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NCD Governor Parkop on the Anniversary of the Passing of PNG Founding Father

Today on the anniversary of the passing of Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare we will join the rest of the country to celebrate his life and pay him highest respects for the journey he started for our people into nationhood 50 years ago.

 Today we honour his life and conviction too for our people and our country by starting another chapter in this journey Grand Chief and his peers started by making this bid on behalf of our capital city Port Moresby to have a professional football Team in the new Oceania Professional League set up by the Oceania Football Confederation. 

It is no coincidence that we submitted the bid on this day the Anniversary of the passing of the great architect of our nation PNG.

When Grand Chief Somare was asked how will be run and managed a country at and after independence without the professional technocrats etc. 

He replied that my economists, engineers, doctors, accountants, lawyers, etc are in their mothers womb. They will be born after independence and they run and manage the country. 

We in our capital city will not just celebrate his life but truly honour him by manifesting his dreams, this time in Sports. Today we start a new chapter in the great dream Somare had in 1968, an independent state capable of being as good or better than anyone else. 

We wish to make this great dream a reality in Football or Soccer. 

OFC has given deadline for bids by Friday the 28th of February, 2025 but we have submitted today in honour of our founding father of our nation Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare.

 He had great faith and belief in our people. We are confident Port Moresby City FC will be highly competitive and successful if we are granted a license by Oceania Football Confederation. The Somare journey continues.

Transnational Highway from Morobe to Port Moresby Near Completion

The transnational highway connecting Morobe Province to Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby, via Gulf Province is nearing completion, with just 40 more kilometers left to be constructed.

According to a source from the Department of Works and Highways, the project is expected to be finalized by June.

The highway, spanning a total of 158.9 kilometers, aims to bridge the missing link between Oiwa Junction in Aseki, Menyamya, and Epo Junction in Gulf Province. 

Significant progress has been made, with more than 100 kilometers of the road already constructed.

The source confirmed that two teams from the Department of Works and Highways are actively working on different sections of the project to expedite its completion.

Works Secretary Gibson Holemba recently stated in a local print media report that approximately 40 kilometers of the highway, extending from Oiwa Junction to Bema and then to Kotidanga in Gulf Province, is on track for completion by June.

Following the completion of this segment, Holemba noted that construction teams will shift their focus to the section connecting Kerema to Menyamya, further enhancing accessibility and connectivity in the region.

This report was filed by WANPIS AKO

#pngsun #news #ruralpng #pangu #gibsonholemba #menyamya #gulf #portmoresby #transnational #highway #50year #independence #migration #lawandorder #urbandrift

Story Worth the Wait: The Barike Band and Matalau Nakikus

LFor years, as a journalist, I have searched for the untold story behind the legendary Barike Band of Rabaul—a band whose music became the heartbeat of a nation. I longed to speak with Matalau Nakikus, one of the last surviving members of the original Barike, to hear firsthand the journey of this musical powerhouse that shaped Papua New Guinea’s cultural identity.

Yet, despite my many attempts, the story always seemed just out of reach.

But today, as our nation stands on the brink of its 50th Independence Day celebrations, the moment I had been waiting for finally arrived. Matalau Nakikus himself graciously gave me the opportunity to sit with him and dive deep into the history of Barike—a story of music, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of Rabaul, once the true “Pearl of the Pacific”, until that fateful day in September 1994.

I grew up with the music of Barike during my high school years in the 1980s. Their songs were more than just melodies; they were anthems of identity, unity, and pride. Today, as Matalau spoke of Barike’s love for Rabaul and Papua New Guinea, their unwavering devotion to their people and their homeland, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and admiration.

This is more than an interview. It is a chance to preserve the legacy of a band that united generations through their music—especially the timeless anthem “Wan Kantri”, a song that has done more to bring Papua New Guinea together than words ever could.

I can’t wait to share this extraordinary journey with you all.

Stay tuned as we unveil the story of a true Papua New Guinea musical gem. 🇵🇬🎶✨

#BarikeBand #WanKantri #PapuaNewGuinea #MusicalLegacy #Independence50

Great Grand Chief Michael Somare Remembrance Day 26 February 2025

National Capital District Commission led by NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop will be hosting a candle light vigil to remember Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare including past leaders of our great nation.

The organizing team wishes to advise city residents that due to the current weather condition, this memorial event planned for tomorrow evening at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium has now been moved to the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium. 

Please take note and looking forward to seeing you all there.

Date: Wednesday 26th, February 2025

Time: 5:00pm- 8:00pm

Venue: Sir John Guise Stadium 

This special occasion is open to the general public.

NO ENTRY FEE!

Finally Getting an All Weather Road after 50 Years of Independence

After 50 years of Independence, our people in some of the most remote parts of the Sepik Plains are finally getting their roads and seeing cars and PMV trucks in their villages for the first time. Now they can jump on a PMV and go to Wewak instead of walking 6 hours to catch a PMV truck. 

We, the Yangoru-Saussia DDA, just competed an 18-kilometre road from Kiniambo to Sengera covering all the villages in between like Makambu and all the way down to Sengera Community School, which I use to reach by helicopter and by planes. I visited the completed road last week and told the contractor to build one more permanent bridge over the wet crossing between Kiniambo and Makambu. A lot of work has gone into this important road which will, when completed on the Wosera District section, will link us to Yenchen village on the mighty Sepik River. 

I was so happy to see the excitement of our people to finally receive an all weather road after 50 years of Independence. 
Yes, in Yangoru-Saussia we must not leave anyone behind. Wok Must Go Yet, there is no stopping. 

We will have the grand opening of the road at Sengera Primary School on Monday, April 7, 2025.

VANUATU EARTHQUAKE RELIEF TO BE HOSTED BY NCD GOVERNOR HON. POWES PARKOP



Charity Aid Music Concert to Help Melanesian brothers and sisters in City City Port Vila- Vanuatu.

This is a call out to City residents to part take in this Fundraising Drive to help raise funds for our Melansian brothers and sisters who fall victims of Earthquake recently.

The music concert is happening this Sunday 16th of February 2025 from 12:00 noon- 6:pm.

Tickets will be sold at the gate:
K5- Kids
K10 Adults

We will be having some of out of our legendary artists in PNG Music Industry that have united together to help raise funds for our brothers and sisters in Vanuatu. 

See flyer for full details about this charity drive.

WEWAK SEPIK AIRLINE

Bobby Gibbes (World War II Australian Pilot) played a key role in developing aviation in Papua New Guinea. 

He started Sepik Air in the 1950s with a single aircraft. His plane landed at various isolated airstrips in East Sepik; Ambunti, Angoram, Maprik, Karawari etc.

These airstrips were used for transporting cargo medical supplies and passengers especially missionaries. 

In 1972 Dennis Buchanan an Australian businessman and owner of Territory Airlines (TAL) "Talair" took over "Sepik Air". 

Under Buchanans leadership "Talair" grew into Papua New Guineas largest regional airline operating across the country. 

In the 1980s Talair faced financial difficulties and was acquired by Air Niugini marking the end of Talair as an independent airline.

Talair's routes and services were absorbed into Air Niuginis network which continues to serve as the national carrier of Papua New Guinea

(Picture: Wewak Sepik Airline aircraft drops off local passengers after a flight)

Papua New Guinea Achieves Significant Milestone in Maritime Sovereignty


On 6th February 2025, the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) celebrated a significant milestone in its maritime sovereignty by formally submitting its geographical coordinates under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This submission solidifies PNG's territorial boundaries and maritime zones, safeguarding its economic and strategic interests, especially as the nation marks its 50th year of independence.

During the launch of the Marine Scientific Research Guidelines, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs, highlighted the achievement as the culmination of over two decades of efforts, starting with initial submissions in 2002 and the latest update in 2024. This updated data on PNG’s baselines and the outer limits of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) was supported by the Pacific Community (SPC) through the Pacific Maritime Boundaries Project and its consortium of partners. The technical expertise provided by SPC has been essential in ensuring that PNG’s maritime boundaries are clearly defined and internationally recognized.
The Government’s work on this project has also been bolstered by strong partnerships with international donors, including the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. These collaborations have played a key role in helping PNG navigate the technical and legal challenges associated with the process.
The submission is especially timely, as climate change poses a growing threat to PNG’s maritime boundaries. Rising sea levels could potentially alter coastlines and shift maritime borders. Minister Tkatchenko emphasized that securing PNG’s maritime borders is vital to protect its sovereignty in the face of these environmental challenges. This assertion of maritime boundaries also has significant implications for fisheries enforcement, environmental conservation, and regional security, particularly in light of the increasing geopolitical interest in the Pacific region.
Aligned with the 2015 Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Declaration, PNG upholds the principle that maritime base points should remain permanent, regardless of climate-induced sea-level rise. This principle ensures that PNG’s sovereignty is preserved, and its maritime zones remain secure despite the impacts of climate change.
Minister Tkatchenko concluded by stating, “As the region faces growing security concerns, including illegal fishing, transnational crime, and geopolitical pressures, the clear delineation of PNG's maritime borders is critical. This achievement will enhance national security, support sustainable fisheries management, and strengthen PNG’s position in regional and international affairs.”
This milestone reinforces PNG's commitment to preserving its maritime rights and sovereignty, marking a major step forward in its long-term national and regional security strategy.

King Charles III Expresses Condolences on the Passing of Sir Julius Chan

King Charles III has joined many friends of Papua New Guinea overseas in extending his heartfelt condolences following the passing of Chief Sir Julius Chan. 

His message reflects the deep respect and admiration held for Sir Julius, who was a significant figure in Papua New Guinea’s history and development.

The loss of such a prominent leader resonates not only within the nation but also among those who knew him and appreciated his contributions on the global stage. 

King Charles’s acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the connections that exist between countries and the impact that dedicated leaders can have on their communities and beyond.

As Papua New Guinea mourns the loss of Chief Sir Julius Chan, messages of support and remembrance from international figures like King Charles III highlight the legacy he leaves behind and the respect he garnered throughout his life.

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT - HAUS KRAI FOR THE LATE RT. HON. SIR JULIUS CHAN GCL, GCMG, KBE, PC, MP

PORT VILA, VANUATU (3 February 2025): To show our solidarity with the people and Government of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, on the passing of the late Rt. Hon. Sir Julius Chan GCL, GCMG, KBE, PC, MP on Monday the 30th of January 2025, the MSG Secretariat, in collaboration with the Vanuatu Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation & External Trade, will be hosting the signing of the condolence book at the Vanuatu Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation & External Trade in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

The late Rt Honorable Sir Julius Chan, with late Father Walter Hadye Lini and late Sir Peter Kenilorea, contributed immensely to the collective visions that enabled the creation and transformation of the Melanesian Spearhead Group as a formidable sub-regional bloc with shared political, economic, cultural, and social visions. 

The late Rt Honourable Sir Julius Chan also contributed to Vanuatu’s independence when he deployed the PNG Kumul Forces to assist quell the Santo Rebellion. Papua New Guinea's intervention in Vanuatu, at the request of Vanuatu’s Founding Prime Minister Fr. Walter Hadye Lini, demonstrated Melanesian solidarity and capacity to assist each other in the face of neo-colonialist manipulation. This event provided the fertile grounds for the initial thoughts on regional security cooperation. 

As part of the commemoration, the official opening of the “Haus Krai” will be at 9am on Tuesday the 4th of February at the MOFA 
Farea, Independence Park, Port Vila, 
The signing of the condolence book will be held from the 4th to the 6th of February 2024 and it will be open for Government, CSOs and the general public.

During this time, the MSG Secretariat will, show visual presentations of the late Sir Julius Chan for those who may wish to know more about the history of the Founding Father of MSG, Former Prime Minister and longest serving Member of Parliament of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea. 

Below is the official program for the commemoration.

Thank you and God Bless.

Ilan Kiloe
Acting Director General

NCD Governor Hosts Haus Krai to Honour Late Sir Julius Chan

TNational Capital District (NCD) Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop, hosted a Haus Krai (mourning place) at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, providing an opportunity for Members of Parliament, senior bureaucrats, and the public to pay their final respects to the last founding father of Papua New Guinea, Sir Julius Chan, who passed away last Thursday.

The solemn gathering saw Governor Parkop, Prime Minister James Marape, Members of Parliament and government officials share heartfelt tributes, recognizing former prime minister and New Ireland Governor, late Sir Julius' immense contributions to the nation.

Speaking on behalf of the municipal government, his family, and the people of NCD, Governor Parkop described Sir Julius as a man of small stature but a giant in political and business leadership.

He reflected on Sir Julius' political journey from 1939 to January 30, 2025—nearly 50 years in politics—and how his decisions, though at times controversial, shaped the nation.

"Words alone are not enough to honor his achievements. He now joins the ranks of our former Prime Ministers—Sir Michael Somare, Sir Mekere Morauta, and Sir Rabbie Namaliu. I deeply regret not visiting him last year or paying tribute while he was still alive.

I had hoped to do so in Parliament this year, but it is too late. His passing reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating those still with us."

Governor Parkop also expressed hope that Sir Julius' successor would continue pursuing key initiatives such as the Malagan Accord and provincial autonomy, which were dear to him.

Central Governor Hon. Rufina Peter described Sir Julius as a true giant, stating that his steady leadership guided the country from the dawn of independence.

She praised his commitment to unity, economic prosperity, and provincial autonomy, particularly advocating for resource owners' rights.

Opposition Leader Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa acknowledged the people of New Ireland for returning Sir Julius to Parliament for almost 50 years.

He honored Sir Julius as a defender of the Constitution who had a deep commitment to PNG's progress.

"Sadly, he closes the chapter of our nation's founders' history on the 50th anniversary of our independence. He dedicated his life to nation-building and was a key figure in strengthening our economy," he said.

Representing the judiciary, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika described him as one of the founding fathers who gave us the best gift that is the Constitution of PNG and urged everyone to abide by it and respect this great document at the utmost level.

Former Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill praised Sir Julius as a shining example of leadership, saying: "He was not just about doing good but ensuring that things were done right."

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape concluded the tributes by expressing gratitude to Sir Julius’ family and the people of New Ireland.

He acknowledged the legacy of Sir Julius and his fellow founding fathers, including the late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare, for their role in bringing Papua New Guinea to where it is today.

On behalf of the Chan family, Byron Chan, son of the late Sir Julius, extended heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Marape, Governor Parkop, and all those who gathered to honor his father’s life and contributions.

Sir Julius Chan’s legacy as a statesman, economic visionary, and champion of PNG’s autonomy will continue to inspire future generations.

POM GENERAL HOSPITAL COMMISSIONS KEY MACHINES FOR GROUNDBREAKING KIDNEY TRANSPLANT PROGRAM


Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) is poised to make medical history with the commissioning of two state-of-the-art machines that will significantly enhance the hospital's kidney transplant program.

PMGH CEO, Dr Paki Molumi said: "This milestone marks a major achievement not only for Papua New Guinea but also for the broader Pacific region."
The recently commissioned machines, the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Machine and the Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) Device, are set to revolutionize the way kidney transplants are managed at PMGH.
"The HLA Machine plays a critical role in compatibility testing between organ donors and recipients, ensuring successful transplants with reduced risks of rejection," said Dr Molumi.
Meanwhile, the TDM Device is designed to monitor immunosuppressive drug levels in patients after their transplants, a vital process to prevent complications and ensure long-term transplant success.
Prior to the installation of these machines, PMGH had to send blood samples overseas for testing—a process that was both time-consuming and costly. The new equipment will not only streamline transplant procedures but also reduce dependency on external laboratories, enhancing the hospital’s capacity to deliver timely, life-saving treatments.
"The commissioning of these machines represents a significant step forward in Papua New Guinea’s healthcare landscape, reflecting PMGH's commitment to advancing medical technology and providing world-class healthcare services to its people," said Dr Molumi.