Successful World Tourism Day Conference Hosted in Port Moresby

More than 150 participants from across the tourism industry attended a World Tourism Day Conference on Friday 27th September at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby to discuss issues affecting the country’s tourism sector. 

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) hosted the conference with the attendance of key government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders who engaged in constructive dialogue under the theme “Tourism & Peace: Unlocking PNG’s Potential Through Addressing Law and Infrastructure Challenges.” 

Special guest speakers included the Honorable Governor of the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), Hon. Powes Parkop, Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, Chief of Staff of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, Chief Superintendent Kyle Saltmarsh and the Head of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Papua New Guinea, Dr. Joyce Rayel.

The conference also featured representatives from the aviation sector, airport services, and the Immigration Authority, who spoke on issues affecting their services and how these impact the tourism sector.  

The conference was structured into three key sessions that tackled vital issues for the industry which included, Addressing Law & Order: Government & Security Strategies, Aviation, Infrastructure and Tourism Accessibility – Updates and Challenges and Tourism Operators: Overcoming Industry Challenges. Each session focused on exploring solutions to the barriers affecting PNG’s tourism growth, including crime, infrastructure deficits, and accessibility. 

During the session on law and order, Chief Superintendent Kyle Saltmarsh emphasized the efforts of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to work closely with the tourism industry, ensuring safer environments for tourists and operators. His message highlighted the critical role that security plays in promoting PNG as a safe and welcoming destination for both international and domestic visitors.  

Aviation and infrastructure were highlighted as essential components of tourism development. Speakers from airports and air service authorities provided updates on ongoing projects to improve the country’s connectivity and address key challenges, including limitations on flight routes and the need for better airport infrastructures to support tourism.  

Industry operators also shared their perspectives on overcoming the challenges they face daily.  

Owner and Manager of Paiya Tours, Pym Mamindi, spoke passionately about the need for a more positive approach within the industry.
“We have to stop thinking negative. Negative issues that come up we always tend to overthink this and think that it’s us. There are far worse issues happening in the world. Be positive, PNG still remains the best destination in the world,” said Mamindi. 

Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting the tourism sector as a pillar for national development.
“Tourism is crucial for Papua New Guinea’s future. It creates jobs, brings in foreign investment, and shows our incredible cultural and natural diversity to the world. I am working to make tourism a priority within the government. We must ensure that tourism is not just a sector but a key part of our national strategy for economic growth and community development,” said Minister Namah. 

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasized the transformative power of tourism for Papua New Guinea.
“Tourism is not just about showing our beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is a catalyst for peace, economic growth, and social unity. By addressing our infrastructure and security challenges, we can unlock PNG’s true potential as a global tourism destination, while uplifting the lives of our people and strengthening our communities,” said Uvovo.◼️