Category: News Article

The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) and The Leprosy Mission Papua New Guinea (TLM-PNG) have formalised a new partnership aimed at improving financial literacy and financial inclusion among vulnerable communities across Papua New Guinea.

The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday March 31 at the CEFI Office in Port Moresby. The agreement establishes a collaborative framework for delivering financial literacy training and related financial inclusion initiatives over the next three years.

Under the partnership, CEFI will provide financial literacy training for 25 TLM-PNG staff and key volunteers who are actively involved in community-based development programmes. The training will support projects where financial capability is essential, including the Preventive Health and Community Empowerment (PHACE) programme, Sustainable Active, Fearless and Empowered (SAFE) Communities initiative, Kominiti Assistance Package (KAP) and  Climate Change Resilience (CCR), and crab farming projects.

In addition, the programme aims to reach at least 500 community participants over the three-year period of the MoU through community-based retail financial literacy training.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, CEFI Acting Executive Director Mr. Peter Samuel described the partnership as an important milestone for the organisation. He said the collaboration marks the first time CEFI has entered into a formal partnership with a health-focused organisation working directly with marginalised communities.

Mr. Samuel noted that CEFI has traditionally partnered with financial institutions but emphasised that financial inclusion must extend beyond the financial sector.

“For us, this is a very unique partnership because we have mainly focused on traditional partners such as financial institutions. However, our agenda and even our name speaks about financial inclusion,” he said.

He added that the concept of inclusion must recognise organisations that work with individuals who are often excluded from mainstream systems and services.

“The word inclusion should not exclude other agencies that play a critical role in supporting people who are marginalised,” Mr. Samuel stated. “Your organisation empowers groups of people who are often outcast by society or overlooked by institutions.”

Mr. Samuel also encouraged both organisations to ensure the partnership translates into meaningful action and tangible results for communities.

“Let us not just sign the MoU and put it aside,” he said. “We must share our work programmes and find ways to collaborate so that the partnership delivers real outcomes for the communities we serve.”

Senior Programme Manager for PHACE, Mr. Larson Neayambe, welcomed the partnership and expressed appreciation for CEFI’s support in strengthening the organisation’s community empowerment initiatives.

Mr. Neayambe explained that while TLM-PNG primarily focuses on health programmes related to leprosy detection, treatment and patient support, the organisation is increasingly integrating livelihood and empowerment initiatives to address poverty and social exclusion.

He noted that programmes such as the SAFE initiative aim to equip vulnerable individuals, including those affected by leprosy, with literacy skills and livelihood opportunities so they can become self-reliant.

“We want to see projects that empower people so they can sustain themselves,” he said.

Mr. Neayambe also acknowledged that TLM-PNG does not have the technical expertise to deliver financial literacy training independently, making the partnership with CEFI particularly valuable.

“We are a health organisation and we don’t have the capacity or expertise to facilitate financial literacy training,” he said. “Thank you so much for accepting us and agreeing to sign this MoU.”

Through the partnership, CEFI will also provide complementary support to strengthen financial inclusion within TLM-PNG programmes, including promoting digital personal banking and facilitating bank account openings for community participants during or immediately after financial literacy training sessions.

Both organisations expressed confidence that the collaboration will contribute to improved financial capability, stronger livelihoods, and greater social inclusion for vulnerable communities across Papua New Guinea.

Ends.

Image Captions:

Image 1: CEFI Acting Executive Director Mr. Peter Samuel delivering his opening remarks during the signing ceremony (right).

Image 2: Mr Larson Neayambu from The Leprosy Mission PNG delivering his remarks on behalf of TLM during the signing ceremony.

Image 3: Mr Larson Neayambu (right) and Mr Peter Samuel (left) participating in the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Image 4: Mr Larson Neayambu (right) and Mr Peter Samuel signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Image 5: Mr Larson Neayambu and Mr Peter Samuel pose for the official photograph following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

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) formally congratulates Mr. Albert Mokis Ahabh, the National Financial Inclusion Strategy Implementation Coordinator, on successfully completing his Master of Business Administration (MBA) (Management) programme at Divine Word University, Port Moresby Campus, graduating with the highest grade point average in his class.

In his congratulatory remarks, CEFI’s Acting Executive Director, Mr. Peter Samuel, stated that Mr. Albert Mokis Ahabh’s achievement serves as an inspiration to his colleagues, encouraging them to pursue further education to enhance their knowledge and build their confidence.

“CEFI remains committed to supporting the professional development of its staff. Throughout the two-year programme from 2024 to 2025, Mr. Albert Mokis Ahabh demonstrated exceptional dedication and academic excellence, culminating in his graduation on 13 March. This is indeed a remarkable achievement,” Mr. Samuel said.

He further expressed optimism about Mr. Albert Mokis Ahabh’s future contributions, stating, “We look forward to his continued involvement in financial inclusion initiatives and the positive impact he will have on the lives of our people.”

Mr. Albert Mokis Ahabh has been employed by CEFI since 2017, following his graduation with a degree from the University of Papua New Guinea, and a qualification in Microfinance from the Institute of Banking and Business Management.

Ends.

Images:

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

Two representatives from the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) returned from a regional Business Link Pacific (BLP) workshop held in Fiji, bringing back invaluable insights on enhancing the support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They were also honoured with a prestigious award during the event.

Ms. Adelle Auhava and Mrs. Daisy Moses represented CEFI at the two-day workshop, which took place from 11 to 13 March in Nadi, Fiji.

The gathering brought together 14 Business Service Managers from various Pacific island nations and seven executives from New Zealand-based BLP partners. This was the first in-person meeting of Business Service Managers since the BLP programme’s launch in 2017.

The workshop culminated in an awards ceremony recognising the contributions of private sector organisations (PSOs) and individuals advancing the BLP initiative.

CEFI was awarded for its partnership with the BLP programme, while Ms. Auhava received the Networking Award for her efforts in fostering strong collaborations among SMEs, financial institutions, and programme partners.

“Receiving this recognition underscores the vital work being done in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to support SME growth and financial inclusion,” Ms. Auhava commented after the event.

CEFI’s Acting Executive Director, Mr. Peter Samuel, congratulated Ms. Auhava and Mrs. Moses  for their exemplary representation of CEFI and PNG at the regional workshop.

“This recognition reflects the increasing role that CEFI plays in bolstering SME development and financial inclusion within the country. The insights gained from the Fiji workshop would enhance programme implementation in Papua New Guinea, providing further opportunities for local SMEs to thrive in a competitive landscape,” Mr. Samuel stated.

Mr. Samuel commended representatives from financial institutions that helped facilitate concessional loans for SMEs, stating that such partnerships are crucial for ensuring access to essential capital.

“The programme positively impacts lives by enhancing business operations and opening funding avenues for SMEs,” Mr. Samuel said.

Mr. Samuel acknowledge, Daisy for her contributions, which have notably increased the volume of SME assessments and programme activities in recent months.

The workshop’s agenda included site visits to businesses currently benefiting from the BLP programme, enabling participants to witness first-hand the financial support and advisory services being provided.

“One of the organisations we visited is a specialised financial institution exclusively supporting sugarcane growers in Fiji,” Ms. Auhava reported.

“Targeted financing models like this could offer valuable insights to other Pacific nations seeking to enhance agricultural value chains,” she added.

In addition to field visits, the workshop provided refresher sessions on core BLP components, including access to concessional loans, marketing strategies, and business diagnostic tools.

Participants exchanged experiences and discussed methods for improving programme delivery.

“Networking and sharing insights from our regions were incredibly valuable,” Ms. Auhava added. “This exchange of knowledge will surely benefit our approach back here in our country.”

CEFI plays a important role in the BLP initiative, connecting SMEs with vital resources.

Ms. Auhava further stated that businesses participating in the programme undergo diagnostic assessments to highlight areas for operational enhancement. Following this, they can access advisory services and apply for grants to facilitate growth.

“Among the new initiatives introduced during the workshop was the extension of the BLP Programme in Mt. Hagen Western Highlands Province which will be managed by the Western Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Industry that will be designed to provide additional financial backing and Business Advisory Services to the business community not only in Mt. Hagen but the Highlands Region in PNG who are aiming to scale operations. The BLP programme also continues to offer subsidies for advisory services, enabling SMEs to access professional support in financial management and business development,” she said.

The workshop witnessed participation from nine Pacific nations Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Niue and the Cook Islands.

Papua New Guinea having the largest representation, further emphasising the significance of the programme in the country’s SME development efforts.

Ends.

Images:

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

CEFI’s Acting Executive Director Mr Peter Samuel joined 80 proud graduates at a heartwarming mini graduation ceremony held at Paglum SDA Secondary Hall, marking the successful completion of a three-day Retail Training programme.

The  training , which concluded on Wednesday 18th March, brought together participants from the Ramoi Ouknimbo Community Development Association in Mul-Baiyer District, Western Highlands, an area now celebrating its first-ever financial literacy initiative of this calibre.

Other guests who witnessed the graduation included Acting Department Manager, Payments at Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) Mr Stephen Pouru, Senior Currency Officer Mr Delson Opos – BPNG, Mr Max Siwi from the Securities Commission of Papua New Guinea, and other key stakeholders.

In his congratulatory address, Mr Samuel encouraged graduates to harness their new skills to lift and improve their communities. “Put into good use the skills and knowledge learnt in this Retail Training. Let it transform your way of living,” Mr. Samuel said.

Mr. Rex Kuni from the Ramoi Ouknimbo Community Development Association said, “This was a first of its kind in our community and we are incredibly thankful to CEFI for recognising our association and delivering this training,”

The three-day retail training was facilitated by three women, Rita Krai, Angel Mong, and Lillian Namba.

According to one of the trainers, Rita Krai, she explained that the main purpose of the training is that, although people have money, they often spend it unwisely.

“That’s why we teach them to save specifically, two types of savings, emergency savings and general savings. The emergency savings help us to build upon our general savings more effectively. We also teach them to budget and track their cash flow, or keep proper records of it,” said Rita.

The journey began on Monday 16th March, when Mr Samuel opened the programme with a heartfelt speech acknowledging faith leaders, the church, and programme partners for their unwavering guidance. He paid special tribute to the dedicated CEFI Trainers and the warm community welcome that made the initiative possible.

His message resonated throughout the three days: unity, learning, and empowerment through practical skills and shared values.

The participants’ gratitude was palpable. For many, this training represented not just education, but recognition, opportunity, and hope for their community’s future.

Ends.

Images:

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) held its annual Staff Dedication Service on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, at the CEFI Office in Port Moresby, reaffirming its commitment to integrity, discipline and people-centred service.

The event brought together CEFI staff and invited guests, including Mr Edric Ogomeni, FASU (BPNG) Intelligence Manager, and Pastor Peter Bogembo, who led the service.

Held under the theme “Serving with the Right Intention”, the dedication focused on the importance of faithfulness, integrity and consistency in both personal and professional life.

The key scripture, Luke 16:10, reminded the staff that faithfulness in small matters determines trustworthiness in greater responsibilities.

In his remarks, CEFI Acting Director Mr Peter Samuel expressed gratitude to God and thanked Pastor Bogembo for accepting the invitation to lead the service. He described the dedication as a meaningful occasion that reflected CEFI’s values and its purpose as a national institution.

Mr Samuel highlighted that CEFI’s work in promoting financial inclusion and literacy was closely aligned with biblical principles, particularly discipline, stewardship and responsible behaviour. He noted that encouraging people to save, budget and plan for the future required the same values of honesty and self-control emphasised in scripture.

“One of our key roles is about discipline,” Mr Samuel said, adding that teaching communities to save small amounts over time could lead to long-term financial security and the realisation of personal goals. He stressed that these principles applied equally to work, family life and national development.

He also reaffirmed that the Staff Dedication Service had become an annual tradition at CEFI, reflecting the organisation’s desire to ground its work in strong moral foundations. Mr Samuel emphasised that small, consistent actions mattered, noting that incremental efforts could build towards retirement security, future aspirations and sustainable livelihoods when aligned with values and purpose.

Concluding his address, Mr Samuel reiterated that CEFI was fundamentally a people-focused institution and expressed openness to future collaboration with Pastor Bogembo and his church in areas of shared interest. He thanked staff for their participation and encouraged them to reflect on the significance of the dedication as they carried out their responsibilities.

In his sermon, Pastor Peter Bogembo challenged CEFI staff to uphold integrity, wisdom and principled leadership, describing their work as having the potential to “change the trajectory of this nation”. He said staff had been strategically positioned by God in the marketplace, much like biblical figures Daniel and Joseph, to influence national outcomes through ethical leadership and sound decision-making.

Pastor Bogembo prayed for a spirit of wisdom, revelation and understanding, cautioning that knowledge without understanding could limit growth. He also addressed broader national challenges, including violence, governance and development, urging leaders to think critically and avoid over-reliance on government support, which he warned could weaken entrepreneurship and personal responsibility.

Emphasizing honesty and stewardship, he reminded staff that faithfulness in small matters determined success in greater responsibilities. He encouraged them to uphold the values taught by family, culture and faith, concluding that integrity would lead to lasting impact and divine favour.

Ends.

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

Caption for Images:  Photos showing CEFI’s annual Staff Dedication Service.

The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) has successfully delivered a five-day Financial Literacy Train the Trainer (ToT) programme under its Expression of Interest arrangement, held from 15 to 19 December 2025.

The Expression of Interest arrangement enables interested individuals to undertake accredited Financial Literacy Training and become certified trainers, strengthening national capacity to promote sound financial practices across Papua New Guinea.

The ToT programme aimed to equip and empower public servants, small and medium enterprise (SME) operators and individuals with effective training techniques and personal money management skills, enabling them to transfer this knowledge within their communities.

A total of 26 participants graduated as certified Financial Literacy Trainers, including 18 women. Certificates were formally presented on Friday, 19 December, at the CEFI Office in Port Moresby.

CEFI’s Acting Executive Director, Mr Peter Samuel, commended participants, particularly those who had self-sponsored their attendance. “Your willingness to invest in yourselves reflects a genuine passion for promoting financial literacy,” Mr Samuel said. He reminded graduates that while the training had equipped them with tools and knowledge, “the responsibility now rests with you to become agents of change in your communities.”

Mr Samuel highlighted that Papua New Guinea continued to face a weak savings culture. “Many citizens still treat bank accounts as transit points rather than long-term savings instruments,” he said, noting that nearly 80 per cent of the population remained in the informal sector. He explained that CEFI was established by the Central Bank of Papua New Guinea to address these challenges through development-focused initiatives, including the integration of financial education into the national school curriculum. “We expect pilot implementation before a nationwide rollout by 2027,” he added.

CEFI’s Acting Manager for Financial Inclusion and Capacity Development, Mr Sebastian Mugup, thanked participants and their sponsoring organisations for their commitment. He confirmed that graduates were now nationally recognised financial literacy trainers. “This certification will support future access to microfinance and loans,” Mr Mugup said.

Participant Mr Koda Daniel described the training as timely, stating that “financial literacy and a strong savings culture are critical for long-term economic change.”

Female participant Ms Wenley Bosing, a teacher at La Salle Technical School, expressed gratitude on behalf of the women trainers, noting that the programme had strengthened professional networks and empowered trainers to serve communities nationwide.

Ends.

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

Images from the five-day Financial Literacy Train the Trainer (ToT) programme under its Expression of Interest arrangement, held from 15 to 19 December 2025.

A five-day Financial Literacy Training of Trainers programme has been successfully conducted by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Sustainable Development Program Limited (PNGSDP). The event took place at Morehead Primary School in Western Province from 26th to 30th November 2025.

According to CEFI, the training aimed to enhance financial capability and promote inclusive economic development in one of Papua New Guinea’s most remote regions. A total of 12 young participants seven men and five women took part in the programme. The group comprised market vendors, students, and PNGSDP staff. All participants graduated as certified Financial Literacy Trainers after completing the course.

CEFI reported that the training focused on key areas such as money management, savings, budgeting, and financial planning. Through this initiative, participants were empowered to deliver financial literacy education within their communities, extending practical knowledge to households and local groups across the region.

The partnership between CEFI and PNGSDP was described as a milestone in advancing financial inclusion and sustainable livelihoods in Western Province. CEFI acknowledged PNGSDP for its logistical and operational support in Morehead and Balimo, as well as for its ongoing collaboration in promoting financial education in rural areas.

CEFI Trainer Mr. Paul Tamate expressed appreciation to PNGSDP’s management and staff, the local coordinators, and all participants who contributed to the programme’s success. Mr. Tamate said the collaboration demonstrated the shared commitment of both organisations to improving financial literacy and community resilience.

The training also aligned with PNGSDP’s broader goal of empowering small business owners, table market vendors, and young people with financial skills. In partnership with MiBank, CEFI and PNGSDP are working to expand financial literacy initiatives that support household income generation and long-term financial stability in underserved areas.

Located in the Trans-Fly lowlands near the Arafura Sea, Morehead faces significant development challenges, including poor road access, seasonal flooding, and limited economic opportunities. CEFI noted that empowering local trainers with financial skills would help address these barriers by fostering entrepreneurship and informed financial decision-making.

By the end of the training, all 12 participants had received official CEFI ToT certificates, marking an important step towards strengthening community-led financial education in Papua New Guinea’s Western Province.

Ends.

Images the  five-day Financial Literacy Training of Trainers programme successfully conducted by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Sustainable Development Program Limited (PNGSDP). The event took place at Morehead Primary School in Western Province from 26th to 30th November 2025.

A partnership between the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) and the Department of Community Development has brought financial literacy education to church leaders in Papua New Guinea’s Western Highlands Province under the Church Partnership Programme.

The week-long Financial Literacy Training of Trainers , held from 24 to 28 November 2025 at Koibuga Village outside Mt Hagen, has drawn 31 participants (18 men and 13 women) representing various churches across the province. The training aims to equip participants with the financial knowledge and practical skills needed to educate and empower their communities.

According to CEFI officials, the initiative is designed to “build stronger, financially confident communities one training at a time.” Participants are being trained in budgeting, saving, and financial management to enable them to become trainers in their respective congregations.

During the Budgeting Session Presentations on 28 November, participants delivered individual presentations demonstrating their understanding of key financial principles. Organisers described the session as a “milestone achievement” in strengthening church partnerships and promoting financial resilience at the grassroots level.

One of the trainees, Daniel George, a 37-year-old driver and storeman from Kimininga Village, shared how the training had transformed his approach to money management. “Before attending the training, my financial behaviour was not well managed,” he said. “I often spent money on unplanned items and didn’t follow a budget.”

After completing the course, Mr George reported significant behavioural changes. “I now use a clear budget to guide my monthly expenses, prioritise essential needs, and save more consistently,” he explained. He added that the training had boosted his confidence in managing money and had improved his family’s ability to meet important needs such as school fees and household costs.

Another participant, Mary Berobero, a 49-year-old peer worker from Manus Province, said the training helped her overcome unnecessary spending and peer pressure. “I have learnt to save and budget to meet both short-term and long-term goals,” she said. Ms Berobero added that she now feels motivated to help her family and others in her community make positive financial changes.

CEFI trainer Mr Sebastain Mugup, who facilitated the sessions, commended the participants’ enthusiasm and commitment. He noted that empowering community and church leaders through such programmes is vital for sustaining financial literacy and stability across Papua New Guinea.

Ends.

Images showing the week-long Financial Literacy Training of Trainers , held from 24 to 28 November 2025 at Koibuga Village outside Mt Hagen.