The National Capital District Commission’s (NCDC) ambitious Vision to transform Port Moresby into a safe, modern and future- ready capital city ahead of the PNG Chief’s entry, has just got the thumbs up from the Prime Minister.
The Vision, presented by NCD Governor Powes Parkop and NCDC Management at City Hall on Friday, outlines a comprehensive Programme of City Improvements designed to prepare Port Moresby for NRL 2028 while laying the foundation for long-term Growth and Transformation through to 2040.
Prime Minister James Marape who was there at the presentation, said Port Moresby must be prepared not only as the Home of the PNG Chiefs, but also as the National Stage that showcases Papua New Guinea to the world.
“Governor Parkop, we will not reinvent the wheel. We will ride with your Plan,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“This must be One Plan. It is a National Outcome we are engaging upon. It is a big, monumental National Outcome — not just for Sporting Visitors, but for ourselves here in Port Moresby.”
The Prime Minister said Sports had a unique ability to unite Papua New Guinea, and the PNG Chiefs concept was designed to become a national rallying point for all Citizens.
“The concept of the Chiefs is a concept to unite our country into one focal point,” he said.
“Sports has the greatest emotional ability to gravitate the fascination of our people into one focal point. Politics can divide, but Sports can bring our people together.”
Prime Minister Marape said Port Moresby would continue to serve as the nation’s Premier Host City for major National and International Events, including NRL Matches, Regional Conferences, International Summits, and future Sporting Events.
The NCDC Vision includes initiatives aimed at improving Public Safety and Security, modernizing Transport Systems, enhancing Tourism and Cultural experiences, upgrading key Public Infrastructure, creating more Recreational and Community Spaces, promoting the Motu Koita heritage, improving Traffic Management, strengthening Communications and City Branding, and enhancing the overall Livability of the Capital.
Among the Concepts presented were improvements to Public Transport and Mobility, development of Modern Parking Facilities, revitalization of Public Markets and Commercial Precincts, upgrades to Sporting Facilities, enhanced Policing Infrastructure, Tourism and Cultural attractions, Fan Zones, and long-term planning initiatives to ensure Port Moresby remains a competitive and attractive Regional City.
Marape said Port Moresby must continue its journey towards becoming a city that is safe, green, inclusive, connected, and planned for all.
