As Papua New Guinea approaches 2025, the year marking 50 years of independence, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has issued a heartfelt message to the nation, urging every citizen to unite and work together for the betterment of the country.
“2025 is a monumental year for our country, not just because we are celebrating our Golden Jubilee, but because it offers us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come and to chart a clear path forward,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“While the government has the biggest role to play, I want to remind every citizen, from the youngest child to the oldest elder, that we all have a part to contribute to our nation’s progress.”
Acknowledging the challenges Papua New Guinea faces, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in the country’s resilience and unity. “Our country’s challenges remain significant, but we can overcome them if we work together. Let us set aside our differences, respect each other, and coexist peacefully. By God’s grace, we have maintained our unity so far, and I believe we can continue to rise above any challenge if we remain united.”
Prime Minister Marape highlighted the importance of 2025 not just as a year of celebration, but as a time for national renewal and forward planning. “We will engage our entire nation—government agencies, schools, institutions, and communities—to participate in this significant moment. Together, we will revisit the last 50 years, evaluate the first 15 years of Vision 2050, and set concrete milestones for the next 20 years as we strive for industrialisation and sustainable growth.”
The Prime Minister emphasised the need for action and cooperation, calling on citizens to work alongside leaders at all levels. “I appeal to every Papua New Guinean: cooperate with your members, your governors, and your leaders. Criticise constructively, but always with solutions. Let’s leave politics aside and focus on taking our country forward. The future of Papua New Guinea depends on our collective effort.”
As part of the Jubilee celebrations, Prime Minister Marape shared plans to host significant events that will attract leaders from across the Pacific and beyond. “We will welcome leaders from Pacific Island nations, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, China, Rwanda, and other parts of the world to join us in celebrating this historic milestone. It will be a moment of pride for Papua New Guinea as we showcase our strength, unity, and determination to progress.”
The Prime Minister concluded with a powerful appeal to citizens to seize this historic moment. “This is our generation’s time to live through the 50th anniversary of our nation’s independence. Let’s not waste this moment or take it for granted. Let’s contribute where we can so that every child in Papua New Guinea can find prosperity in this country. Let’s ensure that no place is left behind and that we all grow together into a brighter future beyond our 50th anniversary.”