PNG govt attacked for failing on budget promises
By Anthony Kaybing The 2010 national budget allocation for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville is still being questioned by the region’s leaders. Tsitalato Council of Elders Chairman, Joseph Gatana, supported a call by Acting President Mathias Salas who said the allocation is insufficient. Early this week, Mr Salas, who is also ABG Finance Minister, said he was disappointed that the PNG government has reduced the 2010 ABG budget allocation. Mr Salas said the government failed to keep its promise to increase the region’s recurrent grant and failed to allocate K15 million provided for under the Bougainville Peace Agreement. The reduction

Gender equality awareness training has success
By Tapo Tovilu The fight against domestic violence has taken a new direction with the training of youths and husbands on the importance of respecting women and treating women equally. Training officer attached with the Leitana Nehan Women’s Development Agency, Francis Semoso, is leading the first awareness workshop on domestic violence for youths and husbands. “Domestic violence in our country is a very serious issue and each year abou

Atoll needs neglected by government
By Anthony Kaybing Other atolls of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville are being neglected in relation to rising sea levels, according to the coordinator of Tulele Pesa, Ursula Rakova, because too much emphasis is being given to the Carterets Islands. “Mortlock, Tassman and Fead Islands are also facing the same problems as the Carterets,” said Mrs Rakova. She said financial assistance was a major hindrance in helping the atolls’ people.

Electricity project extends into the rural areas
By Sonia Kenu Bougainville leaders have applauded a K1.8 million initiative by PNG Power for a rural electrification scheme in the province. Chairman of Tsitalato Council of Elders, Joseph Gatana, expressed his gratitude and said people are very fortunate because the project didn’t cost them anything. He said the people will respond by not asking for any compensation from PNG Power for this project. Mr Gatana said the project will c

Colourful celebration to mark children’s day
By Tapo Tovilu Children from Hutjena Elementary, Hahela Elementary and Hangan Elementary schools celebrated children’s day in style recently. Event coordinator, headmistress Wendi Rimani of Hutjena Elementar