The beats of the Kundu drum, accompanied by songs and dances, filled the air in Kundiawa after a decade-long pause, as the Kundiawa Cultural Show roared back to life. This vibrant event, which serves as a lead-up to the country’s Independence Day celebration on September 16th, drew people from all corners of Simbu and neighboring provinces. They gathered at Dickson’s Oval, adorned in their traditional finery, forming numerous groups to partake in the festivities, creating a captivating spectacle that attracted tourists from far and wide from 11th to 12th September.
Hon. Muguwa Dilu, Member for Kundiawa Gembogl and Vice Minister assisting the Prime Minister on constitutional matters, extended a warm welcome and expressed gratitude to all invited guests, tourists, showgoers, participants, and show sponsors at the 2023 Kundiawa Cultural Show.
“Now that this event has occurred, we see tourists and people flocking to Kundiawa. It will promote our culture and, at the same time, support our local SMEs,” he remarked.
“The Governor and I worked together to organize this show, providing an opportunity for parents to pass down and teach their children about our culture and the importance of preserving it,” Mr. Dilu added.
NCD Governor Powes Parkop, the guest of honor, officially launched the 2023 Kundiawa Cultural Show in the absence of Australia’s High Commissioner, HE Jonathan Philp.
“The potential is in our eyes, the culture of our people, the traditions, the stories behind them, the dance, traditional dressing, and our customs,” Mr. Powes Parkop emphasized.
He encouraged the people of Simbu not to look elsewhere but to cherish and make the most of their cultural treasures.
Among the esteemed guests present were Minister for Commerce and Industry Hon. Henry John Amuli, the Managing Director of Tourism Promotion Authority Eric Uvovo, and the Deputy Managing Director of Conservation and Environment Protection Authority, Michael Bongro. Their presence underscored the significance of the Kundiawa Cultural Show in preserving Simbu’s cultural heritage and promoting tourism.
The revival of the Kundiawa Cultural Show marks a momentous occasion, rekindling the spirit of tradition and unity among the people of Simbu and beyond. As the beats of the Kundu drum resonate and the colorful dances continue, it is evident that this cultural celebration will leave an permanent mark on the hearts and minds of all who attend, reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation and province’s pride.
