PORT MORESBY FORWARD: A CALL FOR UNITY AND PROGRESS

Building a Safer, More Prosperous City in Our Nation’s 50th Anniversary

As we embrace 2025 and approach our Golden Jubilee, I extend my warmest greetings to all residents of Port Moresby.

Our nation’s capital continues to evolve as the gateway to Papua New Guinea and a pivotal hub for the Pacific region.

Through both challenges and triumphs, we have emerged stronger and more determined to build a city worthy of its title as the “Pearl of the Pacific.”

Through the Amazing Port Moresby global branding campaign, we are determined to showcase our vibrant culture, economic vitality, and unique heritage on the international stage.

Central to this vision is a steadfast focus on security. My administration is committed to strengthening community policing, bolstering night-time lighting across all suburbs and settlements, and enhancing public transport safety.

Women and girls, in particular, will benefit from programs designed to foster a safer urban environment. We must uphold Port Moresby as a model for inclusivity and well-being, ensuring that everyone who calls this city home can thrive without fear.

Infrastructure development also lies at the heart of our agenda. We will accelerate the upgrading of roads and highways, especially in growing settlements like 8 Mile, so they can evolve into organized and fully serviced suburbs. Major markets, hospitals, and educational institutions will be upgraded or newly built, fueling economic growth and elevating our residents’ quality of life.

Together with our partners in government and the private sector, we aspire to deliver modern amenities that truly reflect our city’s potential.

Equally vital is our unwavering support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). By creating thriving business hubs, we will help local entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful ventures. We will also pursue national sporting ambitions, preparing for a PNG NRL franchise and upgrading sports facilities.

These initiatives not only inspire regional pride but also generate opportunities for youth engagement and community development.

Transformative social programs underpin these economic and infrastructure endeavors. From youth employment and TVET training to cultural festivals, my administration seeks to empower residents of all ages and backgrounds.

Through the Active City Development Program and the Urban Youth Employment Program, we are equipping our young people with skills and pathways for success, while City Wardens, POM City Watch, and Neighbourhood Watch Programs help reinforce community cohesion and safety.

Together, these efforts ensure Port Moresby’s social fabric remains strong, dynamic, and inclusive.

As we look towards our Golden Jubilee in 2025, Port Moresby must rise to the occasion and lead the nation’s celebrations with pride.

Through unity, transparent governance, and “delivery, delivery, delivery,” we can make our capital a symbol of progress and hope for Papua New Guinea.

I call on every resident to play a part—report criminal activities, maintain cleanliness, and participate in community forums—so that together, we can build a safer, more prosperous city for generations to come.

God Bless Port Moresby, and God Bless Papua New Guinea.

Hon. Powes Parkop, LLB, LLM, MP

Governor, National Capital District