Full NMSA board members sworn-in
The new board members for the National Maritime Safety Authority were sworn-in this week in Port Moresby.
The board members include Charles Kassman as the Chairman and Mathew Wowoni as the Deputy. Other members of the board are Wilson Orlegge, Captain Max Stossel, Dr. Cecelia Nembou and Niel Papenfus.
They were all appointed by the National Executive Council in December, 2025 and took their oaths of office, officiated by Magistrate, Tracy Ganai.
The appointments were done in accordance with Section 7 (1) of the NMSA Act, which emphasized the board's crucial function to maritime safety.
These new members bring with them experiences that are expected to help the authority deliver to expectations in the next three years in office.
The Chairman of the board, Charles Kassman was appointed as minister's nominee representing the coastal region, bringing wealth of experiences in the corporate sector with speciality in mining services, logistics and supply chain and relationship management.
Deputy Chairman, Mathew Wowoni also brings in over 30 years of experience in the transport sector.
Other board members including Captain Max Stoessel joins the NMSA board, bringing over 30 years of maritime navigation and pilotage experience.
He represents the PNG Shipping Owners Association. Captain Max also serves as Chief Pilot and Managing Director of Niugini Pilots Limited and contributes to regional leadership, conferences and maritime legal reforms in Papua New Guinea.
Former Divine Word University President and Vice Chancellor Dr. Cecilia Nembou also joins the board as the Chamber of Commerce and Industry representative.
She is a mathematician with a PhD, and brings over 40 years of academic leadership experience and national honors, including an OBE and Female Director of the Year award.
Meanwhile, National Research Institute representative, Wilson Orlegge brings more than two decades of senior public service experience.
He has held top management roles, contributed to major national development projects, served on several boards, and holds advanced qualifications in economics, public policy and administration.
In addition, PNG Ports Chief Executive, Niel Papenfus is also another highly skilled professional.
The board will provide oversight and direction for NMSA in the next three years.
This board will help assist in addressing key issues and deliver the outcome expected by the government.
Transport Minister, Miki Keaok says the change in board membership represents the renewal of responsibility and purpose for NMSA.