This handout picture released by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary on February 19, 2024 shows officials patrolling near the town of Wabag, 600 kilometres northwest of the capital Port Moresby. Photo: AFP PHOTO / ROYAL PAPAU NEW GUINEA CONSTABULARY
Papua New Guinea - peace
Talks are underway between representatives of tribes involved in what has been described as the largest massacre in recent history in Papua New Guinea.
More than 70 people have been killed by warring factions in Enga Province in the last couple of weeks.
The National newspaper reported that the meeting, held at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, was centred around ceasefire and peace talks.
The meeting started on Friday local time but talks are expected to last days.
Fifteen tribes and 19 communities are involved.
It has been labelled a "historic one-of-a-kind meet".
With the killings still front of mind, police say the meeting is fraught with danger.
The National is reporting that there are five ongoing tribal fights in Enga.
Samoa - women
Women in Samoa are speaking out about inappropriate behaviour on public buses.
Several female University of the South Pacific students say they have been touched by strangers while travelling on overcrowded buses, which has made them feel uncomfortable.
The women suggested the government look into providing a safer transport system not only for students but the people of Samoa.
The Samoa Observer reached out to the Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure, but he chose not to comment on overcrowded buses and the need for a new public transport system.
Vanuatu - registry
Vanuatu has launched a registry for people with disabilities.
The Vanuatu Daily Post reports the database system - a first in the Pacific - provides a centralised platform to address the needs of the disabled community.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Justice and Community Services, political advisor Russell Nari said the data system will help with providing medical assistance, as well as humanitarian aid during disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
He said the database system will assist the government in its development policies and decisions on infrastructure.
New Zealand/Pacific - language
New Zealand's Minister for Pacific Peoples has announced dates of Pasifika language weeks this year.
Dr Shane Reti said languages play an important role in strengthening Pacific peoples' sense of identity and belonging.
The language weeks include those for Rotuma, Samoa, Kiribati, Cook Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Fiji, Niue, Tokelau, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.
Rotuma language week is the first to kick off in May.
Cook Islands - wage
Public submissions are open for the Cook Islands national minimum wage review.
The Cook Islands News reports, a panel has been set up to determine the new minimum wage.
There has been a proposal to increase by 30 cents - NZ$9.30 per hour this year.
A government spokesperson said key considerations for the review include post-Covid economic recovery and concerns for workers.
Submissions close on 22 March at 4pm, local time.
