GOGODALA CANOE RACE OPENED INDEPENDENCE FESTIVITIES IN BALIMO

By Kenny ROMANUS

THE famous Gogodala Canoe Race officially launched the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Balimo, filling the district with vibrant culture, unity, and excitement.

Residents awoke to the sound of traditional war cries as racers gathered at the District Office waterfront, where the canoes were assembled. From there, the fleet paddled out through Kabili Lagoon to Kimama Village, where the race commenced, before returning to finish at the District Administration waterfront in Balimo town.

A total of 22 canoes competed, 19 in the A-grade division and 3 in the B-grade. Each canoe, adorned with bright colours and traditional clan emblems, proudly displayed the identity and heritage of its people. Crew numbers varied by size, with the three longest A-grade canoes carrying up to 70 paddlers each.

Every ward from the Aramia Gogodala LLG was represented, while thousands of spectators journeyed from surrounding villages to witness the grand spectacle.

The last canoe festival was staged in 2020 during the late Roy Biyama’s term as MP, with Prime Minister James Marape officiating.