Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has issued a national call to action for all levels of government, communities, and citizens across Papua New Guinea to actively prepare for the country’s historic 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations on September 16, 2025.

“With just four months remaining before our golden jubilee, I appeal to all provinces, districts, and local governments to begin organising meaningful celebrations in their communities,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Fifty years only comes once in our lifetime. It is a moment of reflection, pride, and unity for all Papua New Guineans.”

Prime Minister Marape emphasised that despite facing many challenges over the past five decades—social, economic, political, and developmental—Papua New Guinea has stood firm in preserving its democracy, sovereignty, and identity as a free and independent nation.

“Our country remains intact,” he said. “Through all the ups and downs, we have produced leaders from all corners of the nation—Prime Ministers, Governors-General, Opposition Leaders, Speakers, Chief Justices, Police Commissioners, Defence Force Commanders— and that reflects the strength of our national unity and diversity.”

He called on citizens across all four regions and from all ethnic and language groups to take ownership of the milestone and prepare activities that truly reflect PNG’s journey.

“This is not just a government event—it’s a national celebration for all our people,” he said. “We want the 50th anniversary to be the mother of all celebrations. Let us come together as one nation, many tribes, many tongues, but one people under one flag.”

Prime Minister Marape said a full year of commemorative activities will run from September 16, 2025, to September 15, 2026, and will include the PNG Games in Southern Highlands, community festivals, educational campaigns, inter-governmental programmes, and major infrastructure launches.

“Our 50th anniversary marks the beginning of a national reset,” the Prime Minister said. “It is a time to renew our commitment to building a better, safer, stronger country.”

He acknowledged that while law and order issues, poverty, and inequality persist, these are challenges faced even in advanced nations. He cited New York City as an example, noting that despite being a global city, it records more than four murders per day .

“No country is without problems,” he said. “What matters is our will to work together. If you have ideas, if you want change, bring those views to the ballot in 2027. If you are an entrepreneur, invest in the vast opportunities across our nation.”

On the economy, Prime Minister Marape said PNG is working to expand its economic base from under K100 billion today to over K200 billion in the coming years. This will be driven by major resource projects including gas, mining, and energy, with over K150 billion in projected investments between 2025 and 2035.

He said the Government is also focused on developing human capital and services, citing the country’s first successful kidney transplant as a major milestone.

“Yesterday, we witnessed the first successful kidney transplant on two patients. That’s a historic first for Papua New Guinea,” he said. “It shows we are making serious efforts to catch up with the world in healthcare and quality of life. We are on the move.”

Prime Minister Marape concluded with a call for unity and purpose: “As we approach 50 years, let us rise above our differences. Let us celebrate our journey together. Let us look forward with faith and work as one nation, under God, toward the next 50 years.”