Port Moresby on Sunday 15th February, officially launched its 2026 flagship events program, continuing nationwide celebrations marking Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence.
The ceremony brought together government leaders, traditional Motu Koita custodians, cultural groups, security forces, students and community representatives, reinforcing the capital’s “Amazing Port Moresby” theme of unity and inclusion.
The flagship events calendar will run throughout 2026, culminating on 16 September — exactly 50 years since independence in 1975.
Planned activities include major civic celebrations, cultural festivals, youth and children’s events, environmental observances and international friendship days highlighting Pacific and Asian partnerships.
Speaking at the event, NCD Governor Powes Parkop commended the people of NCD for their hard work during the 2025’s celebrations.
“All the celebration, all the energy and time that we have spent to mark this moment of time in the journey of our people, and this year we are continuing the celebration as part of the amazing Port Moresby celebration.”
He also stressed that Port Moresby carries a dual responsibility as both a city and the nation’s capital — a place where more than 1,000 tribes and over 800 languages congregate.
Governor Parkop called on all residents, institutions and communities to work together to make the city inclusive, safe and vibrant, noting that progress in the capital often sets the tone for the country as a whole.
The 50th anniversary celebrations began on 16 September 2025 and will conclude on 16 September 2026.
