Latest news in Papua New Guinea? September 3rd, 2026

Here are the key news developments in Papua New Guinea for September 3, 2026:

• 2026 Supplementary Budget Passed: Parliament approved this year’s Supplementary Budget, featuring a net increase of K1.33 billion (raising total 2026 expenditure to K32.245 billion). Prime Minister James Marape and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso highlighted that the belt-tightening measures are targeted at cushioning citizens from rising living costs, international fuel price spikes, and severe weather impacts. Key allocations include a K1.11 billion fuel relief and GST subsidy package, K500 million dedicated to national El Niño relief, and K150 million for Electoral Commission preparations ahead of the 2027 General Election. The National+ 2
• Severe El Niño and Drought Impact: Prolonged drought conditions across the Highlands continue to disrupt agriculture. Fresh farm produce prices have surged, doubling in markets such as Mount Hagen, prompting emergency relief appeals from commercial livestock and crop farmers in provinces like Jiwaka. Post Courier+ 1
• Diplomacy & Pacific Islands Forum: Prime Minister Marape departed for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Palau, focusing on regional unity, climate challenges, and transnational security cooperation. Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council
• Historic Legal Appointment: Roalakona made national history by officially taking office as Papua New Guinea’s first female Public Prosecutor. thepngbulletin.com
• Bilateral Digital Forensics & Security: In Port Moresby, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Cyber Division, in partnership with the United States Embassy and Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, advanced its first joint digital forensics training course (CYBER/BIRDE) to bolster national cybersecurity and evidence preservation capabilities. Islands Business
• Anti-Money Laundering Legislation: Parliament engaged in active floor debates over newly tabled anti-money laundering and financial governance bills aimed at strengthening cross-border financial oversight.