BSP SPONSORS 2025 HIRI MOALE FESTIVAL
By Vonu LIBITINO
BSP is proud to pledge K100,000 sponsorship for the Hiri Moale Festival 2025, an event deeply rooted in Papua New Guinea’s cultural identity, especially for the people of the Central Province and the Motu Koita people, who are the traditional landowners of Port Moresby.
This was expressed by BSP Sponsorship Coordinator Mr. Leslie Babaga, who was present to officially hand over the sponsorship to the Motu Koita Association at the City Hall Annex in Port Moresby recently.
Now in its 51st year, Mr. Babaga highlighted that the Hiri Moale Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a living testament to the rich tradition shared between the Hiri people of Port Moresby and the Gulf Province—a heritage that has shaped history for generations.
“We recognize the importance of preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. As a proud, home-grown bank, we are committed to supporting this event that celebrates our people, our traditions, and our shared history.
It is in this spirit that BSP is proud to announce a K100,000 sponsorship for the MKA Hiri Moale Festival 2025. BSP stands alongside the Motu Koitabu people to ensure that this festival continues to thrive, allowing future generations to embrace and celebrate their identity, values, and history.
The Hiri Moale Festival is a beacon of resilience, unity, and economic significance, reminding us of the strength and vision of our ancestors who navigated the seas to trade with the people of the Gulf Province.
Our support reflects our ongoing commitment to community development and cultural preservation, which are essential for a thriving society. We are honored to play a role in keeping this proud tradition alive,” Mr. Leslie Babaga said.
Manager of the Motu Koita Assembly, Mr. Mari Kila, officially received BSP’s K100,000 sponsorship, expressing his appreciation to the BSP Financial Group CEO, Management, and Staff.
Mr. Kila emphasized that a significant part of the Hiri Moale Festival is the celebration of women and their role in society, both historically and today.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, this festival reflects the MKA’s recognition of how important and valued women are in our society.
We are pleased to have BSP onboard again for this year’s festival, and for being part of this journey. We hope you and everyone else can enjoy the Hiri Moale Festival,” he said.
The Hiri Moale Festival begins on the 3rd of April and will run until the 6th of April 2025. The four-day event will include a float parade and motorcade, the judging of the Hiri Hanenamo, the Trukai Vanagi Race, cultural performances, and, of course, the crowning of the Hiri Hanenamo for 2025.
