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'We Are An Ancient People': Papua New Guinea Celebrates 50 Years Of Nationhood
Scott Waide, RNZ Pacific PNG correspondent
Thousands of people gathered in Papua New Guinea's capital, Port Moresby, as early as 5:00am local time Tuesday to welcome the dawn of Independence Day.
The air was filled with patriotic spirit as students across the country sang the national anthem in their own languages, symbolising PNG's rich cultural diversity.
At Independence Hill in Waigani, Prime Minister James Marape delivered a keynote address before a packed crowd.
He was joined by dignitaries from various countries including the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, who represented King Charles III and the British royal family.
Marape took a look back over the nation's 60,000 years history, acknowledging ancient migrations that brought diverse groups of people to the Island of Niugini.
"We are an ancient people. Kuk in the Western Highlands is the oldest agriculture site in the world. The Lapita Pottery found in our islands and all over the Pacific is testament to our ancient heritiage.
"For modern Papua New Guinea, thank the missionaries… the Australians, the Americans, Fijians, Tongans, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands…"
The months leading up to today have been nothing short of a nationwide festival. From cultural shows to sporting events and concerts. Papua New Guineans have been in high spirits, building momentum for this milestone.
On September 15, the country welcomed the arrival of a new aircraft for Air Niugini's fleet - christened the People's Balus.
Pilots Beverly Paki and Timothy Tico Narara flew the jet into Jackson's International Airport, where thousands turned up to witness the historic landing.
In Port Moresby, crowds have filled every major location, from Independence Hill to Murray Barracks, where the PNG Defence Force staged its own celebrations. The city is hosting dignitaries and leaders from across the Pacific and beyond, who have traveled to witness PNG's 50th anniversary of nationhood.
Along the roadside and across the city, PNG flags wave proudly, draped over vehicles as bonnet covers, painted on faces, and worn as part of Independence-themed fashion. The red, black, and gold colors of the flag dominate the streets, turning Port Moresby into a sea of national pride.
But the spirit of celebration extends far beyond the capital. From provincial headquarters to the most remote villages, Papua New Guineans have come together to mark Independence Day in their own ways.
Social media platforms are flooded with photos and videos showcasing dances, parades, and community gatherings, offering just a glimpse of the nationwide festivities.
Fifty years since independence, today's celebrations are being described as the biggest in the nation's history - one massive, joyous party stretching across the country and uniting its people in pride and hope for the future.
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