GOVERNOR PARKOP: 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS IN NCD LAUNCHED
National Capital District Governor Hon. Powes Parkop has officially launched PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary Celebration for Amazing Port Moresby this morning at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.
Governor Parkop was amazed by the incredible turnout from city residents, including Asia-Pacific communities, who stood tall to embrace 50 years of PNG’s independence.
The spectacular launch began with a walk, which was not only fun and energizing but also a powerful demonstration of unity as the city prepares for the nation’s golden jubilee anniversary of nationhood.
“In exactly seven months, Papua New Guinea will be 50 years old as a nation. A nation of a thousand tribes and over 800 languages—so diverse in culture, yet against all odds, we have remained strongly united. This unity is our strength, our foundation, and our future,” said Governor Parkop.
He acknowledged the presence of members of the diplomatic corps from Australia, New Zealand, and India, as well as communities from the Pacific Islands—Fiji, Samoa, Tonga—including West Papua, China, and the Philippines, who joined city residents for the launch.
“Today marks the beginning of our celebration in the city, and we embark on this journey with great events lined up in the coming months. This is more than just a celebration; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to a stronger, united, and progressive Papua New Guinea,” Governor Parkop added.
He expressed his gratitude to all Asia-Pacific countries that have contributed and been part of PNG’s development since the 1980s and confirmed their participation in events leading up to the main celebration on September 16, 2025.
Port Moresby Takes the Lead in the National Celebrations
City Manager Ravu Frank assured city residents, international communities, and tourists that Port Moresby will celebrate in grand style, with a fantastic lineup of activities planned in the days and months ahead.
“We have come a long way as a nation, and with strong and determined leadership—past and present—we stand proudly as one people. This milestone gives us every reason to celebrate and look forward to the next 50 years,” said Mr. Frank.
He emphasized that Port Moresby, as the nation’s capital, is taking the lead in this historic occasion to showcase the strength of PNG’s nationhood.
“I want to thank our NCD Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop, for his foresight in marking this significant occasion in a big way in our city and, with the support of our esteemed leaders in the three electorates, the NCDC Board, and the National Government, we will make this a truly historic celebration,” he added.
A Call for Unity and Participation
“Let us be reminded of our forefathers—their struggles and determination for our nation—and may we be inspired and encouraged for the next 50 years and beyond,” said Mr. Frank.
He urged everyone in the city to fully participate in the celebrations, emphasizing that these must not be just events but meaningful expressions of pride and passion, with a strong sense of belonging to our great nation, Papua New Guinea.
Let’s gather as One People, One City, heading towards One Future.
This 50-year journey is all about creating history and inspiring the future.
Together, we are building a city that is vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable—a place where every citizen plays a role in shaping the National Capital District into the best it can be.