In a heartfelt tribute to the Late Valentine H. Kambori, Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu, OBE, has praised the remarkable life and legacy of a man, who served as both a mentor and a guiding light to many throughout Papua New Guinea.

During a gathering of family, colleagues, and friends, Mr Pomaleu emphasized the profound impact Mr Kambori had on the nation and its people.

“I want to thank the Kambori family for giving me the opportunity to speak on this occasion to a man I called big brother and mentor,” said Mr Pomaleu, addressing the Kambori family, including his son Junior Valentine and other relatives, alongside esteemed colleagues and numerous attendees.

As Chief Secretary Pomaleu reflected on this moment of deep sorrow, he encouraged all present to take solace in the extraordinary contributions of the Late Valentine Hapi Kambori.

“We gather not just to mourn but to celebrate the light that was Valentine Kambori – a light that has not dimmed with his passing but continues to burn brightly in the hearts of all who knew him,” he stated.

Mr Kambori was not merely a public servant; he was a visionary, a nation-builder, and an unwavering pillar of strength.

His leadership transcended mere titles and roles; it was defined by the lives he uplifted and the communities he inspired through his work.

Born in the humble village of Hanyak in Yangoru-Saussia, East Sepik, he was deeply rooted in the traditions and values of his people.

A proud graduate of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, Mr Kambori later earned a Master’s degree in Management from the Australian National University, laying the foundation for his dedicated service to the nation.

His remarkable ascent through the public service ranks showcased his tireless commitment to development.

As Secretary of National Planning, Mr Kambori laid the groundwork for transformative policies that have shaped the course of the nation.

His leadership extended well beyond formal roles, whether chairing the Strategic Management Group for the Incentive Fund or overseeing the establishment of Papua New Guinea’s first palliative care facility. His work reflected a deep desire to uplift the most vulnerable members of society.

Mr Pomaleu recounted his own journey with Mr Kambori, recalling their first meeting when Mr Kambori was the Chairman of the CCRI. Their paths crossed multiple times over the years, and Mr Kambori took on the role of mentor as Pomaleu navigated his own career in public service.

“He was an intellectual giant, trained as an accountant, with an extraordinary grasp of complex subjects in governance, business, and development policy,” Mr Pomaleu said.

Mr Kambori’s contributions as Chairman of the Investment Promotion Board and his work with the National Agriculture Research Institute were pivotal in fostering investment opportunities and promoting collaboration in research and development. He built important foundations for thriving institutions.

“A man of humility, grace, and integrity, he stood tall, yet his true strength lay in his quiet devotion to what was right.

“His faith in the potential of Papua New Guinea was unshakeable, always grounded in a commitment to the common good,” Mr Pomaleu said.

To Junior Valentine and the entire Kambori family, the Chief Secretary extended heartfelt gratitude for sharing their father and grandfather with the nation.

“Mr Kambori’s light will continue to shine in the countless lives he touched. His legacy will inspire generations to come,” Chief Secretary Pomaleu affirmed.

As the gathering concluded, Mr Pomaleu urged all to honor Mr Kambori’s memory by striving for the inclusive, compassionate Papua New Guinea he envisioned:

“Rest in eternal peace, Valentine Hapi Kambori. Your work on this earth is done, but your legacy will endure for a long time.”