In this bulletin:
1. TONGA — Tonga PM calls for Climate adaptation investment, says resilience is Pacific’s top security challenge
2. PACIFIC —Not all bad news: SPREP highlights potential benefits of El Niño for some Pacific Island countries
3. PACIFIC — PM Wale heads to Fiji for key Pacific Troika talks
4. AUST — Australian South Sea Islanders hail Australia–Vanuatu Nakamal Agreement as historic recognition
5. PACIFIC — China gives US$1.08m to Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat
6. SAMOA — Vaimauga 3 back to a by-election: Samoa Supreme Court
7. NAURU — Nauru Marks Remembrance day honouring WWII exiles
8. PACIFIC — MSG Sub-Committee on Legal and Institutional Issues convened in Vanuatu
9. PNG — Military ends programme alongside other Pacific nations
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Partners to bridge crime funding gap: Fiji PM
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji remains the biggest source of PALM workers in New South Wales
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Pacific Business Trust chair accepts ‘full responsibility’ after trust’s turbulent year
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Strengthening capacity for safer handling of healthcare waste in Solomon Islands
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — Addressing a global challenge: A joint humanitarian, private and public sector response to healthcare waste management in Kiribati
TONGA – CLIMATE CHANGE: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Tonga PM calls for Climate adaptation investment, says resilience is Pacific’s top security challenge
NUKU’ALOFA, 30 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS)—Tonga Prime Minister Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua has called for greater investment in climate adaptation, saying Pacific Island countries face their biggest security challenge from climate change and need support to build resilient infrastructure, strengthen economies and prepare communities for a changing climate.
Speaking to Net Zero Investor, Lord Fakafanua said climate change has shaped Tonga’s development priorities because of the country’s vulnerability as a small island developing state.
“Climate change is not a new phenomenon. It’s something I grew up around and has had scientific consensus since the 1980s. Being a small island developing state, we are at the forefront of the effects of climate change. So it was really a no-brainer for development plans and proposals for the future that we ensure we are still around.
“Adapting to climate change and mitigating climate change has rightfully been adopted by Pacific Island countries as our premier security challenge,” he said in the interview.
The Prime Minister said responding to climate change requires investment in both mitigation and adaptation, but adaptation presents greater challenges.
“The response to climate change is two pronged. There’s mitigation and there’s adaptation. Mitigation is where a lot of investment in happening right now.”
“Adaptation is a lot more difficult. It is about learning to live with the changing climate and new weather conditions. That means we have to build sea walls or relocate people, which are both very expensive. It also means looking at nature-based solutions – replanting mangrove forests or trees – and investing in food technology so that crops are more resilient,” Lord Fakafanua said.
Lord Fakafanua said preparing Tonga for climate change also requires resilient infrastructure and stronger building standards.
“In order to prepare our people for climate change, we also need to have resilient infrastructure. That means relocating to higher locations and having building codes that can weather intense tropical cyclones.
That is something our economy is already burdened with heavily given that infrastructure through to 2030 is at a US$1.4bn deficit,” he said.
Lord Fakafanua said the Tonga Sustainable Economic Corridors and Urban Resilience Project is a key part of the country’s resilience plans.
“It really helps empower the whole theme of resilience through flood, drainage and water supply systems. It sounds boring but these are really the brick and mortar foundations of Tonga’s economic empowering,” he said.
Lord Fakafanua said one of the major investments under the project is a bridge that will improve transport and emergency response.
“Part of it is a large investment in a bridge. The bridge will help ensure urban migration is supported. It will cut commute time from town to the airport in half, so it adds efficiency to how much petroleum we’re consuming. The bridge also enables us to evacuate more efficiently in the event of a tsunami,” he said
The Prime Minister said attracting investment also requires Tonga to strengthen its investment environment.
“Part of the challenge we’re facing is to ensure that Tonga has an investment market and an economy conducive for growth. We need to develop our back offices.”
“We have to have necessary regulations, backstops and investment protections in place. It is also important to recognise that we have a unique land tenure system that protects the rights of the Tongan people. For some investors that might be unwieldly to understand but we do have leases available for investors. You can lease up to 99 years and as an investment vehicle that should be sufficient to alleviate a lot of concerns,” he explained.
Lord Fakafanua said the transition to renewable energy is also central to Tonga’s energy security and economic future.
“Absolutely. Decarbonising and insulating ourselves from external shocks is part and parcel of our energy ambitions. It’s not only good for the climate, but also for the economy.”
He said renewable energy could create opportunities across multiple sectors.
“From renewable energy, we’ll be able to desalinate water, enable more industries, more tourism, larger hotels, small manufacturing and also data centres. If renewable energy is at a competitive price, AI data centres could be set up in Tonga.
In enabling fronter markets and new technologies, we are technology agnostic. As long as we have enough baseload power to substitute diesel generation in Tonga, we can sprinkle our energy mix with renewable energy on top of that,” the Tongan PM said.
Lord Fakafanua also urged institutional investors to consider the impact their investments could have in Tonga.
“Look beyond the obvious. A lot of investors will see Tonga as an exotic and small market. I think you need to look at this from an impact perspective. Whether the investment is at US$100m or US$500m or a billion, the impact you’re realising at that level is quite high. Our government has been around for five months now and we’re looking to open Tonga up for institutional investment.”
“If you want to make a difference, Tonga will welcome your investment,” he said…. PACNEWS
PAC – WEATHER WATCH: SPREP PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Not all bad news: SPREP highlights potential benefits of El Niño for some Pacific island countries
APIA, 30 JUNE 2026 (SPREP)—-While El Niño is often associated with drought and extreme prolonged dry conditions for the western Pacific and wetter than normal conditions in the central and easter Pacific, experts from the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) say the naturally-occurring climate phenomenon can also bring opportunities for some Pacific Island countries.
Representatives from the Climate and Oceans Support Programme in the Pacific Phase 3 (COSPPac3), the Intra-ACP Climate Services and Applications (ClimSA) project and the Republic of Korea-Pacific Islands Climate Prediction Services (ROK-PI CliPS) project reaffirmed that an El Niño event has been declared and outlined what Pacific communities can expect in the coming months.
According to ROK-PI CliPS Project Coordinator, Tile Tofaeono, El Niño is one of three phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a naturally occurring cycle and part of the global climate system that influences rainfall, winds, and ocean conditions across the Pacific.
“There are three phases of ENSO – Neutral, El Niño and La Niña. These phases typically change every two to seven years and usually last between nine and 12 months, although some events can persist for up to two years,” Tofaeono said.
During El Niño, warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures and weaker trade winds increase the likelihood of below-normal rainfall across much of the western Pacific, including American Samoa, southern Cook Islands, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, southern French Polynesia, Guam, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, New Caledonia, Niue, northern Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, southern Tokelau, Tonga, southern Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Wallis and Futuna.
For countries in the central and eastern Pacific, El Niño will mean cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures and above-normal rainfall.
According to COSPPac3 Senior Climatologist, Philip Malsale, these wetter conditions could bring important benefits for low-lying atoll nations.
“Countries such as Kiribati, Nauru and Tuvalu depend heavily on limited freshwater resources. While increased rainfall during El Niño will mean potential flooding for these countries, it will also be an opportunity to replenish freshwater lenses and improve water security, providing long-term benefits even after conditions return to neutral,” Malsale said.
Kiribati could also experience increased tuna catches as ocean temperatures around the area become warmer than normal.
The warm pool area is loved by the tuna, which will migrate towards the central and eastern Pacific following the movement of this warm pool during El Niño. This warm water will meet the colder, nutrient rich waters of the eastern Pacific packed with planktons and small fish which tuna rely on for feed. This biological shift pushes international fishing fleets to these countries as well, increasing fishing licenses and boosting national revenue.
Meanwhile, countries in the western Pacific experiencing drier conditions could also find opportunities amid the challenges.
Malsale said prolonged dry periods can provide favourable conditions for infrastructure development, particularly projects that are often delayed by heavy rainfall periods. It is a time for the national government to roll out big infrastructure projects because there will be below normal rainfall and lot of sunshine hours and cooler temperatures.
Dry weather may also benefit tourism by bringing more sunshine and allowing visitors to enjoy a wider range of outdoor activities which can bring these economic benefits to the rural communities.
Increased sunshine and sometimes windy conditions could further support greater use of renewable energy, with increased contribution of wind and solar to the main power grid. This will greatly help countries mitigate the impacts of the ongoing global fuel crisis which has caused fuel prices to increase dramatically. This will also provide farmers with the opportunity to explore alternative livestock feed options and better manage existing stock during the dry season.
Despite these opportunities, Malsale stressed that Pacific communities should continue preparing for the impacts of El Niño.
“El Niño is a slow-onset event and its impacts will not be felt immediately, but rather gradually over time,” he said.
“These events are all part of our normal climate system and are completely natural. While we may be entering El Niño now, we won’t always be in this state. What is taken away during this phase will be replenished during the next phases, and the cycle will continue.”
“While it won’t all be bad news, we urge our Pacific communities to prepare now, reach out to their National Meteorological and Hydrological Service and sectors for specific advice, so that they and their families can benefit later,” Malsale concluded…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: INDEPTH SOLOMONS PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
PM Wale heads to Fiji for key Pacific Troika talks
HONIARA, 30 JUNE 2206 (INDEPTH SOLOMONS)—Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale leaves today for Fiji on his fourth overseas trip since taking office, where he will attend the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Troika Meeting in his capacity as Forum Chair.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Press Office said Wale is expected to arrive at Nausori Airport this evening, where he will be welcomed with a 50-member Guard of Honour.
The statement said the Government of Fiji had elevated the visit to an official visit in recognition of Wale’s role as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum.
Fiji will also accord the Prime Minister a traditional welcome ceremony.
During his visit, Wale will pay a courtesy call on the President of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, at the State House.
He is also scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Fiji’s Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka.
The Troika is a leadership mechanism of the Pacific Islands Forum comprising the current Chair, the immediate past Chair and the incoming Chair.
It provides political leadership and continuity between the Forum’s annual Leaders’ Meetings.
Prime Minister Wale, who assumed office on 15 May, is expected to return to Honiara on Friday.
The Fiji trip follows a one-day visit to Papua New Guinea last Friday, where Wale held talks with Prime Minister James Marape and Governor-General Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae.
His previous overseas visits as Prime Minister were to Australia and New Zealand…..PACNEWS
AUST – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS/ASSPIJ PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Australian South Sea Islanders hail Australia–Vanuatu Nakamal Agreement as historic recognition
CANBERRA, 30 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS/ASSIPJ)—The Australian South Sea Islanders (Port Jackson) (ASSIPJ) has welcomed the signing of the Australia–Vanuatu Nakamal Agreement, describing it as a historic step that strengthens Pacific partnership while formally recognising the shared history and enduring cultural connections between Australian South Sea Islanders and the people of Vanuatu.
ASSIPJ congratulated the Governments of Australia and Vanuatu on signing the agreement, saying it goes beyond a bilateral treaty.
“This landmark agreement represents far more than a bilateral treaty. It reflects a shared commitment to Pacific-led partnership, cultural respect, climate resilience, economic cooperation and regional security, founded on the Melanesian values of dialogue, trust and mutual understanding embodied by the concept of the Nakamal,” it said in a statement.
ASSIPJ said it particularly welcomed the agreement’s recognition of the cultural connections between First Nations Australians, Australian South Sea Islanders and the people of Vanuatu.
“ASSIPJ particularly welcomes the inclusion within the Agreement of the enduring cultural connections between First Nations Australians, Australian South Sea Islanders and the people of Vanuatu.”
The organisation said the agreement formally acknowledges the shared history of Australian South Sea Islanders and the legacy of the blackbirding era.
“For the first time within a bilateral agreement of this significance, the shared history of Australian South Sea Islanders and the legacy of the blackbirding era have been formally acknowledged. The commitment to strengthen dialogue between communities affected by this history and to develop pathways that acknowledge the past, embrace the present and build for the future represents an important act of recognition, reconciliation and hope.”
ASSIPJ said it has spent two decades advocating for recognition of Australian South Sea Islanders and their role in connecting Australia and the Pacific.
“As the nationally elected and uncontested representative body and National Secretariat for Australian South Sea Islanders, ASSIPJ has advocated for some two decades for the recognition of our community and the important role Australian South Sea Islanders continue to play as a living bridge between Australia and the Pacific.”
The organisation said its work is based on self-determination, community accountability and longstanding relationships with Vanuatu.
“Our work is grounded in self-determination, community accountability, cultural authority and relationships that predate both Federation and the Commonwealth’s formal recognition of Australian South Sea Islanders in 1994. Those relationships continue today through longstanding partnerships with the Government of Vanuatu, chiefs, ministers, community organisations and grassroots communities built on trust, reciprocity and shared cultural values.”
ASSIPJ acknowledged the leadership of Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat and the Vanuatu Government, as well as the Australian Government, for advancing the agreement.
“ASSIPJ also acknowledges the leadership of the Honourable Prime Minister Jotham Napat and the Government of Vanuatu for their ongoing commitment to people-to-people diplomacy and the recognition of Australian South Sea Islanders as part of the wider Pacific family. We likewise commend the Australian Government for reaffirming its commitment to strengthening Pacific partnerships through mutual respect, shared sovereignty and enduring friendship.”
The organisation said the agreement confirms the historical and cultural ties between Australian South Sea Islanders and Vanuatu while creating an opportunity for descendants of the blackbirding era to be involved in implementing Article 2 of the agreement.
“The Agreement’s recognition of Australian South Sea Islanders affirms what our communities have always known, that our histories, identities and futures remain intrinsically connected to Vanuatu. It also creates an important opportunity to ensure descendants of the blackbirding era are meaningfully included in implementing Article 2, Enduring Cultural Connections, which commits both governments to strengthening community dialogue and developing pathways that acknowledge this shared history.”
ASSIPJ said implementation should be guided by Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property principles, self-determination and community-led engagement.
“ASSIPJ believes implementation of this commitment should be guided by Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) principles, self-determination and community-led engagement. Australian South Sea Islander descendants must be recognised not only as beneficiaries of this work but as partners in its design, delivery and future direction.”
The organisation highlighted its partnership with the Government of Vanuatu and the City of Sydney Council through the Yumi Olgeta: Crafting a More Inclusive Democracy initiative as an example of community-led cooperation.
“Through initiatives such as the Yumi Olgeta: Crafting a More Inclusive Democracy, existing partnership since 2019 with the Government of Vanuatu and City of Sydney Council, ASSIPJ has demonstrated how cultural diplomacy, truth-telling, women’s economic participation, heritage preservation and community leadership can strengthen Australia-Vanuatu relations through shared values and mutual respect.”
ASSIPJ said its work has received national and international recognition.
“Our organisation has been recognised nationally and internationally for this work, including receiving the NSW Premier’s International Human Rights Award (2020) for our contributions across Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands and the Pacific. These achievements demonstrate the power of community-led diplomacy in advancing reconciliation, climate resilience, cultural exchange and enduring Pacific partnerships.”
The organisation said the signing of the agreement marks the start of a new phase in Australia-Vanuatu relations.
“Today’s signing is not the end of a conversation; it is the beginning of a new chapter.”
ASSIPJ said it looks forward to working with both governments and other partners to implement the agreement.
“ASSIPJ looks forward to working collaboratively with both governments, the Vanuatu High Commission, DFAT, First Nations leaders and Pacific communities to ensure the aspirations of the Nakamal Agreement translate into meaningful outcomes for future generations.”
The organisation said the agreement reflects the importance of relationships between communities as well as governments.
“The spirit of the Nakamal reminds us that the strongest agreements are built not only between governments, but between families, communities and peoples whose histories and futures are forever intertwined”…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: PIFS PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
China gives US$1.08m to Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat
SUVA, 30 JUNE 2026 (PIFS)—The People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its commitment to regional development and cooperation by formally handing over a contribution of US$1.08 million to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) under the China-Pacific Islands Forum Cooperation Fund.
The contribution was formally presented this week by the Chinese Embassy in Fiji’s Chargé d’Affaires Wang Yuan, and received by Acting Secretary General Esala Nayasi, at the Forum Secretariat in Suva.
The funding will support Forum priorities aligned with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, providing critical resources to advance regional development objectives and strengthen economic cooperation across Forum member countries.
Welcoming the contribution, Acting Secretary General Nayasi thanked the Government of the People’s Republic of China for its longstanding partnership and support to the Pacific region.
“The Pacific Trade Invest Office in Beijing, for which the People’s Republic of China has hosted over the years, is such a critical part to the deepened and strengthened relationship as it pertains to trade and investment. We appreciate and acknowledge the level of investment and commitment China has made in the region as part of the Forum Dialogue Partners” said Acting Secretary General Nayasi.
Nayasi noted that the contribution reflects the longstanding partnership between the Forum and China and supports shared efforts to advance sustained development, economic resilience and regional prosperity.
The funding also underscores China’s ongoing engagement as a Forum Dialogue Partner and builds on decades of cooperation with Pacific Islands countries in areas including trade, investment, agriculture, fisheries, infrastructure and sustainable development.
In remarks during the handover ceremony, Wang reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Pacific Islands countries and the Pacific Islands Forum.
“China will always be a good and reliable friend as well as a partner to the Pacific Islands countries,” Wang said.
China has been a Forum Dialogue Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum since 1990. The China – Pacific Islands Forum Cooperation Fund, established in 2000, supports cooperation in areas including trade, investment, tourism and people-to-people exchanges, contributing to the shared development aspirations of Pacific Island countries….PACNEWS
SAMOA – BI ELECTION: TALAMUA MEDIA PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Vaimauga 3 back to a by-election: Samoa Supreme Court
APIA, 30 JUNE 2026 (TALAMUA MEDIA)— The Samoa Supreme Court Monday declared the Vaimauga 3 constituency parliamentary seat void after their Member of Parliament, Lautimuia Uelese Vaai was found guilty of corrupt and illegal practises.
Ten allegations of corrupt and illegal practices against Lautimua were proven beyond reasonable doubt.
The allegations against Lautimuia stemmed from giving money to voters at a meeting held at Leone, Matautu-tai and Vaoala.
Lautimuia, won last months by-election by a huge margin and was sworn in last month and spoke on the Budget that parliament passed last Thursday night.
Also found guilty is the Petitioner, Taioaliiseu Fiti Aimaasu on 4 allegations of corrupt and illegal practices.
Three parliamentary seats are now vacant with Safata 1 going to a by election in July after its MP resigned from the HRPP and switched allegiances to the ruling FAST Party.
The court dismissed the motion by the Falealili 1 MP for a judicial review based on constitutional rights, meaning the Electoral Court s decision that found the MP guilty of bribery is upheld and voids the seat.
The Court will inform the Speaker on todays two court decisions which will effectively call for by elections.
The court decision rules out the parties from running as candidates in the upcoming election…..PACNEWS
NAURU – REMEMBERANCE DAY: PACNEWS/NAURU GOVT PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Nauru marks Remembrance Day honouring WWII exiles
YAREN, 30 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS/NAURU GOVT)—Nauru has marked Remembrance Day, commemorating the 83rd anniversary of the exile of the first group of dei-Naoero to Chuuk during World War II and honouring those who endured hardship both overseas and at home.
According to the Nauru Government, 29 June marks the day in 1943 when the first of two groups of dei-Naoero was exiled to Chuuk by occupying forces during World War II.
“On this day, 29 June, in 1943 the first of two groups of dei-Naoero was exiled to Chuuk by the occupying forces during World War II. Leaving families and their homeland behind, they faced unimaginable hardship, uncertainty, hunger, disease and loss. Those they left behind on Naoero, suffered similar hardships and struggles.”
The Government said the day is dedicated to remembering those who suffered during the war.
“29 June, is Naoero’s Remembrance Day. We remember them and we honour their lives, courage, and their enduring spirit.”
Chair of the Chuuk Steering Committee and Minister Charmaine Scotty paid tribute to the survivors for rebuilding the nation after the war.
“Let us honour their memory, not only with words, but through our actions – by caring for one another, observing our heritage, strengthening our communities, and building a peaceful and prosperous future for all dei-Naoero.”
The Government said President David Adeang laid the first wreath during the commemoration marking the 83rd anniversary of the exile.
The ceremony included prayers, hymns and scripture readings led by emcee Kaelyn Dekarube, while the Nauru Police Force stood guard as the national flag was lowered to half-mast, followed by a one-minute silence.
The service concluded with wreath-laying by members of Cabinet, Parliament, dignitaries, senior government officials and church representatives.
The Government said this is the second year that 29 June has been commemorated as Remembrance Day….PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: MSG SECRETARIAT PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
MSG Sub-Committee on Legal and Institutional Issues convened in Vanuatu
PORT VILA, 30 JUNE 2026 (MSG SECRETARIAT) — The 14th meeting of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat Sub-Committee on Legal and Institutional Issues (SCLII) was convened last week in Vanuatu in line with its mandate to deliberate on key legal, governance, and institutional reforms affecting Melanesia and the Secretariat.
Chaired by Ropate Green Lomavatu, Solicitor-General of Fiji, the meeting was convened after a lapse of eight years and attended by representatives from the MSG membership.
In his opening remarks, SG Lomavatu welcomed Members saying their participation demonstrated their commitment to the work of the SCLII and to the unity of MSG.
He reminded Members of the importance of being guided by the Agreement Establishing the MSG, international legal principles, and the long-term institutional interests of the MSG family.
Acting Director General (ADG), Ilan Kiloe said the Sub-Committee plays a vital role in strengthening the legal and institutional foundations of the MSG Secretariat, ensuring that its frameworks remain robust, responsive, and fit for purpose in an evolving regional and global environment.
He emphasised the importance of matters relating to governance, accountability, and institutional effectiveness, with a focus on transparency, adaptability, and resilience.
He added that constructive engagement and practical, forward-looking outcomes would help strengthen institutional systems and support the trust placed in the MSG by the Leaders, stakeholders, and communities…..PACNEWS
PNG – DEFENCE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 2: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Military ends programme alongside other Pacific nations
PORT MORESBY, 30 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) concluded the Pan Pacific Lead Systems Programme in Port Moresby on Wednesday.
The programme, held from 17-24 June, brought together participants from, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and PNG under the Kumul Leadership Framework.
Chief of Defence Force, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, thanked the participating nations for their support and contribution to the training and PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
“Leadership matters because it affects every aspect of a nation,” Polewara said.
“If there is no quality education and no quality health, the population will suffer.
“We can have diplomacy, information, military and economic power.
“But all these things revolve around leadership.”
Polewara said leadership determined how national resources and institutions were used and whether a country progressed.
“It is the leader that makes the decisions that affect the sources of power and the instruments of power,” he said.
“A leader can drag a country into conflict, confrontation and loss of resources, or a leader can guide a country towards prosperity.”
Polewara also challenged participants to think beyond their roles and organisations.
“We may take it lightly because it is lead systems, but it should lead to capability and eventually leadership at the organisational level,” he said.
Since its establishment, with support from the New Zealand government, the Kumul Leadership Centre has developed leaders and delivered leadership development programmes to more than 830 PNGDF personnel across PNG.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, PNGDF officer Captain Rachael Torovi thanked all participating countries and organisers for delivering a valuable learning experience.
“I would like to thank Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, New Zealand and of course PNG for participation towards this course,” Torovi said.
“This course has been amazing, and has given us the opportunity to broaden our horizons.”
She said the programme allowed participants to learn from each other’s cultures, experiences and leadership approaches.
“We have all learned from our cultures and leadership experiences, and we are motivated now to go out into the real world and apply the knowledge that we have learned,” Torovi said.
The Pan Pacific Lead Systems Programme is part of a broader effort to build a common leadership language across PNG and the Pacific by strengthening cooperation among defence forces…PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
FIJI – FUNDING SUPPORT: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Partners to bridge crime funding gap: Fiji PM
SUVA, 30 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN) —Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says Fiji’s international partners will help bridge funding gaps created by reduced budget allocations for the Fiji Police Force’s fight against transnational crime.
Rabuka Monday dismissed concerns that the cuts signalled a weakening of the Government’s commitment to tackling organised crime.
“A lot of the gaps that are going to appear, or appear to appear, will be covered by our partners,” Rabuka told the Fiji Sun after the Constitutional Offices Commission meeting.
The Fiji Police Force’s Transnational Crime Unit was allocated $6,000(US$3,000) in the 2026-2027 National Budget, part of a broader $13.8 million(US$6.9 million) reduction in the Force’s overall allocation.
The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), whose Navy patrols Fiji’s 1.3 million square kilometres of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), also had its budget reduced by $15.2 million(US$7.6 million), from $167.8 million(US$83.9 million) to $152.6 million(US$76 million).
Despite the funding cuts, the Fiji Police Force and the RFMF have intensified joint nationwide operations, including snap checkpoints and coordinated deployments targeting criminal drug networks.
The reduced funding comes despite Fiji hosting the inaugural Pacific Transnational Crime Summit in May with the Australian Federal Police, where Pacific police chiefs pledged stronger regional cooperation to combat organised crime, illicit drugs and corruption.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu said Pacific communities were already feeling the effects of transnational crime and called for stronger public support for law enforcement.
Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua yesterday said transnational organised crime, illicit drug trafficking and illegal fishing required practical cooperation among trusted partners.
The Government has allocated $1.6 million (US$800,000) to support narcotics operations and the continued establishment of the Counter Narcotics Bureau as the country’s central agency for coordinating the fight against illicit drugs…. PACNEWS
AUST – PALM WORKERS: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Fiji remains the biggest source of PALM workers in New South Wales
CANBERRA, 30 JUNE 2026 (FIJI TIMES) —Fiji continues to be the largest contributor of Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) workers in New South Wales, with 1,190 Fijians employed across the Australian state as of April 2026, according to the latest PALM Scheme data.
The figures show 355 women and 835 men from Fiji are working under the scheme, making Fiji the largest workforce among the 10 participating Pacific countries in New South Wales.
Overall, New South Wales hosts 5,710 PALM workers, with Fijians accounting for just over one in every five workers.
Vanuatu ranks second with 920 workers, followed by the Solomon Islands (810), Papua New Guinea (805), Samoa (670), Timor-Leste (515), Kiribati (400), Tonga (330), Tuvalu (65) and Nauru (5).
Across all participating countries, male workers make up 80.4 percent of the workforce (4,590), while female workers account for 19.6 percent (1,120).
The PALM scheme enables eligible Australian employers to recruit workers from Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste to address labour shortages, while providing participants with employment opportunities, skills development and income that supports families and communities back home….PACNEWS
NZ – BUSINESS: PMN PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Pacific Business Trust chair accepts ‘full responsibility’ after trust’s turbulent year
AUCKLAND, 30 JUNE 2026 (PMN)—Chairman Uluomato’otua Saulaulu Aiono says the Pacific Business Trust (PBT) board takes “complete responsibility” for the organisation’s turbulent year, as it works to rebuild trust after leadership upheaval and public scrutiny.
The government-funded organisation receives around $5.8 million (US$3.27 million) of annual Government funding and supports more than 2000 Pacific-owned businesses across New Zealand, generating more than $1 billion (US$560 million) in revenue.
Former chief executive Mary Lo’se resigned last month after a turbulent period that also included payouts to two former staff, after a mishandled restructuring process.
Aiono, who was appointed chair in November 2025, says responsibility sits with the board.
“The board is the employer of the chief executive, and the board, past and present, including the one that I chair, takes complete responsibility,” Aiono told Pacific Mornings.
Changes are already underway, including PBT’s move from Penrose to Manukau, reducing rent and operating costs by about $150,000(US$84,000) a year.
PBT’s new strategic plan, covering 2026 to 2030, begins on 1 July, with head of operations Tracey Alenepi appointed interim chief executive while recruitment begins for a permanent CEO.
Aiono says public scrutiny is necessary and criticism can drive change.
“There is no better place for it to play out. Accountability must be public. That’s exactly where these things should be evident to taxpayers.
“Our role at Pacific Business Trust, starting with the board and management, is to listen constructively to understand. Without listening to understand, nothing changes.”
Improving Pacific businesses’ access to capital is a major priority, with PBT exploring a Pacific-focused capital or venture fund to help businesses scale, similar to the Icehouse.
Aiono says stronger Māori-Pacific partnerships could also help unlock investment, pointing to iwi as long-term strategic investors.
“My question is, what are examples where iwi and Māori have invested in Pacific-orientated businesses? The answer is not many, but it’s coming.”
But some Pacific business leaders say rebuilding trust will take time.
Laura Keil-Hall, founder and chief executive of the Pacific Business Hub, says the trust has faced longstanding credibility issues, with many businesses feeling excluded.
“They haven’t had a good reputation, with a lot of historical challenges. There wasn’t a lot of transparency or accountability from them in the past,” she tells PMN News.
“I’ve been in this space for about 15 years and observed different leaders come through the Trust. I felt they weren’t doing the job they were supposed to do, but I’m very happy to see movement in the last few months, so I think they’re on the right path.”
Keil-Hall says she is encouraged by the new board and PBT’s move to Manukau.
“Finally, they’ve come to Manukau, because I think where they were before was inaccessible to our people.
“We’re a small community, and even smaller when it comes to our businesses, so we need to work together, support each other and uplift each other, because it’s our people who suffer if we don’t.”
Rachel Afeaki, chair of the Waikato Pacific Business Network, says stronger regional engagement will be essential if PBT wants to unlock more capital and support growth outside Auckland.
She tells PMN Pacific businesses outside Auckland have been forgotten in the past.
“What does it mean to be national if you’re not authentically engaged with your regions?”
PMN has approached the Minister for Pacific Peoples, Paul Goldsmith, for comment.
As PBT looks to reset under new leadership, both supporters and critics agree its success will depend on whether it can rebuild trust and deliver meaningful results for Pacific businesses…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Strengthening capacity for safer handling of healthcare waste in Solomon Islands
HONIARA, 30 JUNE 2206 (SPREP)—Healthcare waste in the Pacific region is increasing in volume as populations grow and medical services expand. Those exposed to healthcare waste are more at risk of injury and negative impacts, to protect workers and patients, training and education is an important part of effective healthcare waste management.
In the Solomon Islands, healthcare workers enhanced their capacity through a tailored training programme, increasing their confidence in implementing safe healthcare waste management systems ahead of the opening of the new Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre (BUHC).
The Naha BUHC Healthcare Waste Management (HCWM) Training programme was delivered 18 – 22 May, through a partnership between the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services through the Honiara City Council (HCC) and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program (SIIP).
Using SPREP’s regional European Union funded PacWastePlus train-the-trainer package, SPREP Hazardous Waste Management Adviser, Soseala Tinilau said the package was tailored specifically to the needs of the Naha BUHC context, specifically on birthing and urban health.
“We focused on the fundamentals for healthcare workers, waste segregation, colour coding, infection control, personal protective equipment, sharps management, and spill response.”
Using this knowledge as a foundation, participants then shifted to the actual facility for practical, on-site training, internal transport, storage, placental and pathological waste protocols, treatment and disposal pathways, site walkthroughs, and monitoring.
“Conducting training activities inside the new Naha BUHC facility allowed staff to practice waste flows, bin placement, storage, and spill response in their actual future workspace. This on-site approach significantly improves readiness and long-term system retention”, said Tinilau.
Twenty two staff undertook the training programme, with participants ranging from clinical staff cleaners, Infection and Prevention Control focal points from Naha BUHC and other HCC clinics, environmental health officers, and HCC management.
Charlene Macleod, SIIP Health Advisor highlighted the strong engagement of healthcare practitioners in the training programme as a testament of national commitment to enhancing healthcare waste management in the Solomon Islands.
In ensuring sustainability of the capacity building initiative, a facility specific Healthcare Waste Management Plan Template was developed for the BUHC, as well Standard Operating Procedures for segregation, storage, spill response, needlestick injuries.
The training programme has equipped a cohort Infection Prevention and Control and operations focal persons, who will pass on their knowledge to others through a training-of-trainers approach.
HCC Provincial Health Director Dr Lawrence Diau presented certificates to the participants and thanked SPREP for the high-quality standard of the training. He also noted participants were eager to apply learnings not only at Naha BUHC but across all HCC facilities.
The successful delivery of the Naha BUHC Healthcare Waste Management (HCWM) Training programme represents a new chapter of national commitment to sound healthcare waste management in the Solomon Islands supported by strong partnerships…..PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Addressing a global challenge: A joint humanitarian, private and public sector response to healthcare waste management in Kiribati
TARAWA, 30 JUNE 2026 (BFS)—A new initiative to strengthen healthcare waste management in Kiribati has been launched through a unique cross-sector partnership between the Government of Kiribati, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), and international waste management specialists BlackForest Solutions (BFS).
Kiribati’s limited, fragmented, and low-lying land area creates severe constraints for healthcare waste management. With scarce suitable land available, there are few safe options for the treatment, storage, disposal, or long-term isolation of hazardous medical waste, particularly in ways that keep it separated from communities, water sources, and fragile coastal ecosystems.
With limited disposal options available, most waste that enters Kiribati remains there. Over time, the accumulation and disposal of medical waste, particularly at Tungaru Central Hospital (TCH) in Tarawa, has placed considerable strain on existing systems.
“When medical waste is not managed effectively, it can have negative consequences for communities, contributing to environmental damage, including soil contamination, toxic air pollutants and ecosystem disruption,” says Peter Clausen, Head of Mission for MSF in Kiribati.
Kiribati is a small island nation in the central Pacific, made up of 33 low-lying coral atolls. Its total land area is just over 800 square kilometres, only slightly larger than Singapore, but with land dispersed across approximately 3.5 million square kilometres of ocean. Much of the country sits only a few metres above sea level, leaving communities and infrastructure exposed to tidal surges, coastal flooding, erosion, and other climate-related pressures.
The Kiribati Health Care Waste Management project represents an integrated, cross-sector approach that brings together government, humanitarian, and private sector technical expertise to address a complex public health and environmental issue. It is designed not only to respond to Kiribati’s immediate needs but also to offer a practical and scalable model for other island nations facing similar challenges.
“Countries like Kiribati carry a disproportionate burden from waste and climate pressures that originate far beyond their borders. We are not solving that. What we are doing is building a waste management system that is functional, compliant, and designed to last,” says Sebastian Frisch, co-founder of BlackForest Solutions.
By strengthening healthcare waste management systems, the initiative aims to reduce risks to human health, protect fragile island environments, and support compliant and sustainable healthcare waste management systems for the people of Kiribati.
This challenge is not unique to Kiribati.
The United Nations Environment Programme has identified that Small Island Developing States (SIDS) across the Pacific face the same constraints: limited land, climate vulnerability, and waste infrastructure that has not kept pace with demand.
The Government of Kiribati, in partnership with MSF and supported by BFS, is now delivering a direct response to this challenge: a comprehensive healthcare waste management project at the country’s national referral hospital.
The initiative aims to establish a sustainable, compliant, and effective system aligned with international standards, including the Basel Convention on hazardous waste.
There are three phases of the project:
*The safe removal of legacy hazardous medical waste through a process called Transfrontier Shipment (TFS), under the Basel Convention, the international treaty governing the movement of hazardous waste across borders, for compliant treatment and disposal abroad.
*Improvements to infrastructure and operational practices at TCH, including enhanced waste segregation, upgraded incineration processes, and training for local healthcare workers with the goal of development of a long-term, circular waste management system.
*The design and implementation of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system to provide a sustainable financing mechanism for ongoing healthcare waste management.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), in partnership with international waste management experts Black Forest Solutions (BFS), and the Government of Kiribati, are operating a healthcare waste management project in Kiribati to strengthen safe, sustainable waste practices and protect public health and the environment.
Additionally, MSF operates a climate-sensitive health care project in Kiribati in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, addressing non-communicable diseases, particularly in women and children, as well as improving long-term access to safe water to support public health needs….PACNEWS
For more information visit: https://rainbowforest.org/blackforest-solutions/
