Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the reopening of the Kapakapa (Ghost Mountain) Trail in Central Province, describing it as a major step towards promoting wartime heritage tourism, rural development, and international friendship between Papua New Guinea, Australia, and the United States.
The reopening expedition—featuring 10 American and Australian trekkers, including acclaimed authors of The Ghost Mountain Boys and In Search of the Flying Dutchman— departed this week for Dorobisoro village in Rigo District. The trekkers, supported by Getaway Trekking and PNG Tribal Foundation, will retrace the legendary World War II route taken by the 33rd American Infantry Division as they advanced through the Owen Stanley Ranges in 1942.
Prime Minister Marape congratulated the Central Provincial Government, under Governor Rufina Peter, and Rigo MP Hon. Sir Ano Pala for reviving the trail in partnership with the PNG Tribal Foundation, noting that such initiatives highlight Papua New Guinea’s enduring place in world history.
“The reopening of the Kapakapa Trail is more than a tourism project—it is a bridge between nations and generations,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“It honours the shared sacrifices of our people and Allied forces during World War II, while bringing new life to remote communities through tourism, education, and service.”
The Prime Minister said the 48-kilometre trek will not only rekindle international interest in PNG’s wartime heritage but also bring practical benefits such as delivery of medical and educational supplies to rural communities along the route.
“I commend all those who are working to transform this once-forgotten wartime trail into a living pathway of remembrance and opportunity,” he added.
“As Papua New Guinea celebrates its 50th year of independence, such projects reflect our nation’s resilience, unity, and growing confidence to share our stories with the world.”
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting heritage tourism, rural airstrips, and trekking infrastructure as part of the Connect PNG and Tourism Promotion Authority programmes, ensuring that remote communities like those in Rigo benefit directly from the nation’s economic growth.
He also extended his appreciation to the international team of trekkers and filmmakers for choosing to tell Papua New Guinea’s story of courage and humanity through this journey.
“Every step along the Ghost Mountain Trail tells a story of bravery—of Papua New Guineans who carried supplies, guided soldiers, and gave hope through hardship.
“Reopening this trail allows us to honour them properly and invite the world to walk where heroes once walked.”