The 3rd Jimi Marita Festival held on January 16 at Karap Primary School in Middle Jimi, Jiwaka Province, was a resounding success, celebrating the cultural heritage of the region and the astonishing health benefits of the traditional superfood Pandanus Conoideus, locally known as Marita.
Supported by a generous K10,000 sponsorship from the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), the event brought together local communities, cultural advocates, and agricultural experts to shine a spotlight on Marita’s nutritional and cultural significance.
TPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo praised the festival’s organizing team for their efforts in preserving Jimi’s cultural heritage while promoting agri-tourism.
“The success of this festival is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the organizing committee. TPA is proud to support initiatives that celebrate our unique traditions and promote economic opportunities for our communities,” said Mr. Uvovo.
The festival highlighted research conducted by the National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI), where research scientist Jonah Anton emphasized the superfood’s nutritional value.
“While Marita is not currently a priority crop for NARI, we have identified 16 species in Jimi, with the total across the province exceeding 20. It’s a vital food that is now gaining the recognition it deserves,” said Mr. Anton.
“Marita is a powerhouse of nutrients with incredible health benefits. It contains three key chemicals that make it a valuable food source: Carotene for improving eye health; Tocopherol, a potent antioxidant; and Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health and brain function. Preserving and promoting Marita is essential for both our culture and health,” he added.
The event also featured local entrepreneurs John and Lorin Kisan, who produce Marita-based products such as oil, soup, and pig feed. Their efforts have provided affordable and sustainable alternatives for local communities, addressing the rising costs of imported goods.
Marita Festival Chairman, Gabbi Apainga, expressed his gratitude for TPA’s continued support.
“We are deeply thankful to TPA for their sponsorship, which ensures the festival’s success and helps preserve our cultural identity,” he said.
Jiwaka Provincial Administrator Rick Kogan echoed this sentiment, commending the organizing team and TPA for their collaboration in making the event a success.
MP Goi Commends Festival
The Member for Jimi District and Minister of Mining, Hon. Wake Goi, extended his congratulations and appreciation to the organizers, the Provincial Administration, TPA, and the people of Jimi for their collective efforts in delivering a successful event.
“I commend the Jiwaka Provincial Tourism team, the event organizers, and the people of Jimi for coming together to make this festival a resounding success. This festival not only preserves our cultural identity but also highlights the immense nutritional value of Marita, an essential food for our people,” said Hon. Goi.
Hon. Goi also applauded the efforts of the local SMEs and producers who are driving innovation with Marita-based products. He likewise commended the work of the Kisan couple, whose efforts have provided affordable options for the community amid the high cost of imported goods.
“The entrepreneurial spirit of our people is inspiring. Initiatives like these contribute not only to local economic development but also to food security in the region,” said Hon. Goi.
While Hon. Goi could not attend the festival due to his commitments as the Minister for Mining—attending the launch of the Western Province Development Plan 2023-2027 and the four District Development Plans—he reaffirmed his strong support for the event.
“The Marita Festival is a vital platform to promote our agritourism potential and sustain the cultural legacy of Jimi. I look forward to the continuation of this festival in the coming years, as it grows to become a hallmark event for the district and the province,” he stated.
Hon. Goi also highlighted the importance of partnerships, such as the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between TPA and the Jimi District Development Authority last year.
“This partnership ensures the growth and continuity of this festival. I am confident that together, we will continue to preserve and promote our unique traditions for future generations,” he said.
The festival’s ribbon-cutting ceremony symbolized the growing partnership between TPA and the Jimi District Development Authority, ensuring the festival’s continuity and growth in the years ahead.
