Friday, 16 May 2025
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has issued a national appeal for all Papua New Guineans to actively prepare for the country’s historic 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, 2025, calling the event a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for reflection, unity, and national pride.
“With just four months remaining before our golden jubilee, I appeal to all provinces, districts, and local governments to begin organising meaningful celebrations in their communities,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “Fifty years only comes once in our lifetime. It is a moment of reflection, pride, and unity for all Papua New Guineans.”
The Prime Minister stressed that despite the many social, economic, and political challenges faced over the past five decades, Papua New Guinea has upheld its sovereignty and democratic values.
“Our country remains intact,” he said. “Through all the ups and downs, we have produced leaders from all corners of the nation—Prime Ministers, Governors-General, Opposition Leaders, Speakers, Chief Justices, Police Commissioners, Defence Force Commanders—and that reflects the strength of our national unity and diversity.”
Marape called on citizens across all four regions and from the country’s more than 800 language groups to take ownership of the milestone by planning activities that reflect PNG’s journey and unique identity.
“This is not just a government event—it’s a national celebration for all our people,” he emphasized. “We want the 50th anniversary to be the mother of all celebrations. Let us come together as one nation, many tribes, many tongues, but one people under one flag.”
He also announced that the 50th anniversary will mark the beginning of a full year of commemorative events, running from September 16, 2025, to September 15, 2026. These will include the PNG Games in Southern Highlands, community festivals, educational programs, government collaborations, and major infrastructure launches.
“Our 50th anniversary marks the beginning of a national reset,” Marape said. “It is a time to renew our commitment to building a better, safer, stronger country.”
Acknowledging the country’s ongoing issues, including law and order, inequality, and poverty, he urged perspective and resilience, saying even global cities like New York continue to face serious challenges.
“No country is without problems,” he said. “What matters is our will to work together. If you have ideas, if you want change, bring those views to the ballot in 2027. If you are an entrepreneur, invest in the vast opportunities across our nation.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted ambitious economic targets, noting plans to grow PNG’s economy from under K100 billion to over K200 billion, driven by resource projects such as gas, mining, and energy. He pointed to over K150 billion in projected investments between 2025 and 2035.
He further cited the country’s first successful kidney transplant, performed on two patients, as a landmark moment in improving national healthcare.
“Yesterday, we witnessed the first successful kidney transplant on two patients. That’s a historic first for Papua New Guinea,” Marape said. “It shows we are making serious efforts to catch up with the world in healthcare and quality of life. We are on the move.”
In closing, Prime Minister Marape delivered a unifying message for the nation:
“As we approach 50 years, let us rise above our differences. Let us celebrate our journey together. Let us look forward with faith and work as one nation, under God, toward the next 50 years.”