Sarufa takes command of PNGDF Engineering Battalion

Monday, 18 May 2026, 12:28 pm

Lieutenant Colonel Eka Sarufa. (NBC News)

Lieutenant Colonel Eka Sarufa from Gulf Province has been appointed the new Commander of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force’s Engineering Battalion.

A handover-takeover ceremony was held at Igam Barracks in Lae on Friday, marking the transition of leadership from the 19th Commander to the Battalion’s 20th Commander.

Lt Col Sarufa said he was confident in taking up the role, drawing from his previous leadership responsibilities within the force.

“My leadership is based on four pillars, discipline, accountability, professionalism and empowerment,” he said.

Exchanging of belts, sign of passing on the leadership role from outgoing to the new. (NBC News)

He urged members of the Battalion to continue working together in unity to strengthen the organisation’s contribution to nation-building and development.

Lt Col Sarufa also acknowledged the support of his family, especially his wife and four children, for standing by him throughout his military career.

He will serve a two-year term as the Battalion’s 20th Commander, continuing the unit’s role in supporting national development initiatives across the country.

Meanwhile, outgoing Commander Lieutenant Colonel Moore Kagena will move on to his next appointment within the PNG Defence Force.

Lt Col Kagena congratulated his successor and wished him well in his new role.

“I wish you and your family all the best in this appointment,” he said.

He also encouraged Battalion members to continue working together and remain committed to the