AS the country celebrates its 50th year of Independence, East New Britain witnessed a very significant and momentous event, the unveiling of the “Somare Memorial Birth Site” monument, the birthplace of the founding father of Papua New Guinea, who led the nation into Independence.
The “Somare Memorial Birth Site” monument, is at Rapindik, situated within the perimeters of the Matupit Hotsprings, at the foot of Mt Tavurvur in the Rabaul district of East New Britain province.
The Memorial site was developed by the Provincial Government under the leadership of ENB Governor Hon Michael Marum as a token of appreciation from the people of East New Britain to honor Sir Michael Somare’s contribution to the Nation.
Governor Marum thanked the clans and local leaders from Matupit who cared for Grand Chief Somare in his
early days, stating their generosity helped shape the man who became the founding father of PNG.
Arthur Somare was the guest of Honor at the ceremony, who also unveiled the “Somare Memorial Birth Site monument”
Governor Marum acknowledged Arthur Somare and his wife and daughter for choosing to celebrate Independence with the people of ENB at the very place where his father Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Topalangat Somare was born.
The unveiling ceremony was the main highlight of the Independence activities in the province and the district apart from the famous annual Gold Spot Frangipani Float Parade and the annual commemoration of the twin Volcanic Eruption.
Governor Marum also highlighted that celebrating 50th was a great milestone and also a golden moment in the nation’s history, a time for reflection and to honour the past, to take stock of the present and to look with hope towards the future and lay a strong foundation for generations to come.
Guest of honour of the ceremony was Arthur Somare and family, Gazelle MP Jelta Wong, Kokopo MP Ereman
Tobaining Jnr, Rabaul MP Dr Allan Marat, Provincial Administrator Mr Levi Mano and the
staff of the ENBPG, elders from the tubuan society and other cultural groups, church leaders, community leaders, youths, and people of East New Britain.
Also present was Mr Douglas Eremas from Rapitokj village, the person who lowered the PNG flag in 1975 and also Mr Ekonia Puki from Watom Island, the longest serving close protection Officer to Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
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