Author: Leslie Omaro

The Wau-Waria District mark a major milestone towards advancing financial inclusion, economic empowerment and community development following the grand launching of the Women’s Micro Bank (Access Point) Kanga Security Force Limited and Cooperative Capacity Building Assets at the Wau Main Sports Oval on Friday, 19 June 2026.

The landmark event, an initiative of Wau-Waria Member of Parliament Hon. Marsh Narewec, also during the event marked the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Wau-Waria District Development Authority (DDA) and the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI). The MoU was signed by Hon. Marsh Narewec and Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea and Chairperson of the CEFI Board, Ms Elizabeth Genia.

The programme brought together leaders from the financial sector, government agencies, cooperative groups, community organisations and local residents to celebrate a shared commitment towards improving access to financial services and economic opportunities in the district.

Delivering her key address, Bank of Papua New Guinea Governor Elizabeth Genia described the occasion as “much more than the launching of banking services”.

“Today is a celebration of opportunity,” Ms Genia said.

“It is about celebrating partnership and determination to build a strong financial future for families and communities in Wau-Waria.”

Ms Genia said the opening of the WMB – Branch marked the return of formal banking services to Wau after many years, providing residents with easier access to savings, credit and other financial services.

She stressed that financial inclusion should not be measured by the number of bank accounts opened, but by the positive impact it creates for families and communities.

The Governor welcomed the signing of the MoU between CEFI and the Wau-Waria DDA, noting that the partnership would support financial literacy training, business skills development, expansion of banking services and greater access to financial products for rural communities.

She also praised Women’s Micro Bank for its commitment to empowering women and underserved communities, noting that financially empowered women contribute to stronger families and more resilient communities.

Ms Genia further commended the launch of Kanga Security Force Limited and the Cooperative Capacity Building Programme, describing both initiatives as practical approaches to creating employment opportunities, improving community safety and strengthening local economic participation.

“The true success of these initiatives will be measured by how businesses grow, families save, cooperatives prosper, jobs are created and young people’s lives are transformed,” she said.

CEFI’s Acting Executive Director Peter Samuel commended Hon. Narewec for his leadership and vision in bringing financial inclusion initiatives to the district.

Mr Samuel said the partnership between CEFI and the Wau-Waria DDA reflected a shared commitment to empowering communities through financial literacy and education on money management.

“Development is not only about roads and buildings; it is also about changing the way people think and helping them improve their lives,” Mr Samuel said.

He explained that CEFI would work closely with the district to deliver financial literacy programmes, strengthen cooperatives and support the development of small and medium enterprises.

“Financial literacy is about more than money. It is about changing lives, helping people make informed decisions and creating opportunities for a better future,” he said.

Mr Samuel added that the arrival of Women’s Micro Bank in Wau would provide local communities with greater access to financial services and opportunities to participate meaningfully in the formal economy.

In his keynote address, Hon. Marsh Narewec welcomed distinguished guests and thanked key partners for supporting the district’s development vision.

He described the establishment of Women’s Micro Bank as a milestone achievement for Wau-Waria, particularly for women, youth and rural communities who previously had limited access to financial services.

“For too long, banking has felt out of reach for our communities. Today, that distance has become shorter,” Mr Narewec said.

The Member also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting programmes that create opportunities for local people and improve livelihoods throughout the district.

As part of the celebrations, the Wau-Waria DDA donated four vehicles, one each to Women’s Micro Bank, Kanga Security Force Limited and two women’s cooperative group. Rice milling machines were also presented to local cooperatives to support local economic activities and income generation.

Women’s Micro Bank Chief Executive Officer Gunanidhi Das described the opening of the WMB Wau Branch as a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s financial inclusion journey.

He thanked Hon. Narewec for recognising that true development involves economic empowerment as well as infrastructure development.

“Financial inclusion is not just about opening bank accounts. It is about creating opportunity, dignity and resilience,” Mr Das said.

Mr Das noted that Wau holds a special place in Papua New Guinea’s microfinance history and said the establishment of a Women’s Micro Bank presence in the district represented a continuation of efforts to bring financial services closer to rural communities.

He revealed that more than 1,100 customer accounts had already been opened in the district, with savings exceeding K500,000. More than 400 people had also received financial literacy training through the bank’s outreach programmes.

Mr Das further highlighted the bank’s partnerships with CEFI, community groups, churches and cooperatives, which continue to promote savings, responsible borrowing and entrepreneurship.

Registrar of Cooperative Societies Wale Budda Molume welcomed the launch of the Cooperative Capacity Building Programme and reaffirmed the important role cooperatives play in community development.

Mr Molume said cooperatives provide a pathway for local people to participate directly in economic activities, manage resources collectively and generate sustainable income.

He commended Hon. Narewec for championing initiatives that promote economic empowerment and pledged continued support for cooperative development throughout the district.

Mr Molume also acknowledged the contribution of Kanga Security Force Limited in supporting community safety and creating opportunities for local youth.

The event concluded with the official signing of the MoU between CEFI and the Wau-Waria DDA, followed by ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the Women’s Micro Bank Wau Branch, Kanga Security Force Limited and the cooperatives established in Wau Waria District.

The partnership is expected to strengthen financial inclusion efforts across Wau-Waria District through financial literacy training, enterprise development, cooperative strengthening and improved access to financial services, supporting the district’s vision of sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

Ends.

Image Captions

Image 1: Ms Elizabeth Genia, Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, is escorted by Wau-Waria Member of Parliament Hon. Marsh Narewec, accompanied by distinguished guests, as they proceed to the official dais for the commencement of the launch programme.

Image 2: Security personnel of the newly launched Kanga Security Force Limited stand in formation during the ceremonial parade.

Image 3: Ms Elizabeth Genia, Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, and Wau-Waria MP Hon. Marsh Narewec prepare to cut the ribbon marking the official opening of the Women’s Micro Bank Access Point.

Image 4: Ms Elizabeth Genia and Hon. Marsh Narewec officially open the Women’s Micro Bank Wau Branch by cutting the ceremonial ribbon in Wau-Waria District, Morobe Province.

Image 5: Ms Elizabeth Genia and Hon. Marsh Narewec proudly display a commemorative plaque marking the official launch of the Women’s Micro Bank Branch, Wau Urban Youth Association, Kanga Security Force Limited, and the Cooperative Capacity Building Programme.

Image 6: Ms Elizabeth Genia and Hon. Marsh Narewec pose for a group photograph with invited guests and staff of the Women’s Micro Bank Wau Branch.

Image 7: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Wau-Waria District Development Authority (DDA) and the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) is formally signed by Hon. Marsh Narewec and Bank of Papua New Guinea Governor and CEFI Board Chairperson, Ms Elizabeth Genia. The signing is witnessed by CEFI Acting Executive Director, Mr Peter Samuel.

Image 8: Hon. Marsh Narewec and Ms Elizabeth Genia exchange a handshake following the signing of the MoU, symbolising the partnership between the Wau-Waria DDA and CEFI. The occasion is witnessed by CEFI Acting Executive Director, Mr Peter Samuel.

Image 9: Ms Elizabeth Genia and Hon. Marsh Narewec officially launch the Women’s Micro Bank vehicle, Kanga Security Force Limited, and Cooperative Capacity Building assets through a ceremonial ribbon-cutting. Also present are CEFI Acting Executive Director Mr Peter Samuel (far left) and Registrar of Cooperative Societies Mr Wale Budda Molume (far right).

Image 10: Ms Elizabeth Genia and Hon. Marsh Narewec perform the ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially launch the Women’s Micro Bank vehicle, Kanga Security Force Limited, and Cooperative Capacity Building assets.

Image 11: Ms Elizabeth Genia, accompanied by her husband Kilroy Genia (left), observes the launch proceedings alongside Women’s Micro Bank Limited Chief Executive Officer Mr Gunanidhi Das, CEFI Acting Executive Director Mr Peter Samuel, Assistant Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea Mrs Sabina Deklin, and Women’s Micro Bank Director Mr Noel Norikul.

Image 12: Hon. Marsh Narewec presents vehicle keys to a representative of Kanga Security Force Limited, while Registrar of Cooperative Societies Mr Wale Budda Molume looks on.

Image 13: Hon. Marsh Narewec hands over vehicle keys to representatives of a women’s cooperative group, witnessed by Registrar of Cooperative Societies Mr Wale Budda Molume.

Image 14: Rice milling machines were presented to local cooperatives as part of the celebrations to strengthen community-based economic activities and income-generating opportunities.

Image 15: As part of the event, the Wau-Waria DDA donated four vehicles—one each to the Women’s Micro Bank and Kanga Security Force Limited, and two to women’s cooperative groups.

Image 16: Ms Elizabeth Genia delivers the keynote address during the grand launch of the Women’s Micro Bank Access Point, Kanga Security Force Limited, and Cooperative Capacity Building Assets at Wau Main Sports Oval on 19 June 2026.

Image 17: Hon. Marsh Narewec addresses attendees during the grand launch of the Women’s Micro Bank Access Point, Kanga Security Force Limited, and Cooperative Capacity Building Assets at Wau Main Sports Oval on 19 June 2026.

Image 18: CEFI Acting Executive Director Mr Peter Samuel delivers his remarks at the official launch ceremony held at Wau Main Sports Oval on 19 June 2026.

Image 19: Women’s Micro Bank Chief Executive Officer Mr Gunanidhi Das speaks during the launch of the Women’s Micro Bank Access Point, Kanga Security Force Limited, and Cooperative Capacity Building Assets.

Image 20: Registrar of Cooperative Societies Mr Wale Budda Molume addresses guests and stakeholders at the launch event held at Wau Main Sports Oval on 19 June 2026.

Image 21: Wau-Waria DDA Chief Executive Officer Mr John Orebut delivers the welcome address at the grand launch ceremony.

Image 22: Women’s Micro Bank Director Mr Noel Norikul shares his remarks during the official launch programme at Wau Main Sports Oval.

Image 23: Wau Urban Women’s Association (Wau-UWA) Chairlady Ms Moika Kelly addresses participants during the launch celebrations.

Image 24: Youth representative Mr Joseph Nimagi delivers his remarks during the official launch of the Women’s Micro Bank Access Point, Kanga Security Force Limited, and Cooperative Capacity Building Assets.

Image 25: Watut tribal leader Mr Joseph Yawing shares his remarks during the grand launch event at Wau Main Sports Oval on 19 June 2026.

About CEFI

CEFI was established under the Association Incorporation Act and officially launched on the 24^th of April 2013. CEFI was endorsed by PNG’s National Executive Council (NEC) as the industry apex organization for coordinating, advocating and monitoring all financial inclusion activities in PNG.

CEFI’s vision, mission and values focus on financial inclusion and literacy, poverty elimination and the promotion of vibrant financial institutional operation in Papua New Guinea.

Visit our website – www.thecefi.org

Media Contact:

Mr. Leslie Omaro

Communication Officer

Phone: 79736883

Email: lomaro@thecefi.org

The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) and The Salvation Army (TSA) have formalized a new partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding financial literacy, financial inclusion and economic empowerment initiatives across Papua New Guinea.

The partnership will leverage The Salvation Army’s extensive network of churches, schools, community programmes and social services to deliver financial literacy training and connect underserved communities with formal financial services.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, CEFI Acting Executive Director Peter Samuel described the agreement as a significant milestone in strengthening financial inclusion through faith-based organizations.

“Seeing the history of how The Salvation Army was established in 1956 and the work that you have done in empowering communities right across the country is beyond measure,” Mr Samuel said.

“For us, this MoU is an opportunity to not only impact lives but to create lasting change through the community programmes that you already deliver.”

Mr Samuel highlighted the strong link between financial wellbeing and social development, noting that many social and family challenges stem from poor financial decision-making.

“We feel that having conversations about social issues and gender issues often leads back to financial issues. Financial literacy is not just about training people how to save money; it is about changing mindsets and helping people build a healthier relationship with money,” he said.

He added that CEFI is working closely with the Department of Education to integrate financial literacy into the national curriculum from Preparatory to Grade 12, ensuring young Papua New Guineans develop lifelong financial management skills.

“We are committed to empowering communities and look forward to working with The Salvation Army. Together, we can equip teachers, church members and community leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to improve financial wellbeing across the country,” Mr Samuel said.

Representing The Salvation Army, Major Michelle Oliver reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to the partnership and outlined preparations already underway to support the programme.

She announced that 30 participants have been identified to attend the upcoming Training of Trainers programme scheduled for the last week of June, with women making up more than half of the participants.

“We’ve got 30 people who will be in attendance, 17 of those are women, so we have certainly exceeded the 50 per cent target,” Major Oliver said.

The participants include representatives from women’s refuges, restorative justice programmes, literacy initiatives, churches and community organizations from across Papua New Guinea, as well as one participant from Solomon Islands.

Major Oliver said trained facilitators would also support financial literacy education in Salvation Army schools and communities throughout the country.

The Salvation Army Territorial Commander, Colonel Chris Goa, welcomed the partnership and thanked CEFI for its confidence in the organization.

“Thank you very much for trusting us and wanting to be partners with us,” Colonel Goa said.

“Our aim is to let our work speak for itself. We want our partners to be happy with what we are planning to do so that this relationship continues to grow.”

Under the MoU, CEFI will provide Training of Trainers programmes, mentoring and technical support, while The Salvation Army will identify and mobilize participants and facilitate community outreach activities. The partnership aims to train 30 financial literacy trainers and reach at least 1,000 beneficiaries through community-based financial literacy programmes.

The collaboration will also promote savings, responsible financial management, access to banking services, digital payments and entrepreneurship, particularly among rural households, farmers, informal sector workers and micro, small and medium enterprises.

The agreement reflects both organizations shared commitment to strengthening financial capability, promoting responsible stewardship and improving the livelihoods of vulnerable and underserved communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

Ends.

Image Captions:

Image 1: Colonel Chris Goa of the Salvation Army (second from left) and CEFI Acting Executive Director Peter Samuel (second from right) display the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) documents following the official signing ceremony. Witnessing the occasion are CEFI Senior Trainer Sebastian Mugup (far right) and Major Michelle Oliver of the Salvation Army.

Image 2: Colonel Chris Goa of the Salvation Army (second from left) and CEFI Acting Executive Director Peter Samuel (second from right) formally sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), witnessed by CEFI Senior Trainer Sebastian Mugup (far right) and Major Michelle Oliver of the Salvation Army.

Image 3: Colonel Chris Goa of the Salvation Army (second from left) and CEFI Acting Executive Director Peter Samuel (second from right) exchange signatures during the MoU signing ceremony, with CEFI Senior Trainer Sebastian Mugup (far right) and Major Michelle Oliver observing proceedings.

Image 4: Prior to the official MoU signing, Colonel Chris Goa of the Salvation Army (far left), CEFI Acting Executive Director Peter Samuel, and Major Michelle Oliver engage in discussions ahead of the formal proceedings.

About CEFI

CEFI was established under the Association Incorporation Act and officially launched on the 24^th of April 2013. CEFI was endorsed by PNG’s National Executive Council (NEC) as the industry apex organization for coordinating, advocating and moniotoring all financial inclusion activities in PNG.

CEFI’s vision, mission and values focus on financial inclusion and literacy, poverty elimination and the promotion of vibrant financial institutional operation in Papua New Guinea.

Visit our website – www.thecefi.org

Media Contact:

Mr. Leslie Omaro

Communication Officer

WhatsApp : 79736883

Email: lomaro@thecefi.org

Twenty-three financial literacy trainers from across Papua New Guinea graduated from the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion’s (CEFI) inaugural Digital Financial Literacy Trainers of Trainers (DFLT TOT) Programme, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen financial inclusion and prepare communities for an increasingly digital economy.

The mini graduation ceremony concluded a week-long training programme that brought together financial literacy trainers from across the country to enhance their digital financial literacy skills, improve financial capability, and expand outreach into communities through a structured training-of-trainers in Digital Financial Literacy Model.

The programme included 23 participants, comprising 12 women and 11 men, representing the National Capital District, Western Highlands, Morobe, Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Jiwaka, Milne Bay, Central, Eastern Highlands, Simbu, East New Britain, New Ireland, East Sepik and Madang provinces.

Speaking at the graduation,  First Assistant Secretary of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring and CEFI Board Member, Mr. Sanja Pepae, emphasized the importance of digital financial literacy in supporting Papua New Guinea’s development aspirations.

He congratulated participants for successfully completing the intensive training and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired knowledge within their communities.

“Digital financial literacy is one of the major contemporary areas as our economy continues to progress. The knowledge, tools and skills you have gained this week will help not only yourselves, but also the people you will train and inspire,” Mr Papea said.

He described the training as a social investment that would create positive change across communities and contribute towards the Government’s broader development agenda and Vision 2050.

“Every small contribution you make can have a significant impact on someone’s life and ultimately contribute to nation-building,” he added.

Bhavan Srivastava, Director of FinValue Advisors, described the training as a major milestone in CEFI’s financial literacy journey and highlighted the collaborative effort behind the development of the digital financial literacy curriculum.

She explained that extensive consultations with stakeholders across Papua New Guinea helped shape a digital financial literacy training module tailored to local needs and realities.

“This is indeed a very big milestone for CEFI. Financial literacy has evolved, and we are now ready to launch digital financial literacy training programmes that will support Papua New Guinea’s journey towards becoming a digital economy,” Mrs Srivastava said.

He praised the participants for their contributions throughout the training and reminded them of their role as ambassadors of financial inclusion.

“You are the people who will bring change. Financial inclusion is not only about access to services; it is about ensuring people can participate safely and confidently in the digital world.”

Delivering the keynote address, George Kulisi, Director of Programme Development at the Department for Community Development and Religion and CEFI Board Member, encouraged graduates to lead by example and begin sharing their knowledge with their families, organizations and communities.

“You are ambassadors. Whatever you have learned this week must start with you first, then your family, your network and your communities,” Mr Kulisi said.

He stressed that participants should not allow the training to become merely another qualification on their curriculum vitae, but instead use it as a practical tool to empower others.

Mr Kulisi also highlighted the importance of digital literacy within the Government’s forthcoming National Informal Economy Policy, noting that digital skills and emerging technologies would play an increasingly important role in Papua New Guinea’s economic development.

Speaking on behalf of the male participants, Jimmy Rick Raphael described the opportunity to attend the training as both an honour and a responsibility.

“It was a privilege for the 23 of us to be selected for this training. Digital financial literacy is the future, and we will become agents of change for the majority of Papua New Guineans,” he said.

Mr Raphael noted that despite previous experience in financial literacy training, the programme provided new insights into digital financial services, online transactions and consumer protection.

Representing the female participants, Freda Korarome said the training introduced participants to a rapidly evolving digital landscape and challenged them to expand their knowledge beyond traditional financial literacy.

“Digital financial literacy was a new space for many of us. We learned there was so much more in that space than we previously understood,” she said.

Ms Korarome encouraged CEFI and its partners to continue supporting trainers through follow-up engagement, capacity-building initiatives and resources. She also called for greater inclusion of persons with disabilities in future training programmes.

Closing the ceremony, CEFI Acting Executive Director Peter Samuel thanked participants, development partners and trainers for their contributions to the successful delivery of the programme.

Mr Samuel highlighted the DFLT programme as a key achievement under Papua New Guinea’s National Financial Inclusion Strategy and outlined several reforms being pursued by the Bank of Papua New Guinea and CEFI to support digital financial services, consumer protection and financial education.

“We have now developed the digital financial literacy programme and are also developing a digital tool to support its rollout. This is a major milestone for CEFI and aligns with the broader reforms taking place within the financial sector,” Mr Samuel said.

He announced plans for CEFI to establish formal partnerships with the newly trained master trainers, enabling them to act as CEFI’s representatives in their respective provinces and communities.

“You will become CEFI agents in empowering communities. Together, we can expand our reach and accelerate financial inclusion throughout Papua New Guinea,” he said.

The graduation marks the beginning of a national rollout of digital financial literacy training, with the newly certified trainers expected to deliver programmes at national, provincial and community levels, helping more Papua New Guineans confidently and safely participate in the digital economy.

Ends.

Image Captions:

Image 1: Training participants and guest speakers gather for a commemorative group photograph following the graduation ceremony.

Image 2: CEFI Acting Executive Director, Peter Samuel (left), presents a certificate to Jacklyn Wilson of Career Link PNG during the graduation ceremony.

Image 3: Director of Programme Development at the Department for Community Development and Religion and CEFI Board Member, George Kulisi (left), awards a certificate to Manasi Badira of Credit and Data Bureau.

Image 4: George Kulisi (left), Director of Programme Development at the Department for Community Development and Religion and CEFI Board Member, presents a certificate to Angela Mong of Cliffy Consultants.

Image 5: CEFI Acting Executive Director, Peter Samuel (left), presents Steven Shon Whallan of Sepik Project Organisation with his certificate.

Image 6: George Kulisi, Director of Programme Development at the Department for Community Development and Religion and CEFI Board Member, congratulates Romano Vendenberg of Build Bougainville Foundation Incorporated while presenting his certificate.

Image 7: Assistant Secretary of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring and CEFI Board Member, Sanja Papea (left), presents Nathan John with his certificate.

Image 8: Freda Korarome of Cottage Livelihood Consultancy delivers an address on behalf of the female participants during the Training of Trainers in Digital Financial Literacy graduation ceremony.

Image 9: Assistant Secretary of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring and CEFI Board Member, Sanja Papea (left), awards a certificate to Harold Wuris.

Image 10: Assistant Secretary of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring and CEFI Board Member, Sanja Papea, delivers the opening remarks at the Training of Trainers in Digital Financial Literacy graduation ceremony.

Image 11: FinValue Advisors Director, Bhavan Srivastava, shares remarks during the Training of Trainers in Digital Financial Literacy graduation ceremony.

Image 12: Director of Programme Development at the Department for Community Development and Religion and CEFI Board Member, George Kulisi, delivers the keynote address at the Training of Trainers in Digital Financial Literacy graduation ceremony.

Image 13: Representing the male participants, Jimmy Rick Raphael delivers a speech during the Training of Trainers in Digital Financial Literacy graduation ceremony.

Image 14: CEFI Acting Executive Director, Peter Samuel, delivers the closing remarks to conclude the Training of Trainers in Digital Financial Literacy graduation ceremony.

About CEFI

CEFI was established under the Association Incorporation Act and officially launched on the 24^th of April 2013. CEFI was endorsed by PNG’s National Executive Council (NEC) as the industry apex organization for coordinating, advocating and monitoring all financial inclusion activities in PNG.

CEFI’s vision, mission and values focus on financial inclusion and literacy, poverty elimination and the promotion of vibrant financial institutional operation in Papua New Guinea.

Visit our website – www.thecefi.org

Media Contact:

Mr. Leslie Omaro

Communication Officer

Phone: 7464 5678

Email: lomaro@thecefi.org

Bank of Papua New Guinea

Media Release

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, 27 May 2026

The 2026 Green Finance Summit opened today, Wednesday 27 May 2026 at the Hilton Hotel, hosted by the Bank of Papua New Guinea and the Green Finance Centre.

Governor Elizabeth Genia opened the summit calling for collaboration to drive investment to build a resilient and sustainable Papua New Guinea under the theme of ‘Greening PNG’s Financial System’. The summit creates a platform for workable, practical solutions to move capital and challenge conventional assumptions to create a tangible green financial system in Papua New Guinea.

The two-day summit features a strong line up of keynote presentations, panels discussions and interactive workshops that will provide a high-level platform to unlock green finance opportunities, accelerate climate-resilient investment, and advance practical action on green growth in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

The summit convened approximately 250 participants from across government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, private sector organisations, investors, and regional central banks. Senior representatives from national agencies, commercial banks, multilateral institutions and development organisations will join leaders from PNG and the wider Pacific to exchange practical insights, showcase progress, and explore innovative green finance instruments that can accelerate climate-resilient and sustainable finance in PNG.

Aligned with Papua New Guinea’s Inclusive Green Finance Policy and its implementation roadmap, the 2026 summit builds on the momentum of the inaugural 2025 Green Finance Summit and reflects the country’s growing commitment to strengthening its green finance architecture. As PNG prepares for higher standards of sustainability reporting and seeks to mobilise greater private capital for climate-resilient development, the summit will serve as a timely platform for policy dialogue, technical exchange and partnership-building that supports practical market implementation.

This year, we move the conversation forward – 2026 is not about introducing ideas; it is about implementation said Bank of Papua New Guinea Governor Elizabeth Genia,

“Papua New Guinea remains committed to building strong policy frameworks that encourage green investment, strengthen financial sector resilience, and create pathways for sustainable growth.” “The Green Finance Summit 2026 is an opportunity to bring together partners, financial institutions and policymakers to move from ambition to implementation and ensure that green finance delivers practical outcomes for our people, our economy and our climate future.”

Key highlights of the summit will include the launch of PNG’s Inclusive Green Finance Taxonomy Version 2, Standards for Green Loan Classification and Reporting, the Environmental Risk Policy Guidelines for

Head Office: ToRobert Haus, Douglas Street, Port Moresby NCD | PO Box 121 Port Moresby NCD Tel: +675 322 7200 | Email: info@bankpng.gov.pg | www.bankpng.gov.pg

Financial Institutions and the Green Finance Academy. This will be alongside discussions on green lending, impact investment, digital finance and financial inclusion.

Papua New Guinea has been commended for the progress it has made in establishing its green finance policy framework by the Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI).

Dr Ma Jun, Keynote speaker at the Green Finance Summit 2026, and Chairman of CASI said: “I am deeply impressed by the remarkable progress Papua New Guinea has achieved in establishing its green finance policy framework.”

“I believe PNG can serve as an excellent role model for island nations across the Asia-Pacific. As a global platform for capacity building and knowledge sharing, CASI stands ready to partner with the Bank of Papua New Guinea and the Green Finance Centre to strengthen sustainable finance and investment capacity in PNG and other economies throughout the region”.

Chief Secretary to the Government of Papua New Guinea, Ivan Pomaleu, OBE, on behalf of the Prime Minister Hon James Marape commended the Bank of Papua New Guinea and Green Finance Centre for bringing together such an important platform for strengthening sustainable development agenda,

“These reforms are critical because sustainable finance is not simply about climate discussions. It is about jobs. It is about agriculture. It is about energy access. It is about infrastructure. It is about financial inclusion. And most importantly, it is about improving lives of Papua New Guineans.”

The summit is coordinated by the Green Finance Centre in collaboration with Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI). Through these partnerships, the summit is expected to strengthen market confidence, reduce greenwashing risks, and support the growth of credible green finance solutions that contribute to a more resilient and sustainable financial system in PNG.

Ends/ Background

About Green Finance Centre

The Green Finance Centre (GFC) is a department under the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG). Its primary role is to transform Papua New Guinea’s financial sector into one that is inclusive, climate resilient and promotes green economic growth. It serves as the entity responsible for implementing the Inclusive and Green Finance Policy (IGFP) and all future initiatives related to green finance in Papua New Guinea.

The Green Finance Centre was officially launched on 25th March 2024 by Chief Secretary to the Government of Papua New Guinea Mr. Ivan Pomaleu OBE, Conservation Environment & Climate Change Minister Hon Simo Kilepa MP, and the Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea Mrs. Elizabeth Genia.

Currently, the Green Finance Centre is the secretariat to the Inclusive Green Finance Project steering committee, that is chaired by BPNG. Other members of the steering committee include the Centre of Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI), the Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA), the Department of Treasury, the Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI), the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI)(Observer), New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT)(observer) and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD)(observer).

More than 1,000 students in Madang Province have gained valuable financial literacy knowledge through the successful completion of the Young Mind Savings Campaign (YMSC), a three-day awareness programme aimed at promoting savings habits and responsible money management among school-aged children.

The campaign, held from 20–22 May 2026, brought together schools, financial institutions, government agencies and community stakeholders to encourage students to understand the importance of saving money and opening bank accounts from an early age.

The programme was conducted at Sagalau Demonstration Primary School, Holy Spirit Primary School and Kusbau Primary School. Students from Good Shepherd Secondary School also attended the afternoon session at Sagalau Primary School. Granget Primary School and Tusbab Secondary School were unable to participate due to ongoing school assessments.

The Young Mind Savings Campaign, launched in 2024, began with successful pilot programmes in Milne Bay and West New Britain provinces, resulting in more than 300 student bank accounts being opened. In August 2025, CEFI partnered with the East New Britain Provincial Government to reach 3,000 students across six schools, resulting in 500 new accounts being opened with support from financial institutions and government agencies.

The campaign continued to expand in October 2025 to Kerema District, where 3,800 students across six schools participated and 430 accounts were opened. In March 2026, a total of 2,073 bank accounts were opened during the campaign in Western Highlands Province.

The Madang programme was delivered through a partnership between the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) and the Madang Provincial Government, with support from the Bank of Papua New Guinea, the Securities Commission of Papua New Guinea and participating financial institutions including Bank South Pacific, TISA Bank, Kina Bank, Women’s Micro Bank, MiBank, NASFUND, NCSL, Nambawan Super, Nambawan Savings and Loan Society, and National Development Bank.

CEFI Executive Director Peter Samuel thanked stakeholders and participating institutions for their continued support in educating school-aged children about savings and financial responsibility.

“The purpose of the Young Mind Savings Campaign is to raise awareness and educate school students about the importance of opening and owning a bank account, as well as building a culture of saving for their future,” Mr Samuel said.

He said the continued collaboration between CEFI, financial institutions and stakeholders was helping empower students with financial knowledge while encouraging a stronger savings culture for a more secure future.

Madang Provincial Government Executive Director for Commerce, Imason Bekue, said the provincial government was proud to partner with CEFI in delivering an important educational programme aimed at preparing young people for the future.

He said the Young Mind Savings Campaign was part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed between CEFI and the Madang Provincial Government in 2024, making Madang the sixth province in Papua New Guinea to implement the initiative.

Mr Bekue said the programme aligned with the Government’s Medium Term Development Plan IV and the Madang Provincial Integrated Development Plan.

“The theme of this programme reflects the importance of preparing the future generation to participate in the country’s development agenda and make informed decisions for a better future,” he said.

Speaking during the closing programme at Kusbau Primary School, Director of Economic Services Peter Sagerom acknowledged the commitment shown by teachers, students and stakeholders throughout the campaign.

“We are still learning, but we must learn how to save money. It will take time, but surely we will get there for the good of our future generations,” Mr Sagerom said.

He noted that financial education was becoming increasingly important as Papua New Guinea’s education system gradually integrates financial literacy into schools. He also highlighted ongoing challenges, including teacher training, infrastructure limitations in rural schools and the need to adapt lessons to Papua New Guinea’s diverse cultural and economic environment.

Provincial Education Director Alphonse Igag described financial literacy as an essential life skill that had been missing from the education system for many years. He said the campaign would help students develop responsible money management habits from an early age while also benefiting teachers and parents.

“We are working towards establishing financial literacy, which has been missing for the last fifty years. No wonder very few people are able to manage money properly,” Mr Igag said.

Mr Igag thanked CEFI and its partners for bringing the programme to Madang and expressed confidence that the initiative would help build a financially informed generation in the years ahead.

Kusbau Primary School Headmistress Mrs ToWillie welcomed the initiative and commended financial institutions for delivering financial education directly to schools and communities.

“Your presence shows your commitment to educating our young people about financial literacy, savings and responsibility in money management,” she said.

Sagalau Demonstration Primary School Head Teacher Francis Piska described the campaign as an important opportunity for students to learn the value of saving money and develop responsible financial habits from an early age.

“It is a privilege and blessing to have you all here at Sagalau Demonstration Primary School,” Mr Piska said.

The Young Mind Savings Campaign continues to strengthen financial education efforts across Papua New Guinea by encouraging children and young people to develop positive saving habits and financial responsibility for the future.

Ends.

Image Captions:

Image 1: Sagalau Demonstration Primary School Students, CEFI Staff and Stakeholders pose for a group photo.

Image 2: Sagalau Demonstration Primary  School Students assisted by TISA Bank Officers to open bank accounts.

Image 3: NCSL Staff doing awareness to Sagalau Demonstration Primary School Students on NCSL Products and Servcies.

Image 4: Holy Spirit Primary School Students, CEFI Staff and Stakeholders pose for a group photo.

Image 5: Bank of Papua New Guinea Currency Staff interacting with Holy Spirit Primary School Students.

Image 6: Holy Spirit Primary School Students opening bank accounts at the BSP Booth.

Image 7: Kusbau Primary School Students, CEFI Staff and Stakeholders pose for a group photo.

Image 8: Nambawan Savings and Loans Society Officer Goodness Geyame doing awareness to Kusbau Primary School Students about Nambawan Savings and Loans Society products and services.

Image 9:  Sylvia Lunga from Kina Bank doing awareness to Kusbau Primary School Students about Kina Banks products and services.

About CEFI

CEFI was established under the Association Incorporation Act and officially launched on the 24^th of April 2013. CEFI was endorsed by PNG’s National Executive Council (NEC) as the industry apex organization for coordinating, advocating and moniotoring all financial inclusion activities in PNG.

CEFI’s vision, mission and values focus on financial inclusion and literacy, poverty elimination and the promotion of vibrant financial institutional operation in Papua New Guinea.

Visit our website – www.thecefi.org

Media Contact:

Mr. Leslie Omaro

Communication Officer

Phone: 7464 5678

Email: lomaro@thecefi.org

The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) has announced significant achievements in its 2024 Annual Report, themed “A Year of Progress, A Future of Promise,” highlighting a year of growth, strengthened partnerships, and expanded impact across Papua New Guinea.

Acting Executive Director, Mr. Peter Samuel, described 2024 as a transformative year driven by collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to advancing financial inclusion.

“The year 2024 has been one of remarkable growth, renewed partnerships, and tangible impact across Papua New Guinea’s financial inclusion landscape,” Mr. Samuel said.

A key milestone was the successful hosting of the inaugural Financial Inclusion Policy Forum and Excellence Awards in November, which brought together leaders from government, private sector, and development partners including abroad. The event recognised excellence across seven categories and reinforced CEFI’s role as a catalyst for inclusive financial growth in the country.

Partnerships remained central to progress, with nine Memoranda of Understanding signed in 2024. Notable collaborations included engagements with key foundations and provincial governments, enhancing outreach and tailoring financial inclusion initiatives to local communities.

CEFI also reached a historic milestone in education, developing a nationwide Financial Education Curriculum for schools from Preparatory to Grade 12 in partnership with the Department of Education. This initiative produced 53 curriculum resources, strengthening long-term financial literacy.

Another major highlight was the launch of the PNG Green Finance Centre in March, marking a strategic shift towards integrating financial inclusion with environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

“Through inclusive green finance, Papua New Guinea is charting a path where economic empowerment and environmental responsibility go hand in hand,” Mr. Samuel stated.

Financial literacy efforts continued to expand, with 959 individuals who were certified as CEFI trainers in 2024, including most women. Nationally, bank account ownership rose to over 4.3 million, with more than 1.5 million accounts held by women, this demonstrates the demand for financial services and also indicates the tremendous job CEFI is doing with all the licenced commercial banks in its various outreach programs.

Programmes such as the Young Minds Savings Campaign and the Market for Village Farmers Project further extended impact, supporting students, farmers, and rural communities through financial education, improved access to services, and increased participation in agribusiness.

“The progress achieved in 2024 is a testament to what can be accomplished through vision, collaboration, and perseverance,” Mr. Samuel added.

CEFI reaffirmed its commitment to building a financially inclusive, sustainable, and resilient Papua New Guinea, ensuring all citizens have the opportunity to participate in economic growth.

Ends.

Visit the CEFI website to download the E- Copy – https://www.thecefi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/FINAL-WEBSITE-APPROVED-CEFI-Annual-Report.21.04.26.pdf

Image Captions:

Image 1: A key milestone was the successful hosting of the inaugural Financial Inclusion Policy Forum and Excellence Awards in November, uniting leaders from government, private sector, and development partners.

Image 2: Partnerships remained central, with nine Memoranda of Understanding signed in 2024, strengthening collaboration with foundations and provincial governments to expand outreach and tailor financial inclusion initiatives locally.

Image 3: CEFI achieved a historic milestone by developing a nationwide Financial Education Curriculum for Preparatory to Grade 12, producing 53 resources to strengthen long-term financial literacy.

Image 4: Another highlight was the March launch of the PNG Green Finance Centre, signalling a strategic shift towards integrating financial inclusion with environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

Image 5: Programmes such as the Young Minds Savings Campaign and Market for Village Farmers Project expanded impact, supporting students, farmers, and rural communities through financial education and improved access.

About CEFI

CEFI was established under the Association Incorporation Act and officially launched on the 24^th of April 2013. CEFI was endorsed by PNG’s National Executive Council (NEC) as the industry apex organization for coordinating, advocating and moniotoring all financial inclusion activities in PNG.

CEFI’s vision, mission and values focus on financial inclusion and literacy, poverty elimination and the promotion of vibrant financial institutional operation in Papua New Guinea.

Visit our website – www.thecefi.org

Media Contact:

Mr. Leslie Omaro

Communication Officer

Phone: 7464 5678

Email: lomaro@thecefi.org