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More than 600 tourists explored Port Moresby on Monday 25 November after disembarking the MS Regatta, a cruise ship with a capacity of 824 passengers and 326 crew members. Among the tourists who disembarked to explore the capital’s fascinating sites was Australian traveller Michele Morrison, who shares a special connection with Papua New Guinea.
Michele, originally born in Lae, Papua New Guinea, was overwhelmed with emotion as she returned to the country, she still calls her “first home.” “Coming back to Papua New Guinea feels like reconnecting with my roots. This place has such a unique charm that’s unlike anywhere else in the world. From the vibrant culture to the breathtaking landscapes, PNG holds a special place in my heart,” said Morrison.
She joined other tourists in visiting Port Moresby’s iconic locations, including the National Museum, the Parliament House, Varirata National Park and Port Moresby Nature Park.
Michele highlighted her unique memories of Papua New Guinea.
“It’s incredible to see how much has changed yet stayed the same. The people are still as warm and welcoming as I remember.”
For Michele, her return to PNG aboard the MS Regatta was more than just a trip; it was a journey down memory lane. “I’ve always admired how Papua New Guinea balances its traditional heritage with modern development. This visit has reignited my passion for this incredible country, and I can’t wait to share my experiences with my family and friends back in Australia,” said Morrison.
The MS Regatta, built as part of the R-class cruise ships for Renaissance Cruises, is now owned and operated by Oceania Cruises. Known for its luxurious amenities and exceptional service, the vessel is part of a growing trend in PNG’s thriving cruise ship tourism sector.
TPA has highlighted cruise ship tourism as a significant contributor to the nation’s growing visitor numbers.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo emphasized PNG’s potential to attract even more visitors.
“The arrival of the MS Regatta and similar vessels shows Papua New Guinea’s growing reputation in the global cruise industry. With over 30,000 cruise tourists arriving last year, we are confident in our ability to offer unique and authentic experiences that captivate travellers. From cultural festivals to pristine natural beauty, PNG has something for everyone,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also acknowledged the efforts of the local tourism industry in ensuring a seamless experience for visitors, noting the importance of partnerships between the government and private sector in enhancing the country’s tourism products and services.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) strengthened its partnership with East New Britain Province (ENB) by hosting several meetings in Rabaul and Kokopo with relevant authorities and tourism stakeholders from Thursday 14 to Tuesday 18 November, 2024.
The meetings were aimed to address the rising safety and security concerns for cruise tourists visiting Rabaul.
TPA has shared empathy in understanding the current challenges that are being faced in ENB and has consulted with the Provincial Government to identify possible solutions to consider for the protection and sustainability of Cruise Tourism in the province.
The meetings strengthened the Provincial Government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all international visitors, particularly as the country seeks to promote its reputation as a premier cruise destination in the Pacific.
The meetings held in Rabaul and Kokopo, brought together key stakeholders, including provincial government representatives, mayors and ward councillors, local community leaders, and youth representatives and tourism operators.
Strategies were discussed on how TPA can work in partnership with the province to mitigate risks and create a safer environment for tourists, with a focus on practical measures such as increasing security presence and youth volunteer engagements at the port, popular tourism product sites, community engagement, to improve the coordination of Cruise Tourist Tours within the province going forward.
Cruise tourism is a growing segment of Papua New Guinea’s economy bringing in more than 30, 000 tourists per annum, and with Rabaul being one of the top cruise destinations for its cultural/historical richness and natural beauty, it is essential for PNG to prioritise ensuring that the Cruise Industry is supported well through adequate funding and resources.
Governor of ENB, Hon. Michael Marum expressed his optimism and commitment towards strengthening collaboration between the provincial government and PNGTPA to assist with strengthening community policing in the province.
The TPA and ENB authorities have agreed to establish effective communication to coordinate a memorable experience for Cruise Tourists going into 2025 starting with the arrival of Carnival Luminosa into Rabaul on the 30th of November this year carrying 2,260 passengers.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo is fully committed to restoring the country’s destination image to our global partners in the cruise tourism industry following the recent attack on cruise tourists in Rabaul.
“Tourism is not just about showcasing our country’s beauty; it’s about ensuring our visitors feel safe and welcomed. This collaboration is a step towards building trust and confidence in Papua New Guinea as a safe and desirable Cruise Tourist Destination,” said Uvovo.
TPA remains confident in the capacity and potential of the country to grow as a cruise destination and this allows the opportunity for the government and stakeholders to review, re-strategize and build back better to improve the quality of tourist experiences for the benefit of the visitors and local citizens.
“In spite of the setbacks presented COVID, law and order among other constraints, Papua New Guinea will continue to persevere amidst these challenges to mobilise resources together with our stakeholders to grow the local cruise tourism industry and this marks a significant moment in our tourism development journey.
Ensuring the safety and satisfaction of visitors will not only enhance the country’s global reputation but also create long-term economic benefits for our people, and we look forward to working with other provinces to ensure that PNG’s image as a tourist destination is protected,” said Uvovo.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) strongly advises all visitors to liaise directly with its office to connect with reputable tour operators prior to travelling to Papua New Guinea following recent concerns about the safety of tourists traveling to Papua New Guinea, particularly regarding unverified tour operators.
In light of the recent incident in the Gulf, where a tourist was involved in a serious accident, we want to remind everyone of the importance of booking tours only with certified operators. Your well-being is our top priority, and we strongly urge you to prioritize reputable providers who can offer a secure, safe and enjoyable experience.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of visitors’ satisfaction in Papua New Guinea.
“Papua New Guinea is a beautiful and culturally diverse destination, and the safety and satisfaction of our visitors are our top priorities. We are deeply committed to ensuring that every tourist experiences the best our country has to offer in a secure and well-managed environment,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo emphasized the importance of working with registered tour operators who meet TPA’s high standards.
“By coordinating with TPA, travellers can rest assured they are engaging with operators who are insured, compliant with safety regulations, and well-versed in delivering authentic and responsible tourism experiences,” said Uvovo.
He highlighted TPA’s role in vetting and maintaining a database of approved tour operators. Such operators come under the following associations that PNGTPA recognises fully:
“There are unverified operators who do not meet the required standards, and tourists are urged to avoid such services to ensure their safety. PNGTPA remains available and fully committed to assisting anyone planning their trip to Papua New Guinea. If any operator is not a member of the above association, we urge you to be a registered member.
We encourage all tourists to connect with us directly for accurate information and trustworthy connections. TPA exists to make your journey to Papua New Guinea not only memorable but also safe,” said Uvovo.
As part of its ongoing efforts to promote tourism in the country, TPA is enhancing collaborations with local communities, tourism operators, and government agencies to maintain high safety and service standards for all tourists visiting PNG for work and leisure.
Tourists and potential visitors are urged to contact TPA for assistance prior to visiting Papua New Guinea on:
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Manus Provincial Government (MPG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday 6 December in Manus to revitalize tourism and to preserve cultural heritage in the province.
This partnership sets the stage for collaborative efforts in sustainable tourism development, cultural preservation, and the promotion of contemporary arts in Manus Province. It aligns with TPA’s mandate under the Tourism Promotion Authority Act and the Manus Provincial Government’s commitment to promoting tourism as a key driver of local economic growth.Under the MOU, both parties will focus on several key initiatives, including:
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the MOU between the two parties.
“This MOU signifies a new era of collaboration, aimed at enhancing Manus’ potential as a unique tourism destination while protecting its rich cultural and natural heritage,” said Uvovo.
Manus Provincial Administrator, Mr Mame Kasalau, MBE, emphasized Manus Province’s readiness to embrace this partnership.
“Tourism offers immense opportunities for our people. Together with TPA, we will build a sustainable framework to showcase the best of Manus to the world,” he said.
The MOU also highlights the importance of community involvement, sustainable practices, and addressing cross-cutting issues such as gender equality and climate adaptation.
This partnership is expected to deliver the best benefits for the people of Manus by creating employment, supporting cultural initiatives, and establishing Manus Province as a premier tourism destination in Papua New Guinea.
Photo Caption: (Left to Right) Manus Provincial Administrator, Mame Kasalau, MBE, Acting CEO & the Executive Manager Partnership & Provincial Development for TPA, Kennewton Kennedy and the Executive Officer to the CEO of TPA, Fred Pennington during the signing of the MOU between TPA and the Manus Provincial Government on Friday 6 December in Manus.
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The Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority (ICSA) today signed a milestone Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) on mutual co-operation and data sharing that will enable promotion of the tourism sector and immigration services.
The signing formally establishes a genuine partnership between the two agencies to ensure their mandates are delivered; one is responsible for facilitating genuine movements of people and the other is responsible for promoting tourism activities that directly benefits the local economy.
Acting Chief Migration Officer Mr. Wellington Navasivu says the two agencies have realized the importance of working together for the fact that they have similar functions especially when dealing with the tourists. Having an MOU is a way forward and now that it has been signed, implementation will take effect immediately.
Unlike working in isolation in the past years and faced with a lot of challenges, ICSA and TPA will now work together where necessary to ensure proper facilitation of the tourist entering and exiting PNG.
As an implementing agency, ICSA has implemented government’s decision to remove the visa fees giving visa-on-arrival for all the tourists entering PNG. As a result, there is increase in the number of tourist visiting PNG every year and that directly supports the economy through tourism sector.
Mr Navasivu has praised his TPA counterpart Mr Eric Mossman Uvovo for his leadership and has extended gratitude to all staff members from both agencies who have worked tirelessly to complete this MOU.
CEO of TPA, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the partnership.
“This MOU supports our goal at TPA to position Papua New Guinea as a premier global tourist destination. By aligning our efforts with ICSA, we can provide a seamless travel experience for international visitors, strengthening our shared commitment in making Papua New Guinea an attractive tourist and investment destination. The industry stands to benefit immensely from this collaboration,” said Uvovo.
Photo Caption: The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo and the PNG Immigration & Citizenship Services’ (ICSA) Acting Chief Migration Officer, Wellington Navasivu during the formal signing of the MOU between TPA and ICSA in Port Moresby recently.
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More than 60 local entrepreneurs from the Naewab District of Morobe Province have graduated from a two-week business training on Friday 18 October 2024 to empower them with skills and knowledge to grow their tourism business in the district.
The entrepreneurs completed their training program under the “Start Your Own Business” (SYB) initiative.
The training was facilitated by the Small & Medium Enterprise Corporation (SMEC) in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), as part of an effort to boost local tourism businesses across the country.
The participants are entrepreneurs from the Local Level Governments (LLGs) of Labuta, Nabak, and Wain Erap. They were awarded certificates for their dedication to enhancing their entrepreneurial skills.
The training aimed to build both tourism-related knowledge and practical business skills, laying the foundation for future tourism ventures that will support economic growth and cultural preservation in Naewab.
The key objective of the SYB program is to equip potential and existing tourism business owners with essential skills and knowledge. The curriculum covered business planning, record-keeping, basic accounting, marketing, and product management, all aimed at strengthening sustainable tourism development in the region.
The training aligns with the TPA’s Tourism Sector Development Plan (TSDP) 2022-2026, which emphasizes the growth of tourism-related Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Papua New Guinea. TPA has set a target of reaching 1,000 tourism MSMEs by 2026 through annual training sessions, aiming to expand the SME sector to 500,000 by 2030.
The training is expected to lead to the creation of new, sustainable tourism businesses, with many participants already showcasing ideas that could become successful ventures. To ensure the longevity and success of these businesses, TPA will continue to support participants by providing grants and guiding them through its newly established business incubation centre.
Additional management training, including specialized skills in marketing and product development, will also be offered to further assist these new business owners in navigating the complexities of running a tourism enterprise.
Beyond business development, the program is also committed to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Naewab District. Tourism ventures born from this initiative will not only contribute to the local economy but also help sustain traditional practices, arts, and crafts that are integral to the district’s cultural identity.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo commended the participants and highlighted the importance of the participants to explore business ideas that utilize realistic resources available in their local communities.
“The focus of this training is not just on theoretical knowledge but on empowering participants with practical skills they can apply immediately. We want to see these entrepreneurs create sustainable tourism businesses that will contribute to the economic development of their communities.
By aligning these efforts with our Tourism Sector Development Plan, we are ensuring that this initiative directly supports our national goals. We plan to conduct four training sessions every year to give more entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed in the tourism industry,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also added that TPA plans to offer follow-up training to further enhance the participant’s skills.
“There will be future trainings conducted under the “Improve Your Business” (IYB) module, which will help existing businesses refine specific skills and further their development. Through these ongoing efforts, TPA and SMEC are both dedicated to promoting a strong and sustainable tourism industry that will benefit both entrepreneurs and their communities for years to come,” said Uvovo.
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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) and the Nawaeb District Development Authority (NDDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday 18 October aimed to promote sustainable tourism development in the Nawaeb District, Morobe Province.
The MOU outlines a framework for collaboration, financial support, capacity building, and the strengthening of local tourism institutions in the district.
The MOU establishes a structured partnership between PNGTPA and NDDA, focusing on tourism development at the district level. It will provide a clear division of roles and responsibilities, while promoting sustainable practices in line with national policies such as Vision 2050, the Development Strategic Plan (DSP) 2010-2030, and the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP).
The MOU is also aligned with the NEC Decision No. 94/2010, which emphasizes the need to integrate provincial and national tourism initiatives. This collaboration will ensure that Nawaeb District’s tourism plans are not only localized but also contribute to national tourism goals.
The MOU highlights the importance of protecting the cultural heritage of Nawaeb. This includes supporting local festivals, promoting arts and crafts, and creating cultural exchanges for local artists. In addition, the agreement aims to develop tourism products that are environmentally sustainable, promoting conservation efforts and helping communities adapt to climate change.
Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, speaking during the official signing of the MOU in Naewab District, reminded the people of their district’s tourism potential.
“The district is blessed with unique cultural and natural assets. This partnership with PNGTPA will allow us to promote these treasures to the world while ensuring that our people benefit from the economic opportunities tourism brings. We are particularly excited about the capacity-building initiatives that will empower the communities,” said Kennedy.
The MOU also outlines a comprehensive business framework, addressing key areas such as infrastructure development, marketing, and product innovation. The focus on developing tourism infrastructure is expected to drive economic growth in the district by creating jobs and supporting local industries such as agriculture, transport, and hospitality.
To ensure inclusivity, the agreement emphasizes policies that promote gender equality and equal opportunities, particularly for vulnerable groups. The district will also work on developing a self-sustaining tourism bureau, ensuring that tourism initiatives can continue to thrive independently.
Under the terms of the MOU, PNGTPA and NDDA will focus on protecting Nawaeb’s cultural identity through joint programs and information sharing. There will also be a strong emphasis on supporting performing arts, exhibitions, and festivals, which are key to attracting visitors and preserving the district’s unique cultural heritage.
The MOU will be reviewed every five years to assess its progress against the District Development Plan and the Tourism Sector Development Plan (TSDP) 2022-2026. Both PNGTPA and NDDA will produce annual reports, presenting milestones and financial audits to ensure accountability and transparency.
Performance metrics will include the number of tourism projects initiated, the level of local business participation, and the overall impact on the district’s economy. A Joint Milestones Matrix (JMM) will be used to track progress, and third-party participation will be encouraged if aligned with the objectives of the MOU.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the MOU between TPA and Nawaeb District.
“Tourism is a key driver for local economies, and through this MOU, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable tourism industry in Nawaeb. Our commitment is to work hand-in-hand with the district to unlock its full potential, while ensuring the protection of its rich cultural heritage.
By investing in tourism, we are not only creating economic opportunities but also protecting and promoting our district’s culture and environment for future generations,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also added that the MOU with PNGTPA and NDDA, they are confident that Nawaeb District will soon become a key player in Papua New Guinea’s tourism landscape. The partnership aims to transform the district into a model for sustainable tourism development, benefiting not only the local communities but also contributing to the national economy.
📸Above Banner Image: (L-R): Director Corporate Affairs of SME Corp, Mr. Rodney Sumale, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Acting CEO & the Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, Member of Nawaeb District, Hon. Theo Pelgen, TPA’s Executive Manager for Research and Business Development, Douglas Keari (third from right), Chairman & CEO of the NDDA, Mr. Buds Botike (second from right) and TPA’s Senior Provincial Liaison Officer, Stanley Relson (far right) following the singing of the MOU between TPA and NDDA in Nawaeb District, Morobe Province.
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World Tourism Day Conference is set to take place on Friday, 27 September, at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby to bring together various stakeholders from the tourism industry to voice their concerns and discuss strategies to mitigate challenges facing the sector.
The global event will be observed in PNG through the informative conference, themed, “Tourism & Peace: Unlocking PNG’s Potential through Addressing Law and Infrastructure Challenges.” aims to tackle some of the most pressing issues hindering the growth of tourism in the country.
The conference will be hosted by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), focusing on three critical topics, Addressing Law and Order, Aviation and Infrastructure and Tourism Operators.
Special guests expected to speak during the conference are, Acting Managing Director for the National Airports Corporation, Mr. Dominic Kaumu, Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini Limited, Mr. Garry Seddon, Governor of NCDC, Hon. Powes Parkop, Police Commissioner David Manning, MBE and the Head of the Tourism and Hospitality Management Department at UPNG, Dr. Joyce Rayel.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo described the conference as a crucial and timely event for the sector.
“This conference is a crucial moment for the future of tourism in Papua New Guinea. We are bringing together the key players in the industry to discuss real challenges and find practical solutions that can unlock our country’s vast tourism potential. Law and order, infrastructure, and aviation are critical areas where we need progress, and this dialogue will be an important step toward a brighter future for tourism in PNG,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also emphasized the importance of stakeholders from the industry working collaboratively for the future of tourism in the country.
“Discussions ranging from government security strategies to aviation infrastructure updates and the challenges faced by tourism operators, the conference will provide a platform for collaboration between the public and private sectors.
PNG’s tourism industry has enormous potential, but unlocking that potential requires a unified effort to address the barriers that currently hold us back,” said Uvovo.◼️
For more information on how to participate in the World Tourism Day Conference, email Mr. David Monai: ppd@papuanewguinea.travel or join the livestreaming of the event on the TPA Facebook page and YouTube page..
📥 Download the World Tourism Day Conference Program, click. 👈
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Former Director Emeritus of the Smithsonian Institution in America, Dr. Brent Glass, made a special visit to the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) on Tuesday, 17 September and discussed the importance of promoting historical literacy and public memory in Papua New Guinea.
Dr Glass was accompanied by the American Embassy’s Acting Public Affairs Officer, Claudia Borevina, and Public Engagement Assistant, Mathias Posu.
Dr. Glass, a prominent figure in the global museum and history community, has over 35 years of experience in government service. He announced his retirement as Director of the National Museum of American History, but still remains a senior advisor to the Smithsonian.
During his visit, Dr. Glass highlighted the significance of PNG’s war history as a powerful attraction for international tourists.
“Papua New Guinea’s war history is compelling and holds global interest, particularly in the context of World War II. Developing historical sites that are accessible to tourists will not only preserve this history but also create opportunities for international travelers to engage deeply with it.
PNG has the potential to become a key destination for historical tourism,” said Dr Glass.
Dr. Glass emphasized the need for the PNG government and TPA to consider their historical aspect as a major attraction for international tourists.
“Now, after more than 35 years in government service, I am excited to explore opportunities to promote history education, historical literacy, and public memory on a global scale and PNG is one of those destinations,” said Dr Glass.
During his tenure, Dr. Glass oversaw significant transformations at the Smithsonian, including the creation of new exhibitions, the acquisition of key collections, and the development of online education initiatives. Under his leadership, the National Museum of American History became a national treasure, enjoying record attendance and widespread public engagement.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo welcomed Dr. Glass and the team from the American Embassy and expressed his gratitude for their valuable insights and support in promoting historical awareness in PNG.
“We are deeply thankful to Dr. Glass for sharing his expertise with us. His knowledge of promoting history and public memory is invaluable as we continue to develop our own tourism sector.
Papua New Guinea’s war history is unique, particularly the Kokoda Track and other significant WWII sites, which are major selling points for us on the global stage. Our museums and war memorials hold a rich history that tourists from around the world are eager to discover, said Uvovo.
Uvovo also emphasized the importance of making these sites accessible to a wider audience.
“With the help of experts like Dr. Glass, we can further enhance our museums and war memorials to provide an even greater historical experience. We look forward to building on these connections and continuing to promote Papua New Guinea as a destination rich in history and culture.”
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More than 24,000 cruise ship tourists visited Papua New Guinea’s shores so far this year causing a surge in the country’s marine tourism.
According to a report released by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), using data provided by Inchcape Shipping, a total of 24,407 visitors have arrived in PNG so far this year on 12 different international cruise ship liners.
The cruise industry is playing a significant role in boosting the country’s tourism numbers, with several more vessels scheduled to arrive before the end of 2024.
Between October and December, four more cruise ships are expected to bring an estimated 6,548 additional visitors to Papua New Guinea, further contributing to the nation’s growing tourism sector.
The most frequent visitor to PNG’s shores has been the Pacific Encounter, a popular ship owned and operated by the Carnival Cruise Line. In contrast, the French-operated Le Soleal, owned by Compagnie du Ponant, has brought the fewest number of visitors but has remained a key player in the luxury cruise market.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the unique appeal of Papua New Guinea, which continues to attract visitors not only through its ports but also via international air services.
“Papua New Guinea offers a truly unique experience, from our rich cultural heritage to stunning natural landscapes.
Our country’s appeal spans across various types of travellers, whether arriving by sea or air. Each visitor has the chance to embark on their own million different journey of discovery, and that’s what makes PNG such a remarkable destination,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also highlighted TPA’s ongoing efforts to build lasting relationships with the international cruise industry.
“Over the years, we have worked closely with various cruise lines to forge strong partnerships that have been beneficial to our marine tourism sector. As the cruise ship season progresses, we look forward to welcoming even more visitors to explore the nation’s million different journeys,’ making Papua New Guinea a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world,” said Uvovo.
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