National Capital District (NCD) City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank has called on residents of Port Moresby to embrace reflection, and renewed determination as the city farewelled 2025 and welcomed the New Year at Ela Beach on Wednesday night.
Speaking during the New Year’s Eve celebrations Mr. Frank described 2025 as a challenging yet eventful year, marked by resilience, perseverance, and the celebration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence.
“This year was not smooth sailing for everyone.”
“We had our ups and downs, rough patches and difficult moments, but we pushed through. That fighting spirit shows our determination and commitment to succeed despite challenges.”
He congratulated residents for completing the year’s journey and acknowledged the realities of urban life in a fast-growing and culturally diverse capital city, noting that surviving and thriving in Port Moresby requires courage, resilience, and the right mindset.
Mr. Frank commended the leadership of the NCD Governor, the three Open Members, the NCDC Board and Management, and the Motu Koita leadership for their efforts in delivering services and maintaining the city amidst ongoing challenges.
As the country marked 50 years of Independence in 2025, the City Manager said the year would remain a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s history, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
“It was a special year that will never come again.”
“I am honoured to be alive during this historic period and to have witnessed and contributed to the golden jubilee celebrations as City Manager.”
He thanked city residents for their continued support towards NCDC’s efforts to make Port Moresby a safer, more liveable city and encouraged the public to carry that support into 2026 with renewed energy and a willingness to improve from past shortcomings.
Mr. Frank urged residents to use the New Year as an opportunity to reflect on their personal and professional lives, learn from failures, build on successes, and support one another as members of one city family.
“Let us leave behind our frustrations and negative ways and enter 2026 with refreshed and refocused minds, ready to meet new challenges and opportunities.”
