of the micro-finance companies, unlike in Africa and South-East Asia, just can’t get the scale to make the operation profitable enough.

‘We would look to potentially, with our mobile banking platform, partner with a company to support them from a funding perspective to roll out their microfinance programmes. But it is early days. We are just looking at the moment in terms of what we think we might be able to do.’

Gender

Pawson says the bank has a ‘big focus on gender’, with its Pacific Women In Business website helping women to set up and run their own businesses and flagship awards programs like the WOW awards celebrating women’s professional achievements.

‘We want to do all we can to help women thrive, and we know that entrepreneurialism is often a way to boost household income.

‘So we are providing the resources and support that is within our areas of expertise, and will be able to link women with a microfinance provider that has that specific lending experience and expertise.’

Westpac’s targets for its electronic banking are ambitious. Pawson tells Business Advantage PNG that the bank is aiming to have a million retail customers by 2020, as part of its Everywhere Banking Proposition.

‘The thing with that, though, is that we don’t want a million customers transacting through 50 odd branches. That would overload our branch network and waste people’s time in queues.

‘We know that, more and more, people will start to use and prefer electronic platforms, especially as internet and smart phone usage increases.’

‘The key to success with this platform is when you start to connect value-added services.’

Pawson says Westpac has 130,000 users on its mobile banking platform, which it is expecting to increase substantially.

‘People are activating it and using it, and it’s good for account balances and transfers and domestic remittances. But the key to success with this platform is when you start to connect value-added services, so the customers can top up their mobile phone.

‘They can prepay their utility bills, they can buy insurance services and a whole bunch of other things–all from the palm of their hand..

SOURCE: BUSINESS ADVANTAGE PNG/PNG Today

A high-level delegation from China has held discussions on China’s continuous support to Tonga’s civil aviation technology and aircraft operation.

The delegation from Civil Aviation Administration of China and the Aviation Industry Corporation of China was led by Mr. Li Jian, Deputy Director General of the CAAC.

There were meetings with the Deputy Prime Minister, Siaosi Sovaleni and the Minister for Infrastructure and Tourism, Semisi Sika in Nuku’alofa during the visit last week.

Discussions also focussed on cooperation in air transportation, pushing for the China-Tonga direct flight and deepening cooperation in tourism.

The delegation and the Civil Aviation Division (CAD) of Tonga also had consultations on China’s assistance for the sustained and safe operation of MA60 in Tonga and signed the Record of Discussion on Deepening Cooperation in Civil Aviation Safety between the CAD of Tonga and the CAAC.

This cooperation plays a positive role in further promoting cooperation in civil aviation between China and Tonga.

A four-party meeting participated by the CAD of Tonga, the CAAC, the Pacific Aviation Safety Office (PASO) and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand was also held in Nuku’alofa.

The meeting was proposed by the CAAC with the aim of reaching consensus on supporting the CAD of Tonga to strengthen its capability of safety oversight and ensuring the sustained and safe operation of civil aircrafts in Tonga through discussion and exchanges.

All the four parties attached great importance to this meeting and showed their positive attitude.

They believed that it is of great significance for Tonga to improve its capability of safety oversight.

Minutes of Discussion was signed at the end of the meeting where the CAAC, the PASO as well as the CAA of New Zealand all expressed willingness to provide technical support to Tonga.

Tonga’s foreign trade statistics for the month of April 2016 recorded a deficit of TOP$ 30.3 million.

The Statistics Department reports this was the result of an excess in imports of TOP$32.7 million over export worth of almost TOP$2.4 million for the period of April 2016.

Radio Tonga reports when compared with the trade deficit of TOP$39.7 million for March 2016, it recorded a decrease of TOP$ 9.3million in April.

The largest in import by harmonized groups was mineral products with TOP$7.5 million.

Source: Radio Tonga

A 21-year-old university student from Yangoru East Sepik province, Wilfred Lunge, is the proud owner of a new Huawei P9 smartphone after winning the Digicel Valentine’s Day Share the love P9 competition.
The promotion ran for an initial two weeks from February 1 and was extended for another two weeks due to its popularity.
To participate in the competition, Digicel customers were required to upload a 60-second video of themselves to Digicel PNG’s official Facebook page singing their favourite love song. They also had to explain who they would be sharing the love with this Valentine’s Day.
The videos with the most ‘likes’ and ‘reactions’ progressed to the final, with a panel of judges selecting the final winners according to the judging criteria.
Wilfred’s version of Ed Sheeren’s Thinking out loud stole the judges’ hearts, which he claims to have sung for his Valentine, Shirley.
Wilfred, who is a third year student at the University of Papua New Guinea studying Public Policy Management, said he was excited to win the Huawei P9 and thanked Digicel for running this competition and giving back to its customers.
“My very first smartphone was an Alcatel Pixi followed by an Alcatel EVO that I currently use,” Wilfed said.
Digicel Managing Director, Mobile, Shivan Bhargava praised Wilfred’s rendition of Thinking out loud.
“It’s wonderful to see our loyal customers get involved in our competitions by having a bit of fun,” he said.
“Wilfred is a deserving winner and we hope he enjoys his new Huawei P9 smartphone.”
The two runner ups were each awarded 13GB and 6GB respectively.

Adex Wera

Karo Kauna will become the 3rd debutant in the SP Hunters team this weekend when he runs on in place of Adex Wera in the round one (1) clash against Central Queensland Capras in Rockhampton, Australia on Saturday.

Wera was omitted after his visa to travel to Australia was not ready.
“It is a big blow to the team to leave him (Adex) behind,” a disappointed coach Michael Marum said before departure this morning. “It has disrupted our preparations for the 1st game. Karo (Kauna) will take his spot in the centres in the starting line.”
Kauna said although he was a last minute inclusion, he has been training with the team for the past 11 weeks and will give his best.

“It is disappointing for Adex but I will go out and give my best for the team and repay the faith the coach has placed on me to fill the spot,” Kauna said.
Kauna will wear jersey No. 19 and become Hunters # 49 behind Nixon Put (47) and Moses Meninga (48).
Noel Joel is the other player omitted. Radley Brawa is the 18th man travelling with the team.
The SP Hunters team travelled to Brisbane this morning. This afternoon they travel to Rockhampton for Saturday’s 6pm clash against Central Queensland Capras.

Hunters 20-man squad: 1. Bland Abavu 2. Butler Morris 3. Karo Kauna 4. Willie Minoga 5. William Aquila 6. Israel Eliab 7. Ase Boas (c) 8. Henry Wan 9. Gahuna Silas 10. Esau Siune 11. Nixon Put 12. David Loko 13. Stanton Albert; Reserves: 14. Lawrence Tu’u 15. Ishmael Balkawa 16. Enoch Maki 17. Moses Meninga 8. Radley Brawa 19. Karo Kauna 20. Noel Joel.

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Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited, yesterday, signed strategic agreements with two Japanese companies to develop and sell Papua New Guinea's oil and gas resources.

A heads of agreement with LNG Japan and a Memorandum of Understanding with Metal One Corporation were signed on the fringes of the country's first ever Energy Summit held in Port Moresby, yesterday.

KPHL and LNG Japan now form a joint venture aimed at purchasing and selling PNG's LNG.

KPHL is an existing shareholder in the multi-billion-Kina PNG LNG project and this arrangement would enable it to enter into the LNG market.

Managing Director Wapu Sonk said the signing of the agreement is strategic and also very critical in Kumul Petroleum taking a step forward in taking part in marketing some of the LNG together with partner LNG Japan.

"The heads of agreement will allow the companies to start working on the joint venture going forward with the PNG LNG project to take advantage of some of the spot market.

"The long term contracts are fixed, but there is opportunity in taking up some of the spot market cargoes and selling them to Japan and other markets around the world,Mr Sonk said.

"LNG Japan has experience in the business and KPHL as a shareholder in the PNG LNG project, we would like to work together and build on each others experience, he said.

President and Chief Executive Officer of LNG Japan, Norikazu Onishi, said the firm is happy to be here as a strategic p52artner with the country not only in oil and gas but also in other areas such as education.

KPHL also signed another milestone MOU with Metal One Corporation to participate in the Western Pipeline Project.

This now enables Metal One Corporation to partner KPHL in its plan to build the proposed pipeline to transport gas from the stranded field in Western Province to Port Moresby.

Managing Director, Wapu Sonk, said Metal One would supply steel and finance for the proposed pipeline announced in December.

Deputy Division COO Metal One Corporation, Atsushi Saiki, said they have been contributing to PNG's economic growth through the supply of steel products for the petroleum industry through their mother company, Sojitz Australia.

He said under the MOU with KPHL, they will provide high quality Japanese line pipes for the Western Province pipeline.

"We have an MOU with Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited regarding Japanese high quality line pipe supply for the strategic pipeline which will be very important for effective utilization of undeveloped precious oil and gas resources that you have in your country in Western Province,"Mr Saiki said.

The milestone agreements were witnessed by Minister for Petroleum and Energy, Nixon Duban, and Japan's Ambassador to PNG, Satoshi Nakajima.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Duban said the arrangements are a confidence in their government.

"For them to allow themselves to be part of Kumul in this very important joint venture arrangement shows confidence in our government and confidence in our resources that we have that we can also supply the energy market in the world.

"On behalf of the government and the Prime Minister Peter O'Neill would like to express our gratitude to the delegation who have come.

" We have, in couple of the big conferences around the world, we've marketed PNG as an investment destination.

"While there are critics who are downplaying our ability as a nation, while people are criticising the government, you can see the kind of work that's attracting interest from the international community,” Mr Duban said.

"PNG is an investment destination that will be there for a very long time because of the strategic position that we enjoy closer to the border of the Asian market which has a high energy demand."

Ambassador Nakajima, on the other hand, described the agreements as a significant milestone for both countries.

NBC News / PNG Today

The defense counsel representing Nauru national, Julian Henrich told a High Court in Fiji that his client was not part of the group which killed a 22-year-old Tongan University student in 2014.

Henrich was allegedly involved in a brawl with a group of men at a Suva nightclub and has been charged with manslaughter.

In his closing submission this morning, Sevuloni Valenitabua told the assessors that Henrich was outside Dragon Nightclub in Suva when the other six people were punching and kicking Sione Tufui.

Valenitabua told the assessors to consider one of the defense witnesses’ evidence, who he saw Henrich coming out of the nightclub but when he came out, Tufui was already dead.

He also told the assessors that if Henrich was involved in a fight inside the nightclub on the dance floor and if he threw two to three punches at Tufui, this could not cause Tufui’s death.

Valenitabua said medical report states that Tufui received serious injuries to his head that caused his death.

He said those six people should be charged, who kicked and punched Tufui outside the nightclub.

Meanwhille the cause of death for Tufui was because of a brain haemorrhage.

This was revealed by Dr James Kalougivaki of the Fiji Police Force's Forensic Pathology Unit in the High Court in Suva yesterday.

Dr Kalougivaki gave sworn evidence as the fifth prosecution witness in the trial.

In his examination in chief, Dr Kalougivaki, who performed the post-mortem examination on Tufui, informed the court of his findings.

He said during the post-mortem examination, he noticed the deceased's face was swollen, black and bloodshot eyes and his nose was also swollen with bruises. "The fluid that was extracted from the eyes had blood in it," Dr Kalougivaki said.

The forensic pathologist further stated the lips were swollen, there was a large cut on the lower lip, extensive bruising in the mouth and bruises on the chest.

Dr Kalougivai said as for the internal examination, there was an extensive bruising of the entire skull through the layers of the scalp.

He concluded the cause of death was a result of brain haemorrhage which was caused by a blunt force trauma from the alleged assault and the presence of multiple traumatic injuries.

He said this could have been caused by multiple stomping, kicking and punching

In her closing submission today the prosecution counsel, Juleen Fatiaki said that during cross examination Henrich admitted that he joined the fight outside the nightclub.

Fatiaki told the assessors that prosecution witness, Finau Leone saw Henrich at the CWM Hospital and at the Central Police Station and he identified him and maintained that Henrich was the person who punched and kicked Tufui.

She asked the assessors to consider Leone’s evidence that he was only ten steps far from the place where Tufui was being punched and kicked by some boys and he saw Henrich was one of them.

Justice Salesi Temo will sum up the case tomorrow afternoon.

Source: Fiji Village/ Fiji Times

ACTON, MASSACHUSETTS, USA, February 28, 2017 – Affirmed Networks, the leader in virtualized mobile networks, today announced that Digicel, an innovative mobile communications provider with operations in 31 markets, has selected its virtualized Mobile Content Cloud (MCC) solution for deployment across the Caribbean, Central America and Asia Pacific. This selection is a cornerstone in Digicel’s recently-announced “Digicel 2030” global transformation program designed to provide customers with a “superior superfast network experience.” The evolution to a 5G-ready, virtualized architecture will allow Digicel to embrace LTE today and 5G in the near future.

Digicel recognized the inflexibility of legacy solutions to improve network capacity across the markets it serves. Many of these markets are individual islands located across the Caribbean and Asia Pacific. Affirmed Networks’ fully-virtualized Mobile Content Cloud solution, enables Digicel to deploy a distributed virtualized network delivering consumer, enterprise and IoT service offerings across their dispersed geographies. The Affirmed MCC delivers the flexibility required to meet the changing needs of each market.

This deployment enables Digicel to flexibly tailor services based on the needs of each individual market, and to centrally-manage the services being delivered to the more than 31 countries in their coverage area. Overall operational expense and complexity associated with managing the network across their vast footprint is significantly reduced through service automation.

“As part of our 2030 network transformation program we are focused on providing our customers – regardless of location – with the best possible communications experience. Our move to a virtualized architecture supports this goal, allowing us to put in place a network capable of handling the unique needs and requirements of subscribers across diverse markets,” said Colm Delves, Group CEO, Digicel. “Throughout our transformation program we have been impressed with Affirmed Network’s market leading solution as it has delivered the ability to quickly deploy a next-generation network that will allow us to execute against our broader vision as a company and maximize our customers service experience.”

“With a focus on quality of their network and the services they offer, Digicel is an important force driving growth and prosperity in their region,” said Hassan Ahmed, Affirmed Networks' Chairman & CEO. “We are honored to support their continued innovation by providing Digicel with a fully virtualized, advanced, agile network capable of delivering LTE services today, and supporting 5G services as they become more broadly available.”

Today, Affirmed Networks has more than 50 customers across five continents, including some of the world’s largest and most innovative operators.

A RUSSIAN company has agreed to launch Papua New Guinea’s first satellite launch facility in New Ireland Province.

New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan said yesterday that the provincial government was having discussions with the Russians who have formed an international consortium for the spaceport.

"The region’s momentous satellite launch facility is alive. We are still in discussions with the Russians. We were supposed to fund their travel to New Ireland but have not done so due to funding issues," Sir Julius said when speaking on the impact project he announced two years ago.

Sir Julius said he was not in a position to release the name of the company which had the backing of the Russian Government and President Vladimir Putin. Details of the cost were not disclosed but it was estimated that the amount would be several billions of dollars.

"These are very delicate discussions," Sir Julius said.

"We do not want to pre-empt the work the consortium is doing to bring in international support for the project.

The managing company has already come to agreements with several international satellite launch companies which are actively searching for new sites near the equator from which to launch."

Sir Julius said New Ireland was in an ideal location for a satellite launch facility because of its location near the equator.

"Rockets lift off faster at the equator than at any other point on earth and use less fuel but more payload," explained a Russian scientist.

"We are currently working with the Government of Prime Minister Peter O’Neill to finalise the details of this project. When we have done that and consulted with the consortium we will make an announcement with full details. With the co-operation of the National Government this project will become a reality."

Sir Julius said that an international satellite launch facility would put New Ireland and Papua New Guinea on the international map. It would include an international airport and associated facilities. "It will be good for business and tourism and it will present no environmental issues such as those encountered in mining or related projects. It is something we look forward to as a key component of the future of New Ireland for many many years."
PNG Today/Post Courier/Press Release

Condolence messages for the late Governor General, Sir Michael Ogio, are pouring in from all over the world, including from national leaders.

A condolence message from Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, to Lady Esmie Ogio, says: “I am deeply grieved and saddened by the demise of His Excellency, Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio…I would like to convey my heartfelt condolences on behalf of the government and the people of Japan.

“I have fond memory of visiting your official residence to pay a courtesy call to Grand Chief Sir Ogio and you on the occasion of my visit to Papua New Guinea in 29 years as Prime Minister in July 2014. I was deeply impressed by the fact that Grand Chief Sir Ogio have cherished the amicable relationships with Japan since Independence in 1975, and that he has demonstrated a warm friendship by conveying that Papua New Guinea will continue to attach importance to the relationships with Japan.

“Grand Chief Sir Ogio not only held important positions such as Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Speaker of the National Parliament, but has also made long standing contribution to development and prosperity of Papua New Guinea,” says PM Abe.

“I sincerely respect that Grand Chief Sir Ogio played an important role to contribute to the peace process and reconstruction in Bougainville. I am confident that Grand Chief Sir Ogio will always remind your people of his great effort to unite Papua New Guinea. I would also like to pray for the peaceful repose of soul of Grand Chief Sir Ogio to you. ”

Governor General of Solomon Islands, Sir Frank Kabui, states: “I, my wife and the people of Solomon Islands learned with great sadness the passing away of the Late Grand Chief and Governor General of Papua New Guinea Sir Michael Ogio…I and my wife do have fond memories of the late Sir Michael, having met in London, Rarotonga, Nukualofa and Honiara in the past years.

“The people of Papua New Guinea have lost a great leader and statesman…We share with the people of Papua New Guinea in mourning his passing. May his Soul rest in peace.”

Governor of New Ireland Sir Julius Chan says Sir Michael was one of a truly rare breed of Papua New Guineans.

“He was not only a statesman of the first rank, he was, perhaps more importantly, a genuinely caring, loving and honourable human being.

“Over the years Sir Michael was involved in truly momentous chapters in the history of our country. He contributed mightily to the development of the province and people of Bougainville, and his other contributions to our young nation are too many to list here.

“I am deeply saddened by his passing, for I feel we have lost a strong vibrant voice that always argued for a reasoned and fair approach to solving our problems.

“On behalf of my wife Lady Chan and our family, Member for Namatanai Byron Chan and his family, the Provincial Government and the People of New Ireland, I want to express our deepest condolences at this time of sorrow.”

Ambassador of United States of America to PNG, H.E. Catherine Ebert-Gray, told Lady Esmie Ogio: “Your friends at the US Embassy are thinking of you and your loss with deep respect and pride for your selfless contributions. Sir Michael Ogio will be remembered for his wisdom and kindness, most of all.”

Ambassador of Japan to Papua New Guinea, H.E. Satoshi Nakajima, wrote: “The late Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio, was a dedicated and hardworking Representative of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea.

“He will be further remembered as one of Papua New Guinea’s great leaders for his outstanding contribution as a former Member of Parliament for North Bougainville, Cabinet Minister and recently as Governor General upon his demise.

“May God grant you the peace and courage that passes all understanding in this time of sorrow.”

Governor of Madang, Jim Kas, states: “My uncle, may you rest in peace.” Photo credit: Hon.Justin Tkatchenko

Papua New Guinea's Flag carrier Air Niugini, will commence new air services between Port Moresby and Townsville in North Queensland, Australia at the end of this month.

Air Niugini chief executive officer Simon Foo says Townsville already enjoys strong business and cultural links with PNG through its “sister city” relationship with Port Moresby.

“Air Niugini has evaluated and engaged in extensive discussions with the Townsville airport owners and operators, the mayor of Townsville, and the Townsville enterprise and local political and business leaders,” Foo said.

“This new service will open up important business, educational, sporting and people-to-people links.

“The new flights will also benefit Central and North Queensland business communities who can now better access PNG and other Pacific and Asian cities.

“This service has the potential to be an important addition to our regional “hub”. It will offer the citizens of Townsville and other centres such as Mackay and Mt Isa the efficient international “connection” they don’t currently have – transiting here before traveling to our major Asian centres such as Manila, Singapore and Hong Kong as well as Honiara, Nadi, Port Vila, Pohnpei and Chuuk in the Pacific,” he said.

Australian Awards, PNG LNG Scholarships program continues

Polye takes T.H.E Party to rural areas

Digicel gives Free Data to smartphone users

PNG senior men's football team prepares to take on Tahiti

Biggest trade mission showcases Tonga’s business potential

American Samoa Governor sends message of condolence to Tonga

Four Samoan companies at Pasifika Festival 2017

Top results for Samoan student from University of Waikato, New Zealand

Intending PNG Women Candidates take Parliament training

Electronic banking will revolutionise Papua New Guinea, says Westpac’s Pacific chief

New progress in China-Tonga civil aviation cooperation

Tonga's Trade in April 2016 records TOP$ 30 million deficit

UPNG Student bags Huawei P9 phone from Digicel in Valentine promotion

Wera out, Kauna in for SP PNG Hunters season opener against CQ Capras

Agreement signed between Oil and Gas developers and Shareholders in PNG

Julian Heinrich not part of group which killed Tongan student : Counsel

Digicel Selects Affirmed Networks as Strategic Partner for its Global Network Transformation Program

Russia to launch Satellite facility in PNG's New Ireland province

Japan's PM Abe sends condelonces to PNG's late GG Sir Michael's family

Air Niugini to fly to Townsville this month