51st INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS CONTINUE

BY RAYLEEN WANJIMAN

UNAGI Oval has come alive in Port Moresby today as celebrations for Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence Anniversary continue.

People from across the city have gathered at the oval to celebrate the nation’s independence, with traditional dances and cultural performances from different parts of Papua New Guinea taking centre stage.

The performances are showcasing the country’s rich cultural diversity, with groups dressed in traditional attire and presenting customs, dances and traditions that reflect the unique identity of their provinces and communities.

The celebrations will continue throughout the afternoon and into the evening, with a range of music, cultural performances and entertainment lined up.

From 12 midday, DJ Shelly will lead a sing-along and dance-along session, followed by cultural performances from the Jiwaka, Koiari, Manus and Melaiepe Cultural Groups.

More cultural performances will continue at after lunch featuring the Milne Bay Misima Cultural Group, before DJ Shelly returns for another sing-along and dance-along session at.

The afternoon will then feature music showcases from Junior Vigi , Mikes Toto atand Tonton Malele.

The official program is scheduled to close from at 5pm with closing remarks.

Families can also enjoy children’s activities, SME booths a Koiari tree house, photo booth, face-painting stations, and FSVU, RCPNG and AFP displays throughout the day.