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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) sponsored K10,000 towards the 3rd Jimi Marita Festival held at Karap Primary School in Middle Jimi, Jiwaka Province on Thursday 16 January celebrating the region’s unique cultural identity and the traditional superfood, Pandanus Conoideus (Marita).
TPA’s sponsorship supported the successful hosting of the event, which highlighted the cultural and health benefits of Marita. The National Agriculture Research Institute’s (NARI) research scientist Jonah Anton, spoke extensively about the significance of Marita.
“While Marita is not currently a priority crop for NARI, we have identified 16 species in Jimi, with the total across the province exceeding 20. It’s a vital food that is now gaining the recognition it deserves. Marita is a powerhouse of nutrients with incredible health benefits. It contains three key chemicals that make it a valuable food source: Carotene, which is essential for improving eye health; Tocopherol, a potent antioxidant that supports overall well-being; and Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health and brain function. These nutrients highlight why preserving and promoting Marita is so important for both our culture and our health. Preserving Marita is crucial as it’s a dying food, and its nutritional value and cultural importance cannot be overstated,” said Anton.
Marita Festival’s Chairman, Gabbi Apainga expressed his gratitude for TPA’s support.
“We are deeply thankful to TPA for their generous sponsorship. Their involvement ensures the success of this festival and helps shine a light on the cultural importance of Marita,” said Apainga.
Jiwaka Provincial Administrator, Rick Kogan commended both the organizing committee and TPA.
“I applaud Mr. Apainga and his team for orchestrating such a successful event. TPA’s commitment to preserving our culture through initiatives like this festival is truly commendable,” said Kogan.
During the event, SME and local producers and suppliers of Marita-based products, John and Lorin Kisan, shared their journey and vision.
“We officially registered our business this year, but we’ve always had a passion for Marita,” said Mr Kisan.
Mrs Kisan added that the production of Marita products helped the local communities.
“With the high cost of imported foods, especially oils, our Marita products—including oil, soup, and stock feed for pigs—provide a convenient and affordable option for local communities,” said Mrs Kisan.
A highlight of the festival was a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the partnership established last year through an MOU signed between TPA and the Jimi District Development Authority. This officially launched TPA’s annual commitment to support the Jimi Marita Festival, ensuring its continuity and growth.
TPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo commended the organizing committee for their efforts.
“The success of this festival is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the organizing team. TPA is proud to support such initiatives that celebrate and preserve our unique cultural heritage, especially Marita and promote agritourism for the district,” said Uvovo.
📸 Thumbnail Caption (Left to right) Representative from the office of the Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture, William Lappa, Jiwaka Provincial Administrator, Rick Kogan, TPA’s Executive Officer to the CEO, Fred Pennington and Jimi Marita Festival Chairman, Gabbi Apainga during the official ribbon cutting to launch TPA’s annual commitment to the festival.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Kairuku District Development Authority (DDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday 17 January at the TPA office to unlock the district’s tourism potential through sustainable development, cultural preservation, and strategic marketing initiatives.
The partnership will focus on activities such as the PNG Flag Festival, the development of the Owsenwke Cultural Centre, and the hosting of game fishing competitions. Capacity-building programs, including tour guide and guest management training, are also planned to equip locals with the skills to support and sustain tourism development.
Member for Kairuku District, Hon. Peter Isoaimo, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, calling it a significant step toward positioning Kairuku as a key tourism destination in Papua New Guinea.
“Our district is blessed with diverse cultural and natural attractions, from Yule Island’s historical significance to our vibrant festivals and pristine coastlines. This MoU paves the way for these assets to be showcased to the world, bringing long-term benefits to our communities,” said Isoaimo.
He reaffirmed the DDA’s commitment to working closely with TPA to ensure the success of the initiatives outlined in the MoU, noting that tourism can drive positive change by creating jobs, empowering communities, and strengthening cultural pride. TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasized the transformative potential of the partnership.
“This MoU is a milestone for both TPA and Kairuku DDA. Together, we will develop a vibrant and sustainable tourism sector that celebrates the district’s rich cultural heritage while providing economic opportunities for local communities,” said Uvovo.
He highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach in achieving national tourism goals outlined in Vision 2050 and the Tourism Sector Development Plan (2022-2026).
The MoU sets a clear framework for governance, accountability, and collaborative action. It includes the establishment of a Joint Milestones Matrix (JMM) to track progress and ensure that the development initiatives remain aligned with national and district goals.
“This partnership reflects our shared vision for a sustainable tourism industry that empowers local communities while protecting our cultural and natural heritage,” Uvovo added.
Uvovo also said that, with a roadmap in place and the joint commitment of TPA and Kairuku DDA, the district is poised to become a thriving hub for cultural and eco-tourism, bringing PNG one step closer to realizing its tourism potential.
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Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – October 31, 2024 – Holiday Inn & Suites, nestled in the vibrant Waigani District, proudly launched its rebranded restaurant, Faya Haus, on Friday, October 25, 2024.
Formerly known as Kopi Haus, the restaurant has been a cornerstone of the hotel’s culinary offerings since its opening over a decade ago.
The grand unveiling drew over 200 esteemed guests from various industries, who gathered to celebrate the transformation of the newly renovated restaurant. Emphasizing its commitment to excellence as “small to medium-sized event specialists,” the Holiday Inn events team orchestrated an extraordinary ambiance, bathed in vivid yellows, oranges, and reds.
From exquisite flowers sourced from Goroko Province to striking flame-inspired decor, every detail was meticulously crafted to create an unforgettable experience.
Digital screens showcased mesmerizing whisps of fire, while an engaging countdown reveal set the stage for the evening’s festivities.
Guests marvelled at the remarkable transformation that welcomed them to Faya Haus.
“As we continue to evolve our brand presence, it’s essential that our culinary experience reflects that growth,” said Mauro Leone, Portfolio General Manager for IHG PNG.
He added, “The name ‘Faya Haus’ resonated with our team, capturing the vibrant spirit we aim to embody. With our recent renovations, we’re excited to introduce a wood-fired pizza oven and Argentinian grills, allowing us to serve delectable pizzas and premium char-grilled steaks that we believe will delight our guests.”
The menu at Faya Haus has also been refreshed allowing for a culinary fusion of bold Papua New Guinean flavors and international cooking styles and ingredients.
Guests dined on sweet potato and pumpkin ceviche, pulled lamb and hummus on pita bread, bite sized cheese burgers, lamb cutlets, BBQ beef brisket, fillet mignon and wagyu tri-tip to name a few.
To add to the culinary excitement of the event, Faya Haus also launched its brand-new cake menu and set up a dessert room for all guests to freely walk into and sample some of their sweet delights.
On offer were freshly baked apple pies, red velvet cake. Fuit gateau and naked mocca cake to name a few.
Mauro also added, “We are excited to present a menu that celebrates the rich flavors of Papua New Guinea while incorporating international influences. Our aim is to create a memorable dining experience that delights the palate and showcases the best of both worlds.”
Faya Haus Restaurant is open Monday to Sunday from 7am to 10:30pm.
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More than five prominent European Travel Agents travelled to Papua New Guinea to experience PNG’s unique birdlife and picturesque landscapes from Wednesday 9 to Wednesday 16 October this year.
The exclusive familiarization (FAM) tour was a tour organized by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in collaboration with Air Niugini (PX) and Flight Directors UK.
This trip was the outcome of TPA’s participation in the UK’s Global Bird Fair event earlier this year, which generated over 50 leads and sales, sparking international interest in PNG’s vast bird biodiversity. The coordinated FAM tour was organized by the Managing Director for Flight Directors UK, Air Niugini’s General Sales Agent (GSA), Vikky Joyce, alongside representatives from TPA.
The tour’s aim was to showcase PNG’s potential as a world-class bird-watching destination, with an itinerary designed to maximize exposure to diverse bird species and pristine habitats across renowned locations such as Walindi, Magic Mountain Lodge, Kumul Lodge, Rondon Ridge, Lake Murray, and Variarata National Park.
General Manager of Spazio and Vice President of Commercial for Distal & ITR Group, Francesco Veneziano, who was a part of the tour, commended TPA and PX for the opportunity for him to see PNG’s tourism potential.
“I am deeply grateful to PX, TPA, and our sponsors for providing me with this opportunity. This FAM tour has equipped us with the firsthand insights we need to champion Papua New Guinea’s eco-tourism potential in Italy and beyond.
The Italian market holds tremendous potential for sustainable tourism in PNG. We’re committed to developing tourist traffic that values PNG’s pristine environments as a final frontier of natural beauty—a journey that will bring great benefits to all involved,” said Veneziano.
Account Manager for Flight Directors, Alison Sorrell, who was also on the tour, highlighted PNG’s remarkable beaty.
“It was thrilling to explore PNG’s beautiful islands, and Walindi Resort was truly amazing. The large bungalows, fully equipped with all necessary facilities, were set in stunning gardens. Waking up to the sound of birds and watching the sunrise over the ocean was unforgettable.
“We were even able to observe the King of Saxony up close, which was truly amazing! This trip has been a memorable experience and an invaluable introduction to Papua New Guinea’s potential for bird tourism,” said Sorrell.
Walindi Plantation Resort, known for its traditional bungalows, breathtaking ocean views, and nearby rainforests, offered a welcoming start to the itinerary. Birding excursions revealed spectacular species such as the Raggiana Bird of Paradise and Blue Bird of Paradise, thrilling the participants in the tour, including BBC Wildlife TV presenter Mike Dilger and acclaimed bird photographer Laurens Steijn.
Bob Bates from Trans Niugini Tours added another level of adventure by arranging light aircraft transport to Lake Murray in the Western Province, where Bensbach Wildlife Lodge, served as an ideal base for bird-watching and wildlife photography.
Local community involvement was integral to the tour’s success, with residents and guides sharing their knowledge of PNG’s birdlife and engaging directly with visitors. This initiative aligns closely with TPA’s sustainable tourism goals, which prioritize protecting PNG’s natural habitats and enriching the economic prospects of local communities.
Future efforts by TPA will continue to focus on attracting special-interest groups such as photographers and nature enthusiasts, diversifying tourism opportunities while promoting the conservation of PNG’s environmental.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, commended the efforts of his team, PX and Flight Directors.
“Our partnership with Air Niugini and Flight Directors has proven that Papua New Guinea holds significant potential in the birding and eco-tourism market.
We look forward to expanding these initiatives, sharing PNG’s unique natural wonders with a global audience, and supporting sustainable tourism practices that benefit all,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also highlighted the importance of the tour to attract special tour groups to experience PNG’s million different journey.
“Our hope is that their firsthand accounts and enthusiasm will spark a ripple effect, positioning PNG as a leading bird-watching and nature-based tourism destination.
The goal of this FAM tour was to showcase PNG’s remarkable bird biodiversity to industry professionals who can promote our unique country globally, and it can only be done when we provide an authentic experience of our landscapes and endemic bird species,” said Uvovo.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) reaffirmed its partnership with Carnival Australia (P&O Cruises) to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) growing cruise sector on Monday 9 December in Sydney, Australia.
TPA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Eric Mossman Uvovo, met with Carnival Australia’s Vice President, Peter Little, to reaffirm the partnership between PNG and the region’s leading cruise liner, Carnival Australia.
Carnival Australia, under its passenger cruise brand, P&O Cruises, have been sailing into PNG waters since 2014, a significant moment that marked the entry of large capacity passenger cruising into PNG. Since then, the cruise sector in PNG has grown exponentially. In 2019, prior to the onset of the global pandemic, PNG registered the highest number of cruise arrivals into PNG at 52,000 cruise passengers alone. Over the years, Carnival Australia has played a significant role by ensuring continued cruise itineraries for PNG as a cruise destination in the Pacific.
Cruise tourism in PNG has contributed an estimated US$20 million to the PNG economy, a specific percentage of which goes directly to the local communities through landing fee’s, shore excursion activities, arts and crafts, local hire bus services and tour guiding.
TPA’s CEO alluded to the importance of ensuring concentrated investments in cruise provinces to improve the overall cruise experience.
“Our cruise hubs, Milne Bay and East New Britian, have incredible potential and require stronger coordination in the province to drive community educational programs and tourist safety initiatives,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also highlighted his concerns over recent law and order issues which have cast a cloud of doubt over the cruise sector in PNG.
“I look forward to working with the leadership in the cruise provinces of PNG to establish community policing initiatives and youth ambassador programs to mitigate risks associated with cruise port call days. The communities in these cruise destinations must appreciate the windfall of tourist a cruise brings into a town when the passenger ship calls into their port, it should be a time to embrace our visitors and take ownership as proud ambassadors for your culture, community, province and country.
I appeal to all stakeholders in our cruise provinces, a coordinated effort is critical as we continue to welcome cruise ships of all sizes into our coastal and riverway communities,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo has reaffirmed TPA’s partnership with Carnival Australia and has committed to finding proactive solutions to issues currently faced in the Cruise sector for the benefit of all cruise stakeholders.
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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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