THE Amazing Port Moresby Independence Unity Parade started at 5:00am with thousands of city residents gathering at Murray Barracks to kick off the 51st Independence Anniversary Celebrations.
A wave of people wearing the PNG colours of red, black and gold walked all the way to Ela Beach.
Led by the Governor of the National Capital District, Hon. Powes Parkop, there was a sea of people as far as the eyes could see.
Walking alongside the Hon. Governor and city residents were members from the corporat sector, government agencies and UN agencies, together with the Police Constabulary contingent, members of the PNG Defence Force and foreign delegates.
A women’s marching band led sections of the parade and NCD school students also joined the Unity Parade adding to the massive turnout.
The Parade made its way along the Freeway and past Sir Hubert Murray Stadium before reaching its grand culmination at Ela Beach, the venue of the Amazing Port Moresby Arts and Music Festival, where over 100 SME stalls created a festive market atmosphere.
At Ela Beach there were cultural performances by the Manus Cultural Group and the MotuKoitabu Cultural Group, along with performances by members of the Active City Development Program and Wan Squad.
The arrival at Ela Beach also marked the start of the Independence festivities. Other major Independence events organised by the NCDC this week include the Festival of a Thousand Tribes at Sir John Guise Stadium and the One City, One People, One Country Festival — two days of shows and performances at Unagi Oval from September 15 to 16. Celebrations will also be held simultaneously at the University of Papua New Guinea, Pacific Adventist University and Erima.
At the end of the Unity Parade, the City Manager and the Governor addressed the participants.
The Governor appreciated and acknowledged the city residents for waking up so early and turning up in record numbers for the Parade. He also acknowledged all the organisations and delegates who walked with him.
As part of his Unity Parade address, the Governor said: “Today’s Unity Parade shows who we are as a city — inclusive, liveable, united and respectful of one another. Fifty years ago we began our journey as a nation and this year marks a reset for our city, a moment to recommit ourselves to the next 50 years. The unity we have witnessed today is a testament to everything the Commission and I have worked to build for Port Moresby.
I thank every resident, every organisation and every school who came out this morning to walk with us.”
The residents and visitors are invited to visit these events at various locations throughout this week. Hosted by Governor Parkop, these events are free for visitors with ample security.