Today, Tuesday 29 July 2025, marks exactly 50 days before Papua New Guinea proudly celebrates its 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, 2025.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, in a statement released this morning, has called on all Papua New Guineans to embrace this significant countdown as a time of national reflection, renewed purpose, and thanksgiving to God, who has guided the country through five decades of independence.
“Fifty years ago, our founding fathers laid the foundation of this sovereign nation with a bold vision — that Papua New Guinea, though culturally diverse, would stand united, independent, and blessed. As we mark 50 days to our Golden Jubilee, I encourage every Papua New Guinean — young and old — to take this time to look back, give thanks, and look forward with faith and courage,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister noted that reaching 50 years of independence is a milestone of Biblical significance. Drawing inspiration from scripture, he referenced Leviticus 25:10, which speaks of the Year of Jubilee as a time of liberty, restoration, and return.
“The Bible speaks of the 50th year as a Jubilee — a sacred time of freedom, forgiveness, and restoration. I believe this is not just a political or historical moment, but a spiritual one for our people and our nation. God has been gracious to Papua New Guinea, and now more than ever, we must honour Him for bringing us this far,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the countdown to September 16 should be embraced by all sectors of society — from schools and Churches to the business community and civil society — as a time to celebrate, reconcile, and rededicate ourselves to building a better and more inclusive PNG.
“Let us use these next 50 days not just for celebration, but also for reflection. What have we done with the freedom and potential given to us? How far have we come? Where do we go from here? As your Prime Minister, I commit to ensuring the next 50 years are not just about resources and revenue, but about people, purpose and God-given potential,” he added.
A Legacy of Progress and Resilience
Over the last five decades, Papua New Guinea has faced its share of challenges — from economic fluctuations and law and order issues, to global pandemics and natural disasters. Yet, the Prime Minister stressed that the resilience and spirit of the people have been the country’s greatest asset.
“Despite all odds, we are still standing — stronger, wiser, and more united than ever. This 50th Independence Anniversary is not just a mark of age, but a testimony of God’s sustaining grace and our people’s perseverance,” Marape said.
As part of the 50th Independence Golden Jubilee, the Government has rolled out a series of nationwide events, including cultural festivals, youth and Church-led celebrations, sports events, and the “50 Years of Building PNG Communities” initiative launched yesterday during the 2025 Resources Week. These programs aim to highlight how the resource sector, local leadership, faith-based organisations, and the people themselves have contributed to shaping the nation.
“From the remotest village to the highest Office of Government, every Papua New Guinean has played a role in this journey. The story of PNG is not just one of policies or politics — it is a story of faith, family, community, and resilience,” Marape said.
Looking Ahead to a God-Fearing and Prosperous Nation
In his remarks, Prime Minister Marape reiterated his Government’s commitment to building a stronger, self- reliant, and God-fearing nation. He acknowledged that while much has been achieved, there is still work to do in areas such as education, health, infrastructure, law and order, and wealth creation.
“We will enter the next 50 years with greater intent — to take back our economy, empower our people, and honour God in how we govern and lead. As we count down these 50 days to September 16, let us commit ourselves — as individuals, families, churches, and communities — to be part of this new chapter,” he said. “Let this Jubilee be the beginning of a revival — not just politically or economically, but spiritually and morally.”
As the sun rises on this historic countdown, Prime Minister Marape called on all citizens to begin preparations, participate actively in the nationwide commemorations, and above all, give thanks for the journey that has brought Papua New Guinea to this sacred 50-year milestone.
“What is it that you must do for your God, your country and your fellow citizens? This is a question we all should ask now leading up to our 50th Independence and should govern our souls as we work for the country and each other going forward. We are our brother’s keeper. Think PNG first – your region, your province, your district, your tribe, your family – should be last; our God and country must come first always.”