New Ireland Province is gearing up to host the grand opening of the Boluminski Highway, which will take place next week from the 10th to the 12th of April.
The organising committee, through the leadership of Chairman Solomon Pela and Deputy Memafu Kapera, have been working around the clock to ensure that the venue in Bo-Pire is ready for the two days of celebrations.
“These types of tasks are not easy, and the current weather conditions have not been satisfactory,” said Pela.
“The grounds team have been working day and night to ensure that the deadline is met.”
Governor Sir Julius Chan has also inspected the site to see if work has progressed as scheduled and confirmed that he was satisfied with its current state.
In the lead up to the event on the 10th, 200 pigs will be presented to Governor Sir Julius by the ward presidents and chiefs in true New Ireland custom.
Once the pigs are presented to Sir J, he formally takes ownership and decides who he presents the pigs to on the 11th during the official program.
“This is an event for the whole of New Ireland and the country to celebrate. 100 years since the construction of the Highway is a milestone achievement, the Boluminski Highway has a rich history that is worthy of such a grand gesture,” said Sir J.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill is confirmed as the keynote speaker, other dignitaries to attend include Works Minister Michael Nali, Inter-governmental Minister Kevin Isifu, Minister for Civil Aviation Alfred Manase, Police Minister Jelta Wong, Housing Minister John Kaupa, Tourism Minister Emil Tammur, Minister for Transport Westley Nukundj, Mining Minister Johnson Tuke, Enga Governor Peter Ipatas, East New Britain Governor Nakikus Konga, Western Highlands Governor Paias Wingti, Madang Governor Peter Yama, Gulf Governor Chris Haiveta, Morobe Governor Ginson Saonu and Talasea Open MP Francis Maneke. The Australian High Commissioner, Bruce Davis, will also be attending.