As the capital city, Port Moresby has the potential to become a leading tourism hub, which the Governor for the Nation’s Capital, Governor Powes Parkop, described as the "Gateway to Papua New Guinea."
He emphasized that this city is the first stop for tourists before they explore other provinces, making it a vital part of the national tourism strategy.
Addressing attendees at the recent World Tourism Day Conference in September, Hon. Parkop discussed the importance of law and order in promoting economic growth and enhancing tourism.
He outlined his vision to position Port Moresby as the premier tourist destination, highlighting its unique cultural diversity.
Governor Parkop stated: “Port Moresby, we have a great product here. We are a city of 1,000 tribes and cultures. That’s why we initiated the Festival of 1,000 Tribes last year.”
He believes that showcasing the rich traditions, cultures, songs, and dances of PNG in one location can attract tourists.
“The tourists can see Papua New Guinea, all our traditions, culture, song, and dance in one place,” he added.
Apart from immediate action to develop and protect this tourism product, he urged stakeholders to focus on making Port Moresby a standout destination, allowing other provinces to learn from its success.
“If security and infrastructure have been hindering the tourism industry, we must concentrate on one location as the tourist destination,” he said.
To further promote Port Moresby as a showcase for the 1,000 tribes, the Governor proposed the establishment of an international airport in the northern part of PNG, potentially in Aitape- Sepik, New Ireland, Manus, or East New Britain.
“I’ve been promoting that we should have an international airport maybe in Aitape,” he noted, pointing out that historical significance as a WWII site could attract additional interest.
“We just need to clean it up and open up that northwest frontier,” he stated. “It faces the big market—China, Asia, Japan—and can facilitate more cost-effective imports to Wewak or Vanimo, distributing goods throughout the country.”
Governor Parkop believes investing in tourism infrastructure is crucial for the industry’s growth. “Let’s not let law and order stop our tourism industry. Small investment, big return—that’s the equation,” he said.
PNG is known for its rich cultural and linguistic diversity, and Governor Parkop reinforced the importance of this heritage. “PNG culture is non-negotiable,” he said.
Tourism Promotion Authority CEO Eric M. Uvovo supported the Governor’s call for collaboration and partnership to develop robust tourism offerings.
The CEO underscored the importance of partnerships with airlines, such as Air New Guinea, to improve flight availability and reliability.
"We have diverse tourism products all over Papua New Guinea that challenge its accessibility and law and order," he noted, reiterating the need for a collaborative approach to overcome these barriers.
"A vibrant tourism sector can help reduce poverty, create jobs, and empower communities, contributing directly to the national peace and security of our nation.”
Uvovo appealed to the industry to remain resilient and collaborative. "Tourism is everybody's business," he stated, urging stakeholders to continue their efforts despite the challenges ahead.
"With this partnership, we can move tourism forward. We have our challenges, but let's not give up."
