2017 Independence Day

Apart from drunken youths disturbing communities, police in most provinces were out in full force during the Independence weekend to ensure everyone celebrated Independence peacefully.

Provincial Police Commander for New Ireland, John Midi, said he was grateful to the local communities in the province for ensuring that the youths were kept in line with traditional values.

“Thus, celebrating the country’s independence peacefully.”

Similar reports came from the Manus PPC, David Yapu.

The unity march begun this morning at the Sir Hubert Murray stadium and ended at the Paga Hill Ring Road, where the two-day Street festival will be held.

Stalls have been set up that will go with traditional singsing and fun games.

Independence celebrations are also held at the Unagi Oval at Gordon, where city residents will be entertained by various local artists, including Dadigii, Lista Serum, Wild Pack and Junior K-Mala, among others.

The late Susan Karike-Huhume passed away on the afternoon of April 11 at the Port Moresby General Hospital.

In 1971, at the tender age of 15, the late Karike-Huhume played a major role in contributing to the identity of this country.

During that time, the country was preparing for independence so the government invited all Papua New Guineans to enter a designs competition to help find a PNG flag.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop, with the support of the Board, Management and staff of the National Capital District Commission, have taken the lead again to organise various activities to commemorate this important event in the country’s political history.

“There will be a lot of fun and enjoyment for the residents of NCD as part of the celebrations for our 42^nd anniversary of independence from September 15-17,” says chairman of the NCDC Independence Planning Committee Numa Alu.

Vendors have taken to the streets of Port Moresby in anticipation of the country’s 41st Independence.

Black, red and gold retail merchandise are being seen to be found at every turn of the corner, coupled with the flags of the 22 provinces in various sizes.

A good number of young boys including some older aged adults were seen walking around, some standing at traffic lights along the Waigani drive, bus stops and main market areas, giving commuters the opportunity to get a flag for K2 or K5.

The Port Moresby Canoe Racing Association received funding support to host the activity.

Receiving the cheque from the representatives of the PNG Chinese Association, President of POM Canoe Racing, Kila Gulo-Vui, said canoe racing is much loved by coastal Papua New Guineans.

"I am grateful for this assistance as it is the launching pad for yet another successful staging of the canoe racing festival," said Gulo-Vui.

PNG Chinese Association representatives said they are part of the city and the assistance signifies their appreciation for the people of Port Moresby.