In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Iran war on Pacific agenda as Christopher Luxon jets to Samoa, Tonga for meetings
2. PACIFIC — CROP Heads meet amidst evolving Regional and Global Environment
3. PACIFIC — Former Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General Sir Noel Levi dies
4. FIJI — $1m set aside for Fiji constitutional review commission to carry out its work
5. PNG — International pressure must not dictate law enforcement: PNG Police Minister
6. FIJI — Fiji files intervention in Gaza genocide case at ICJ
7. PACIFIC — Pacific broadcasters rethink news delivery in digital age
8. PACNEWS BIZ — PNG Govt ‘prepared’ for potential fuel price hike
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Marshall Islands digital currency debuts this month in limited form
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Price for Madang kava at almost K50 per kilo
11. PACNEWS BIZ — ‘Dream holidays’ in disarray, trips diverted as travellers count cost of Iran war
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — Kiribati and Samoa to receive new ocean monitoring buoys under EU funded ClimSA Pacific
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Tonga Met raises the bar on Aviation supporting safe skies and stronger tourism
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — Magnifying Pacific Women Voices in Environmental and Social Impact Assessments
15. PACNEWS DIGEST — Book shows decades of policy failing Pacific peoples
Iran war on Pacific agenda as Christopher Luxon jets to Samoa, Tonga for meetings
WELLINGTON/APIA, 16 MARCH 2026 (THE POST) — New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is off to Samoa, then Tonga as their new governments grapple with a scourge of drug trafficking.
Criminal groups are increasingly using the Pacific as a ‘drug highway,’ its vast expanse of ocean an appealing route for smuggling cocaine and methamphetamine from Latin America or Asia to lucrative markets like Australia and New Zealand.
The guts of Luxon’s trip will focus on transnational crime and how to better collaborate with – and build capability in – the Pacific nations.
The seriousness in which the Government is taking drug trafficking is evidenced by who was on the prime minister’s plane: Police Minister Mark Mitchell, Police Commissioner Richard Chambers and Customs chief executive Christine Stevenson.
“The attractiveness of the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, particularly to the South American cartels, has been quite something,” Luxon told The Post in a pre-trip interview.
“It’s just a level we haven’t seen before; it’s an intensity we haven’t seen before.”
Coordinated efforts to stop drug trafficking through the Pacific have ramped up recently; French authorities – with assistance from New Zealand and U.S agencies – intercepted more than four tonnes of cocaine in French Polynesia in early February.
Collaborating with others was key to curbing the flow of illegal drugs, Luxon said.
“All of that’s just stepped up a gear and obviously we work very, very closely with their counterparts.”
With the spotlight on transnational crime, one notable omission from the prime minister’s programme is a visit to the Manawanui wreck.
It’s been more than a year since the Royal New Zealand Navy ship sank off the south coast of Upolu in Samoa after hitting a reef, spilling hundreds of thousands of litres of diesel and oil into the ocean.
The Government has paid $6 million (US$3.47 million) in compensation, and three naval officers are now facing a court martial, but the effects of the disaster are far from over in Samoa.
Its government has been forced to increase surveillance of the wreck following reports of illegal diving and it’s also considering how to stabilise the wreck to mitigate pollution risks.
As the ongoing impacts of the Manawanui will likely be discussed in closed-door meetings between leaders, The Post asked Luxon if New Zealand would offer more support to Samoa if it was requested.
“The $6 million (US$3.47 million) that we paid last year, we did that in good faith, and obviously it was full and final payment and settlement between the two governments,” he said.
New Zealand enjoys close, familial relationships with Samoa and Tonga by virtue of the Pacific diaspora living onshore and mutual memberships in the key regional group, the Pacific Islands Forum.
Luxon made a point of emphasising the special relationship between New Zealand and Samoa, and New Zealand and Tonga, ahead of his trip.
“We have a very unique relationship. It is one genuinely of family.”
Though it’s unlikely this intimacy will extend to further changes to New Zealand’s visa system right now.
Last month, New Zealand First leader Winston Peters accepted a petition from Arthur Anae, elected as National’s first Pasifika MP in 1996, calling for visitors from six Pacific nations (Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu) to be treated the same as travellers from 60 other countries.
At the moment they have to apply for a visitor visa as opposed to being eligible for the cheaper, more straightforward electronic authority to enter the country.
Asked how receptive National was to this idea, Luxon pointed out the coalition recently set up a year-long trial of lower visa fees for Pasifika people.
“We keep moving in that space. I think we’re done more in that space in the two years of our government and been open to making those concessions.
“The other thing that we have to deal with though on our side is that Samoa and Tonga have the highest overstayer rates in any of the countries that we deal with.
“So, there’s high risk there and if we don’t screen through some form of visas that problem would be much bigger.
“Like all of our immigration settings, they’re risk based. It’s where we see risk and applications and visas need to be considered very much in that regard.”
Luxon’s trip comes as the coalition considers what fuel rationing may look like as the Iran war drags on, and it becomes harder to get fuel into the country.
Pacific nations were exposed to oil shocks, but they were also no stranger to dealing with them, he said.
“I know they’re taking those risks very seriously, as we are, and it’ll be very good to get a sense of how they are [and] what actions they’ve taken to secure supply.”
The prime minister laughed off a question about any potential concerns his leadership might be challenged while he was abroad, off the back of a dire poll last week.
Luxon in in Samoa today, heading on to Tonga on Tuesday afternoon and returning to Auckland late Wednesday evening…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: PIFS PACNEWS 1: Mon 16 Mar 2026
CROP Heads meet amidst evolving Regional and Global Environment
NADI, 16 MARCH 2026 (PIFS) — Heads of Agencies of the Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific (CROP) met in Nadi, Fiji last week to consider the ongoing evolutions to the regional and global environment and its impact on the regional architecture and how it responds to Members’ needs and priorities.
Reflecting on the 2050 Strategy, its implementation and the ongoing work of the Review of Regional Architecture, the meeting provided an opportune moment to consider, consolidate and agree on how best to position the CROP to address the Leaders views that had emerged from the 54th Pacific Islands Forum in Honiara in Solomon Islands.
“This was the first gathering of CROP Heads in Retreat format. It was a constructive opportunity for open and frank discussions on a range of systems proposals including, coordination, harmonisation and resource mobilisation. I am encouraged by the discussions had today and look forward to working together with my CROP colleagues to deliver for our region and our Pacific people,” said Secretary General Baron Waqa, the Chair of the CROP.
CROP Heads also had the opportunity to discuss the recent escalation in the Middle East and its potential implications for the Pacific region, particularly in relation to fuel prices, supply chains, and economic pressures facing Members.
CROP Heads reaffirmed the importance of stronger coordination across regional agencies, including ongoing efforts to advance CROP harmonisation and a more integrated “One-CROP” approach to supporting Members at national and regional levels.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to ensure that the regional system remains responsive, coordinated, and fit-for-purpose to support Members in implementing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent in an increasingly complex global environment…. PACNEWS
PAC – OBITUARY: PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Former Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General Sir Noel Levi dies
SUVA, 16 FEBRUARY 2026 (PACNEWS) — Former Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Sir Noel Levi, has died at the age of 84.
A family notice confirmed the passing of the former regional leader and senior Papua New Guinea statesman.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sir Noel W. Levi, who was called to be with the Lord on 11th March 2026, in Kavieng, New Ireland Province.”
Sir Noel served as the sixth Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum from February 1998 to May 2004, leading the region’s premier political organisation during a period of major regional cooperation and reform.
Born on 06 February 1942, Sir Noel had a long career in public service in Papua New Guinea. He served as Member of Parliament for New Ireland Province from 1977 to 1987 and later held key national and diplomatic positions.
His roles included Minister for Foreign Affairs, Secretary of Defence, and Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and National Executive Council.
Sir Noel also represented Papua New Guinea overseas as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, South Africa and Zimbabwe, and Ambassador to Israel, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the People’s Republic of China.
After his regional and national leadership roles, he continued public service in New Ireland Province, serving as Advisor to Governor Julius Chan, Executive Head of the New Ireland Autonomy Authority, and a Board Member of Air Niugini.
He also served as Chairman of the Council of Elders (Chiefs) in his home province.
A tribute message described his lasting impact on family and community.
“Life may have taken you from our sight, but it will never erase you from our hearts. Thank you for the love, the laughter, and the precious memories you gave. You will be remembered always, with love and honour.”
Sir Noel spent his later years in his village in New Ireland Province, where he remained a respected elder and leader.
He is remembered for his decades of service to Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region…. PACNEWS
FIJI – CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 1: Mon 16 Mar 2026
$1m set aside for Fiji constitutional review commission to carry out its work
SUVA, 16 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN) — Seven members appointed to Fiji’s Constitutional Review Commission were sworn in last Friday as Government confirmed $1 million (US$500,000) has been allocated to support the body’s work.
President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu commissioned the members during a ceremony at State House, marking the start of a constitutional review process expected to run through to 31 August 2026.
The commission will be chaired by senior lawyer Sevuloni Valenitabua. Other members are Labasa lawyer Ami Kohli, Fiji National University Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, University of the South Pacific economist Dr Neelesh Gounder, public policy specialist Merewalesi Nailatikau, medical practitioner Dr John Fatiaki and architect Conway Beg.
The commission has been tasked with reviewing Fiji’s Constitution and making recommendations to strengthen the country’s democracy and governance.
It will consult the public, receive submissions and analyse concerns before presenting its findings and recommendations.
Cabinet has allocated $1 million to support the commission’s work, including the establishment of a secretariat and engagement of constitutional law experts.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko, Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Cabinet ministers and family members of the commissioners attended the ceremony.
Valenitabua is a senior barrister and solicitor admitted to practise in Fiji, Solomon Islands, Nauru and the Australian state of New South Wales, with nearly three decades of experience in criminal and civil litigation.
Kohli is principal of Kohli & Singh in Labasa and has more than 40 years’ experience in legal practice and governance. He previously served on Fiji’s Electoral Commission.
Professor Nabobo-Baba is an education and development specialist with more than 35 years’ academic experience and currently serves as Vice-Chancellor of Fiji National University.
Dr Gounder is a senior lecturer in economics at the University of the South Pacific and previously served as Chief Policy Adviser to the Fiji Government.
Nailatikau has more than 15 years’ experience in public policy, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications across the Pacific.
Dr Fatiaki is a Suva-based medical practitioner and Managing Director of Epworth Clinic. He has also served as a senator and as Special Adviser for Rotuman Affairs.
Beg is principal of Conway Architects and a former chairman of the Fiji Rugby Union.
The commission’s final report will be submitted to the President before it is presented to Cabinet and later tabled in Parliament…. PACNEWS
PNG – LAW ENFORCEMENT: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 1: Mon 16 Mar 2026
International pressure must not dictate law enforcement: PNG Police Minister
PORT MORESBY, 16 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — Papua New Guinea Police Minister Sir John Pundari says international pressure should not determine how the country detects, investigates and prosecutes crimes in PNG.
He said the country should follow the normal practice of law enforcement in PNG, rather than complying with a list sent from abroad.
“While the Financial Action Task Force evaluation process is a journey to ensure our systems meet contemporary standards, our actions should not be solely in response to an international list,” Sir John said.
“We must act for the good of our country.
“To address the years of inaction, the government has taken decisive steps to bolster our investigative capacity.
“As a result, two Commonwealth officers are now embedded within the National Fraud and Anti-Corruption Directorate to provide elite-level support and mentorship.
“The Government has also ordered the establishment of the Unexplained Wealth Investigation Unit under the Proceeds of Crimes Act. That means if someone has riches they cannot explain, then this unit will find out why.
“Let me be clear that no one should stand in the way of these key interventions.
“These are the tools that will not only assist in removing PNG from the grey-list but are necessary intervention not only to restore the integrity of our financial system but to save our country from corrupt and ill gains, money laundering, corrupt money and commission payments changing hands in places like Australia, Singapore, the Philippines and within our country,” he said.
Sir John was responding to a comment by Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jr that Papua New Guineans were falling victims to corruption and fraud involving public servants.
The matter raised was on public facilities and land that were illegally transferred or stolen from the public.
The specific matter referenced is currently before the courts.
It relates to the land and assets of the Highlands Farmers and Settlers Association in Banz, Goroka and Dumpu.
Basil asked the Police and Lands departments what action was being taken to address such issues given that the country was greylisted.
Basil said: “The Public Accounts Committee during Sir John Hickey’s days branded that the most corrupt departments were the Lands and the National Housing Corporation.
“The inaction by police over fraud and corruption is getting PNG on the grey-list and the corruption related to land and assets will not attract investment.
“Is the Government giving attention to the National Fraud Squad and giving them resources as this 10-year complaint and court decision is taking too long?” he said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – DIPLOMACY: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 1: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Fiji files intervention in Gaza genocide case at ICJ
THE HAGE, 16 MARCH 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — Fiji has formally intervened in the high-profile genocide case before the International Court of Justice involving South Africa’s application against Israel over the war in Gaza.
The 34-page declaration was filed on 12 March and is signed by Ambassador Ilaitia Tamata, Fiji’s Permanent Representative of Fiji to the United Nations and other international organisations in Geneva.
In the declaration, Fiji said it was exercising its right under Article 63(2) of the ICJ Statute to intervene as a party to the 1948 Genocide Convention, arguing that the case raises important questions about how the convention should be interpreted.
The filing confirms that Fiji has appointed its Permanent Representative, Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini, as agent for the proceedings.
South Africa lodged the case against Israel on December 29, 2023, alleging violations of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip. The ICJ later issued provisional measures in January 2024, ordering steps to prevent acts prohibited under the convention.
In its intervention, Fiji makes clear it is not entering the case to argue specific facts of the conflict, but to address legal questions surrounding the interpretation of the Genocide Convention.
Fiji argues that the court’s eventual ruling will have implications far beyond Gaza, especially for states involved in peacekeeping missions and military operations in urban warfare.
The declaration states that Fiji is concerned an “expansive interpretation” of the convention could affect future peacekeeping operations and discourage countries from contributing troops to international missions for fear of later facing genocide allegations.
It also points to Fiji’s long history of participation in United Nations peacekeeping and says its military experience gives it a useful perspective on issues such as after-action reports, rules of engagement and compliance with international humanitarian law.
A central plank of Fiji’s submission is that genocide, as defined under the convention, requires a very high evidentiary threshold, including proof of specific intent. It argues that findings of genocide should not rest on vague or broad interpretations, or on what it describes as unreliable or politicised reports from some United Nations bodies and non-government organisations.
Fiji also urges the court to treat military reports and national investigations seriously when weighing evidence and warns against automatically favouring UN or NGO material over state-produced records.
The declaration further argues that combatants and armed groups should not be treated as protected groups under the Genocide Convention, and says civilian harm in war, while grave, should not automatically be equated with genocide.
Fiji said the court’s interpretation in the Gaza case could shape the future application of the Genocide Convention in conflicts around the world……PACNEWS
PAC – PACIFIC BROADCASTERS: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS 1: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Pacific broadcasters rethink news delivery in digital age
AUCKLAND, 16 MARCH 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Pacific broadcasters say the future of storytelling will depend on how well traditional media adapts to the fast-moving world of social media.
This topic is front, and centre of a conference organised by PCBL/Pasifika TV, which brought together broadcasters, producers and media leaders from across the region to share ideas and strategies.
Held last week in Auckland, the conference explores how to “navigate the digital landscape” while maintaining cultural authenticity.
With audiences increasing their consumption of online content, many broadcasters say they need to rethink how they deliver news programmes.
While the opportunities are ever increasing, so too are the challenges for Pacific media to balance credibility and cultural sovereignty.
The founder of the Pacific Islands Film Festival in New York City, Stacey Young, says many organisations are still figuring out how to navigate the digital landscape.
Young said the region needs to work together to stay on top of technological advancements.
“So, it is a lot of that education and a bit of a fear of the unknown, like, how much resources do we need in order to diversify and end up in these spaces?
“And the truth of the matter is, it’s not that many, but it does need to be strategic. So, it does need to be a conversation and a coalesce brainstorming amongst all of the islands, because it, it sounds cliche, but we’re stronger together,” Young said.
Young said traditional media needs to ensure their content is also available online.
She said sharing Pacific content on social platforms keeps those stories circulating and reaches beyond the region.
“It’s very, very important. Like, we all do it, first thing in the morning, last thing at night, you’re scrolling and love it or hate it, that’s how people consume information… And the thirst for Pacific Island stories and Pacific Island creators is a huge demand right now,” she said.
For broadcasters on the ground in the Pacific, the challenge is making sure they reach their audiences on multiple platforms.
The director of Fiji’s Mai TV, Stanley Simpson, said traditional media companies cannot ignore the platforms people are using.
“I think we’ve got to be (on) every space or platform where our audience is, you know, we can’t be just in the waves or the platforms that we’ve been in traditionally in the past. Where our people are going, we need to go there too,” Stanley Simpson said.
But not all broadcasters are having positive experiences posting online.
The managing director of Samoa Broadcasting Corporation, Faiesea Lei Sam Matafeo, said their comment sections can be a battlefield of negative debate.
Faiesea said Samoa is still adjusting to social media etiquette.
“You know, social media is it’s relatively new when compared to the rest of the world in Samoa, but sadly, I think it’s doing more harm than good right now. You know, our people are still trying to adjust to this freedom to express themselves, and sadly, it’s doing more harm than good,” Faiesea said.
Despite these challenges, she said traditional media organisations continue to adapt.
“We’ve come to realise that this is something you can’t fight. You know, social media is going to be there forever. So, we’re learning to adjust and to accept that it’s going to be part of life, so we have to shift all the contents that we have and so that it’s also available on social media,” Faiesea Lei Sam Matafeo said.
She said social media does not rule out the role of traditional media, but it is a way for Pacific broadcasters to connect with audiences.
Navigating the digital landscape continues to be the main topic of discussion for the region’s media bosses meeting in Auckland until the end of last week…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PNG – IRAN CRISIS: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 16 Mar 2026
PNG Govt ‘prepared’ for potential fuel price hike
PORT MORESBY, 16 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, says the Government is prepared for a potential fuel price hike created by the ongoing Middle East conflicts.
“State revenue is expected to rise from gas production, and the Government is mindful of the impact on citizens and is exploring ways to mitigate the effect,” he stated.
Marape has tasked the National Security Advisory Council to look into the country’s fuel supply.
“I’ve asked the National Security Advisory Council to talk about fuel supply and be prepared in case the global fuel supply is constricted,” he said.
“We want to make sure we are fuel secure.”
The Government has removed Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 13 household items and is prepared to offer further relief if fuel prices surge and inflation rises.
“The government is ready to match inflation with relief on fuel,” he said.
Fuel prices in the country have been fluctuating as of March 8, following a rise in global oil prices due to supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
Marape revealed the Government’s plan following an anticipation of an increase in fuel prices because of the Iran war.
The increase in fuel prices will likely affect the cost of living, impact businesses and low-income earners.
The conflict will affect the distribution of oil supply because of the restriction to the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz…. PACNEWS
MARSH – CRYPTO: MARSHALL ISLANDS JOURNAL/RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Marshall Islands digital currency debuts this month in limited form
MAJURO, 16 MARCH 2026 (MARSHALL ISLANDS JOURNAL/RNZ PACIFIC) — The new digital currency established with the backing of the Marshall Islands government will debut later this month to assist distribution of the country’s quarterly universal basic income (UBI) programme.
But due to restrictions placed on the United States funding underwriting this year’s US$26 million payment to all citizens of the Marshall Islands, it will not be a one-step distribution to the digital currency, a “stablecoin” known as USDM1.
The Marshall Islands government and advocates have touted the new digital currency USDM1, and its associated Lomalo digital wallet, as a vehicle for distribution of the UBI payments, particularly to isolated islanders. However, it is not a seamless process at this time.
This is because the Compact of Free Association (COFA) trust fund – which is funding the UBI or, as they are known locally, “Enra” payments – allows only direct deposits to bank accounts or issuance of paper checks to eligible recipients of the Enra/UBI quarterly payments.
Moreover, the USD$1M is still working through establishing relationships with domestic vendors so the digital currency can be used by recipients.
USD$1m is the world’s first sovereign, U.S dollar-denominated digital bond issued on the Stellar blockchain by the Marshall Islands.
It was launched in late 2025 and is a “one-to-one” U.S Treasury-collateralised stablecoin-like digital bond. Promoters of the new digital currency option say it is a vehicle for delivering quarterly Enra payments to the country’s citizens, who are spread out across hundreds of thousands of square kilometers of ocean area on 24 atolls and single islands.
The second quarterly Enra payment is to be issued at the end of March to approximately 37,000 people, up from the 33,000 who received the first payment last November.
All citizens who reside in the Marshall Islands are eligible to receive the payments, which accounts for the global uniqueness of the Marshall Islands UBI system.
The first quarter per capita payment was just over US$200. The upcoming payment is likely to be about US$175 due to increased enrollment for the fixed amount of money for the current fiscal year.
Marshall Islands Social Security Administration (MISSA) administrator Bryan Edejer confirmed that the new digital currency will be used for about 100 of the approximately 37,000 eligible citizens for the March payment.
The Enra funding cannot be paid directly into Enra recipients’ Lomalo digital wallets. Instead, people who want to use the USDM1 stablecoin digital currency for their payments must go through a two-step process of getting a paper check from MISSA and then converting that to U USD$1m.
“We have proposed to the US an amendment to include the USD$1m option,” Finance Minister David Paul, who is a backer of the digital currency programme, said.
“In the meantime, those who wants their Enra in USDM1 should opt in with MISSA by having their (payment) issued out in checks first and then will have their checks converted into USD$1m.”
This process allows the Marshall Islands Social Security Administration to have a paper trail for accountability.
“All of this has to be documented, and the copy of that check will have to be voided and must be kept for auditing purposes,” Paul said.
Edejer explained that “MISSA did not make any payments to the Lomalo wallet on the first ‘Enra’ distribution because an onboarding with the company was a bit late.
“However, for the next one, MISSA will cater for at least 100 eligible recipients who opted for that wallet for collecting their payments.”
“At this stage, Lomalo is primarily being used for Enra-related functionality, including verifying benefit eligibility, distributing Enra payments, and enabling peer-to-peer transfers among approved participants,” Jeremy Coffey, who is one of the principals involved in the USDM1 programme, said.
“Additional USD$1m is not currently available for direct retail purchase within the Lomalo wallet.”
In terms the use of USD$1m in Marshall Islands domestic market, Coffey said, “We are currently running small-scale pilots with a limited number of local businesses.
“Once those pilots conclude successfully, we intend to announce a confirmed list of participating businesses, including via Facebook and other local channels.”
How to exchange USDM1 digital currency for US dollars is of great interest to potential customers, Coffey said.
“Cash-out functionality is one of our most requested features and we understand how important it is to get it right,” he said.
“We are currently testing integrations that will enable direct cash-outs.”
Coffey said the current phase of the Lomalo wallet and USDM1 rollout “is focused on strengthening financial access and the reliability of benefit distribution”.
“We’re sequencing our feature rollout in a way that prioritizes compliance, safety, and real utility for citizens. Overall, we’re running a few months ahead of where we thought we’d be at this point. That’s largely down to enthusiasm for the product,” he said…. PACNEWS
PNG – KAVA INDUSTRY: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Price for Madang kava at almost K50 per kilo
MADANG, 16 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — More farmers in Madang, Papua New Guinea are turning to kava which had its farm-gate price rise from K5 to K49 (US$1.16 to US$11.39) a kilogramme over two decades.
Farmer Wavoi Sindal of Basagolba village in Sumkar said the farm produce remained largely untapped.
Sindal has been growing it since 2004.
“The price has increased to about K49 (US$11.39) per kilo and many farmers are now growing kava,” he said.
Sindal said kava was lucrative for rural communities because of its low cost and minimal labour demand.
“With cocoa, copra and betelnut you have to work very hard and sometimes you even have to pay labour to help carry your bags to the market,” he said.
“But with kava, you can carry 10 bundles by yourself and still make good money.”
Sindal said for subsistence farmers with limited capital and labour, kava the best cash-earning options available.
Farmers from Sumkar, Bogia and Rai Coast were supplying the crop to inland communities, where growing conditions are favourable leading the expansion.
Sindal noted that the geographic spread suggests that kava has the potential to become a province-wide income earner, not just a niche crop for early adopters.
He said farmers faced delayed payments and lack of accommodation for those travelling long distances to the market.
“I encourage Madang people to look into kava as another way of making money, not only depending on cocoa, copra and buai,” he said…. PACNEWS
AUST – AIRLINE: REUTERS PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 16 Mar 2026
‘Dream holidays’ in disarray, trips diverted as travellers count cost of Iran war
SYDNEY/LONDON, 16 MARCH 2026 (REUTERS) — In the remote Western Australian town of Dardanup, accountant Natasha Earle and her family are feeling the financial pain of the U.S-Israeli war with Iran.
Their “once-in-a-lifetime” five-week trip to Europe – booked last May on Emirates and taking them to London, Paris, Berlin, Vienna and Rome – has been upended by the conflict, and is costing roughly AUD$10,000 (US$7,000) more as they reroute to avoid disruptions from drone and missile fire in the Middle East.
“We’ve spent tens of thousands of dollars on this holiday,” said Earle, who is due to fly at the end of this month amid the biggest disruption to global travel since the pandemic. “We should get at least half of that back from Emirates eventually.”
With the Gulf serving as a global crossroads for commercial aviation, the Iran conflict underscores how quickly a problem in a single region can paralyse travel worldwide, driving up prices, squeezing capacity and throwing holiday plans into disarray.
Drone and missile fire have regularly left aircraft circling near Dubai as the war enters its third week, heavily impacting Middle East tourism worth some US$367 billion annually to the region.
Combined, Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways normally fly more than half of all passengers between Europe and Australia, New Zealand and the nearby Pacific Islands, according to Cirium data.
The war has already led to the closure of much of the Middle East’s airspace due to the risk of missiles and drones, leading to tens of thousands of flight cancellations, reroutings and schedule changes worldwide, disrupting the lives of millions of people.
New Zealander Jacob Brown, 34, who lives in the Qatari capital of Doha, drove through the desert of neighbouring Saudi Arabia to Riyadh where he caught a plane to London after his Qatar Airways flight from Doha to New Zealand – where he was due to be best man at a wedding – was cancelled.
A journey that should have taken him less than 24 hours ended up taking several days due to closed airspace, additional flight chaos, delays and lost baggage.
“It was pretty nerve-wracking flying out of Riyadh just considering that that morning, there had been a few missile interceptions south of the capital,” he said.
Aditya Kushwaha, an Australian disability support worker living in Orange near Sydney, has booked a family holiday to London and Paris from April 13 to 29, with Emirates through Dubai. He is unsure if it will go ahead.
“We are very much in a dilemma of what to do,” Kushwaha said, estimating he might lose more than US$10,000 if he cancels the trip and only be able to afford it again in a few years.
For Australian Kellee Smith, her “dream holiday” to Europe at the end of March – planned 12 months ago – with her husband and two children has also turned into a “nightmare” and left her roughly AUD$5,500(US$3,482) out of pocket.
“I’ve had many sleepless nights as I was stressed thinking I’m going to lose my dream holiday … and all the money we paid,” said Smith.
She is waiting for a refund from Emirates of more than AUD$4,000 (US$2,794) after securing back-up flights with Cathay Pacific, and Qantas to fly through Asia rather than the Middle East.
The war has narrowed an already-slim flight corridor for long-haul flights between Europe and Asia, complicating operations for global air carriers and sending ticket prices sky-high.
As the conflict rattles businesses worldwide and drives oil prices higher, concerns over jet fuel costs and supplies are also weighing on airlines, with many raising fuel surcharges and some, such as Air New Zealand, cutting flights.
The International Energy Agency has said the war is creating the biggest oil supply disruption in history, while some analysts have warned it could be only a matter of weeks before airlines run out of jet fuel. Vietnam said this week it could face aviation fuel shortages as soon as April due to the conflict.
In the British city of Bath, John Moore, 81, and his wife Pauline – who describe themselves as “travel virgins” – forked out “a couple of hundred pounds” to switch their flights to the Australian city of Brisbane from Qatar Airways to Qantas.
They will transit through Singapore instead of the Middle East.
“We decided we’d rather pay the extra to book via Singapore, which is no guarantee, but clearly it’s likely to be safer than the current route,” Moore told Reuters.
For others, the prospect of travel disruptions due to the war is not worth the risk.
Sumit Sharma, who lives in Sydney and works at Westpac Banking Corp., had planned to travel on Etihad Airways with his family to Dubai, but changed his plans after Etihad confirmed he was eligible for a refund.
“We changed the plan from the Middle East to Hong Kong,” Sharma said, adding that he was now flying with Cathay Pacific and looking forward to taking his son to Disneyland.
Shobana Gopal, a senior consultant with Alliance Insurance in Sydney, has switched her family’s travel plans to China instead of flying through Dubai to get to Austria.
“We’re going to three cities in China,” Gopal said.
Qantas said more passengers were choosing to travel to Europe via the U.S, other Asian cities and Johannesburg in South Africa, using its partner network.
Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific said the airline was seeing “drastic changes in terms of demand patterns due to the Middle East situation,” while budget carrier Ryanair highlighted a surge in bookings to European destinations as travellers avoided the Middle East.
Lufthansa said demand for routes through Europe had surged, with the German carrier flagging that 12-month forward bookings for direct flights to Asia were up 75 percent year-on-year.
“The large Middle Eastern airlines like Emirates and Etihad can’t fly the routes they should, and therefore the European and Asian airlines have to pick up that traffic,” aviation specialist Hans Joergen Elnaes said…. PACNEWS
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Kiribati and Samoa to receive new ocean monitoring buoys under EU funded ClimSA Pacific
APIA, 16 MARCH 2026 (SPREP) — Kiribati and Samoa are set to receive 20 new SOFAR Smart Mooring buoys, with 10 destined for Kiribati and 10 for Samoa, to strengthen real time ocean and climate information for communities and decision makers across both countries.
The deployment is funded through the European Union funded Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA Pacific) programme, implemented by SPREP in partnership with Kiribati Meteorological Services and Samoa Meteorological Services.
Ueneta Toorua, Director for Kiribati Meteorological Services said, “The deployment will provide a vital new stream of ocean data to help protect our people, livelihoods and infrastructure, an invaluable resource for a low-lying atoll nation like Kiribati.”
“Beyond the physical loss of land, coastal flooding weakens Kiribati’s economy through several interconnected channels that hit incomes, public finances and long-term development. These ocean monitoring buoys will support our national development planning in years to come,” explained Toorua.
Spotter buoys are compact, solar powered platforms that measure waves, sea surface temperature, wind and atmospheric pressure, sending data in near real time via satellite. This information can be used to improve marine forecasts, early warnings of dangerous swell and marine heatwaves, and longer-term climate and ocean research.
For Kiribati and Samoa, which face growing risks from coastal flooding, extreme wave events and changing ocean conditions, the new buoys will help fill critical gaps in ocean observations. Data from the Spotter network will support safer maritime transport, fisheries operations, tourism planning and disaster risk reduction, and will feed into national climate services for communities on the front line of climate change.
An independent third-party pre-shipment inspection has confirmed that twenty SOFAR Smart Mooring systems bound for Samoa and Kiribati are ready for international shipment, marking a major milestone in strengthening ocean and climate services for the two Pacific Island countries. Conducted on 5 March 2026 in San Francisco, California by marine technology specialist Nick Buemond of Buemond Design & Engineering LLC, the inspection verified that all systems conform to their agreed specifications and are fully prepared for deployment.
“Better information on waves and sea temperatures will support more accurate marine forecasts and contribute to the safety of fishers, boat users and coastal communities. Improved and accurate forecasts will enable communities to plan ahead and prepare better,” said Sunny Seuseu, Coordinator for the Pacific Regional Climate Centre Network, who is overseeing the deployment and installation of the buoys.
Kiribati Meteorological Services and Samoa Meteorological Services will work closely with regional partners and local stakeholders to deploy the buoys in strategic locations and to integrate the data into national forecast and early warning systems. Training will accompany the deployment to ensure that technical staff, ocean and climate officers, and relevant agencies can access, interpret and apply the information for day-to-day decision making.
The European Union, through ClimSA Pacific, is supporting Pacific Island countries to strengthen the entire climate services value chain, from observations and data to tailored information and decision support tools. The new Spotter buoys in Kiribati and Samoa will form part of a growing Pacific Ocean observing network that is turning climate science into practical services for Pacific people…. PACNEWS
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Tonga Met raises the bar on Aviation supporting safe skies and stronger tourism
NUKU’ALOFA, 16 MARCH 2026 (SPREP) — When visitors fly into Tonga’s azure waters for whale watching in Vava’u, island-hopping across Ha’apai or diving the reefs of ‘Eua, they rely on aviation systems that depend on accurate, certified weather information.
Now, the Tonga Meteorological Service (TMS) is investing in the people and systems that keep those services and the economy running safely.
In 2024, Tonga welcomed approximately 62,868 international arrivals by air, contributing around USD$105 million to the local economy. Tourism contributes around 11% of Tonga’s GDP and supports approximately 9% of total employment, amounting to around 4,000 jobs across the Kingdom.
With Australia, New Zealand and the United States together accounting for over 83% of total inbound travel, virtually every visitor arrives by air, making aviation safety and the meteorological services underpinning it a direct economic lifeline.
To protect and grow that lifeline, TMS under the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, Communications and CERTs (MEIDECCC), has trained its first cohort of in-house auditors under an Internal Auditor Certification programme delivered in partnership with Tonga-based firm Quality Solutions. Two training sessions were conducted in March 2026, certifying TMS staff in internal auditing aligned with ISO 19011 guidelines.
“Climate services are invisible infrastructure,” said Laitia Fifita, Director for TMS. “But they underpin every flight that brings a visitor to our shores, every charter vessel heading out to whale watching grounds, and every decision a pilot makes before take-off.”
The training is a critical step toward Part 174 certification — the civil aviation compliance standard governing aeronautical meteorological services — and supports TMS’s broader compliance with requirements from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
By building internal auditing skills, TMS staff can now review their own operational processes, identify gaps, and ensure the consistency and reliability that international aviation standards demand. This matters not only for safety compliance, but for Tonga’s reputation as a destination — where the average international visitor spends USD$1,669 per trip over an average nine-night stay.
The programme is part of TMS’s wider Quality Management System (QMS) development, aligned with ISO 9001:2015 and supported through the European Union-funded Intra-ACP ClimSA Programme, implemented in the Pacific by SPREP. The QMS initiative, valued at USD 679,500, was launched in February 2026 and covers eleven national activities aligned with the TMS Strategic Development Framework 2023–2027.
TMS has acknowledged the continued support from SPREP through the ClimSA project and remains committed to delivering services that protect lives, enable safe aviation, and support the communities and industries that drive Tonga’s future…. PACNEWS
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The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Magnifying Pacific Women Voices in Environmental and Social Impact Assessments
FUNAFUTI, 16 MARCH 2026 (SPREP) — Women make up half of the world’s population; their voices must be heard and reflected when it comes to planning infrastructure and development projects.
It just makes sense.
Working in partnership with our Pacific Islands, the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) has been amplifying this message through Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) training across our region.
Known as ESIA, this is a process to identify, forecast and mitigate potential adverse environmental and social impacts of proposed development the projects. It ensures projects are sustainable, socially inclusive and assesses risks to ecosystems, communities and livelihoods.
“ESIA capacity building by SPREP has given me the opportunity to look deeper into areas that we mostly overlook when we plan, implement, monitor and evaluate projects in Tuvalu,” said Ms Lilian Tine the Executive Director for the Tuvalu National Council of Women and also sits on the board of the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation project . She participated in an ESIA training delivered by SPREP in partnership with UNDP and the Pacific Community (SPC) in 2025.
“This is significant from an NGO perspective, to make sure we encompass ESIA to identify and minimise deficiencies in the many projects, large or small, that would have negative impact on the sustainability of Tuvalu’s future.”
“The training has widened my knowledge and skills to use ESIA in ensuring women’s voices are reflected in any development initiatives in Tuvalu.”
TNCW strives to enhance the political, economic and social status of women. It has advocated for women’s voices to be amplified and involved in conservation, agriculture and climate change programmes in Tuvalu.
Tine has led the TNCW since 2023, uplifted by their call for genuine engagement, proper financing for women’s initiatives, and the inclusion of gender in all stages of planning, budgeting, and monitoring.
“It is important that Pacific women’s voices are taken seriously at all levels. The ESIA process is an ideal place in which this can happen,” said Ms Tine.
“In fact, ESIA with its gender inclusive element should always be tied to any development planning, or decision-making process. We can take stock of these processes and their positive and negative impacts on women’s lives, after all women are important development agents, implementers and beneficiaries of our rural and national development initiatives.”
Tuvalu
Despite this, globally, women are still left being left behind.
According to the 2025 UN Gender Snapshot, one in every four women and girls lacked access to safely managed drinking water in 2024. On our current path of progress in the Sustainable Development Goals, by 2030 321 million women could still lack access to electricity. Globally women occupy just 30.0 percent of managerial positions.
One area where impacts for gender inclusivity can be improved at the national level is through the ESIA process for all development projects. And where women’s voices are not being heard, or respected, Tine encourages that people keep pushing until they are.
“You must be prepared to take on risks and to be strong to raise your voice constructively if you know that Pacific women’s voices and gendered impacts are not taken seriously in ESIA processes. Seek support of genuine experienced, like-minded mentors, colleagues and women leaders when you’re faced with uncertainty when pushing for women’s voices to be heard,” advised Ms Tine.
“Be the voice of Pacific women to ensure that they’re reflected and taken seriously during economic development, planning and decision making, be prepared and be brave in that that space.”
Tuvalu undertook ESIA training in 2025, it was the culmination of a partnership between the Government of Tuvalu, SPREP, and the Pacific Community (SPC). The initiative was supported through the Green Climate Fund-financed Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project (TCAP), implemented by the Government of Tuvalu with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)…. PACNEWS
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The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Book shows decades of policy failing Pacific peoples
AUCKLAND, 16 MARCH 2026 (AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY) — A landmark volume, Understanding Pacific Peoples’ Health and Wellbeing Challenges in Aotearoa New Zealand, was launched by Pacific scholars at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland on 06 March.
Bringing together leading Pacific scholars and practitioners, the textbook examines why decades of policy attention have not delivered equitable outcomes and sets out practical directions for change.
Edited by Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga, Li’amanaia Dr Roannie Ng Shiu, and Malaeulu Associate Professor Seuta’afili Patrick Thomsen, the text outlines major Pacific wellbeing priorities, including maternal, child and youth health, mental health, disability, Rainbow+ communities, addiction, men’s health, data sovereignty, Whānau Ora, and long‑term evidence.
Designed for students, clinicians, public servants and community leaders advancing Pacific health, the editors have ensured the book is available online and free to read in e-book form.
University of Auckland Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga (Alofi/Niue), Associate Dean Pacific and Co-Director Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Global and Pacific Health, says the evidence is clear that policy must now translate into measurable gains.
“Pacific peoples are among the most researched communities in Aotearoa, yet too often our health systems fail to convert evidence into outcomes. This book is both a reality check and a roadmap. It calls for services that are accountable to Pacific families, led by Pacific expertise, and resourced to deliver equity.”
Li’amanaia Dr Roannie Ng Shiu (Leone, Savaia, Lefaga/Sāmoa), Senior Research Fellow and Co Director, Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, and Executive Director Pacific Academy of Sciences, say the collection centres Pacific voices and methods.
“Our contributors ground solutions in Pacific knowledge – identity, language, relationships and data sovereignty. When services reflect who we are and how we live, access improves and outcomes follow. This is how we move from reports about Pacific communities to results with Pacific communities.”
Malaeulu Associate Professor Seuta’afili Patrick Thomsen (Vaimoso/Sāmoa), University of Otago Wellington, highlights the book’s attention to groups often overlooked in mainstream models of care.
“Equity means seeing the whole community – women, rangatahi, disabled people and Rainbow+ Pacific. The chapters show what works when lived experience guides design and delivery. This is a practical resource for people building services that are inclusive by default.”
The volume features contributions from many of Aotearoa’s leading Pacific health experts, including Dame Teuila Percival, Dr Karaponi Okesene Gafa, Phylesha Brown Acton, Professor El Shadan Tautolo, Professor Vili Nosa, Dr Corina Grey, Debbie Sorensen, Dr Edmond Fehoko, Dr Siale Foliaki, Dr Sam Manuela, Dr Leon Iusitini, Dr Brittany Stanley Wishart, Asetoa Sam Pilisi, Sione Tu’itahi, Allyssa Verner Pula, Fetaui Iosefo and more.
Addressing equity for Pacific Rainbow+ communities, disability, Whānau Ora and Pacific workforce leadership, the book also draws on evidence from the Pacific Islands Families study, COVID 19 learnings and future focused approaches to health promotion and system reform.
Dedication to the late Tunumafono Fa’amoetauola Avaula Colenso Fa’amoe
The book is dedicated to the late Tunumafono Fa’amoetauola Avaula Colenso Fa’amoe (MNZM) who passed away last November, he authored a chapter on the Pacific disability community. A champion in the world of the disability community, he was also instrumental in lobbying for the lifejacket bylaw, making lifejackets compulsory on small boats across Auckland.
Fa’amoe’s chapter traces the evolution of the Pacific disability community (tagata sa’ilimalo) over the past two decades, highlighting key relationships, major policy shifts and emerging models of support led by Pacific collectives.
Sir Collin says the textbook covers a range of health and well-being issues commonly affecting Pacific communities in Aotearoa, however this is not an exhaustive list.
“A follow-up edition would help booster knowledge and tools around challenges not covered in this edition. This is something we are already discussing and hope to make progress on soon…. PACNEWS