Wau Waria dazzles in color, gold medals and tributes to PNG’s 50th Independence
The people of Wau Waria District gathered in a sea of red, black and gold to mark Papua New Guinea’s Independence, turning the occasion into a vibrant spectacle of unity, remembrance and pride.
The celebration began with a solemn moment of silence in honor of the late Morobe Governor, Luther Wenge, whose sudden passing cast a shadow of sorrow across the province, especially on the eve of the country’s 50th Independence Golden Jubilee.
With the respect paid, the field quickly came alive as crowds poured in from both Wau and the Waria sides of the district, eager to celebrate, witness and be part of an unforgettable program organized by the district’s very own Independence Committee.
From a disciplined parade led by the PNG Defense Force soldiers and Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary police officers, along with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, to a live mock battle that drew cheers from the crowd, the festivities blended tradition with true patriotism.
Sponsored by the Harmony Gold mine, balloons in the country’s colors were released into the sky, while live music filled the air in between the performances, keeping spirit high all throughout the day.
Local MP Marsh Narewec thanked everyone who has contributed to support the new district, and gave updates on where the development projects are up to now. He urged his people to embrace positive living as a way forward for themselves as a person and for their families, the young district and for the country as a whole.
“We are a new district, but let’s step and move forward positively. I am pleased to announce to you all that two days ago on Sunday, the 14th of September, our pilot track for the Morobe-Northern Highway has successfully reached Garaina station,” he said.
“I also urge you all, especially the public servants to put your differences aside and commit to bringing the much needed services to our people’s doorsteps, to improve the livelihoods of our as the way forward for the next 50 years."
One of the most heartfelt moments of the day-long celebration came, when the district recognized and honored its longest-serving members from both the government and the private sector members.
Some were as old as the nation itself, while others had served even longer. Each of them were presented with a gold medal and certificate of honor, for their service standing as a living testament to resilience and dedication.
The day captured both the spirit of remembrance and the promise of progress for Wau Waria as a new district and Papua New Guinea and ended peacefully.