By ORCHY REX
As Papua New Guinea prepares to mark its Golden Jubilee, the National Capital District Council of Women has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of women across the country.
NCDCW president Lucy Pomu, urged women and young girls from all walks of life to celebrate responsibly during the national festivities.
“If you want to celebrate this independence outdoors, please take precautions while moving around,” Ms Pomu said. “We, the NCD Council of Women, have been strong advocates for gender-based violence and violence against women in NCD, and safety must remain a priority.”
She extended gratitude to the founding father of the nation, the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare, who led PNG to independence in 1975, acknowledging his vision and sacrifice.
“This is one of the biggest celebrations we are about to witness, unlike past independence anniversaries,” Ms Pomu added. “We want to say thank you to our founding father and to all prime ministers who have served this country from 1975 to 2025. Their leadership has brought us this far.”
The NCDCW also recognized the contributions of foreigners who first introduced systems of governance, education, and modern development, laying the foundation for growth.
Vice president Sana Dokopa echoed similar sentiments and paid tribute to the nation’s progress over the last five decades.
“We have seen achievements in education, health, infrastructure, and economic growth,” she said. “While we acknowledge challenges remain, we must celebrate how far we’ve come as a people and as a nation.”
Council secretary Susan Solien Dobunaba highlighted the role of women in nation-building, emphasizing that respect and equality should be central to PNG’s progress.
“Women have been the backbone of this country since independence and continue to hold families, communities, and provinces together,” Ms Dobunaba said.
“In a Melanesian society like ours, respect is not always accorded where it is due. Men seem to dominate in most areas, and it’s about time women are given the chance and opportunity to speak up and let their voices be heard.”
“We say thank you to Governor Powes Parkop, the three open MPs for Moresby North-East, Moresby North-West, and Moresby South, and also the City Manager for their leadership and continued backing of women’s empowerment in the city,” she said.
“Every great man that has walked this land is backed by a supportive wife,” Madam Pomu reminded. “Respect must be mutual, and women must be accorded the dignity and recognition they deserve.”
As the Golden Jubilee draws closer, the NCD Council of Women encouraged women, young girls, and children to celebrate with pride but with vigilance.
“Our message is simple: celebrate responsibly, respect one another, and ensure safety for yourselves and your families,” MS Dokopa said. “Let’s make this 50th anniversary a true celebration of unity and prosperity.”