Amazing Port Moresby Set To Host The 7th Pacific Urban Forum

Port Moresby will proudly host the 7th Pacific Urban Forum from March 24–26, 2026 at APEC Haus, marking the first time Papua New Guinea welcomes this landmark regional event. Over 300 delegates from across the Pacific, including Fiji, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands, Nauru, Kiribati, Australia, and New Zealand, are expected to attend.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop stated, “For the first time in history, Port Moresby will host the Pacific Urban Forum, a proud milestone for our capital and nation.

“This is not just an event; it is a statement that Port Moresby is ready to lead regional dialogue on urbanization and sustainable development,” Governor Parkop said.

The Forum will highlight Port Moresby’s transformation and commitment to inclusive growth, supported by the PNG National Housing Corporation, CDC, UN-Habitat, ESCAP, and Pacific partners. Discussions will focus on infrastructure, housing, livelihoods, health, and climate-resilient materials—the foundations of resilient communities.

Coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations, the Forum will highlight Port Moresby’s achievements and future vision for an “Amazing Port Moresby” over the next 50 years.

Delegates will also experience the city’s rich cultural diversity in music, art, food, and entertainment.

PNG National Housing and Urbanization Managing Director Abel Tol, on behalf of Minister for Housing and Urbanization Dr. Kobby Bomareo and the Marape-Rosso Government, announced a K2 million commitment to host the Forum.

He emphasized the need for nature-based, climate-effective housing solutions that honor the environment while meeting community needs.

“Outcomes will contribute to a unified Pacific position for the Asia-Pacific Urban Forum in Yokohama, Japan, 2027,” Mr. Tol said.

The Forum will strengthen regional collaboration, including renewed sister-city agreements with Jayapura, Honiara, and Port Vila, and foster partnerships with the private sector to address urban challenges. As engines of growth and culture, Pacific cities will share experiences to shape inclusive, safe, healthy, and sustainable urban futures.

Governor Parkop concluded, “This Forum is a collective commitment to ensure Pacific voices are heard on Asia-Pacific and global platforms.”