To open up the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023, General Manager of PNGFM LIMITED thanked the sponsors for coming on board with special mentions to the Platinum Sponsor, Kumul Consolidated Holdings and the Justin Hansu Kili MBE award sponsor, Keynote PNG. "Thank you for coming out tonight to celebrate our artists." "We pay tribute to the late Justin Hansu Kili MBE also and remember him for his efforts in putting together this awards ceremony 19 year ago." She also said a word of appreciation to the supporting sponsors, Lamana Hotel, Trophy Haus, Printsol, Budget, Hannah's Beauty Box and Kutmor Limited for coming on board and making this award ceremony eventuate. "Thank you to platinum sponsor Kumul Consolidate Holdings and Keynote PNG for sponsoring the Justin Kili Awards an to the listeners who listen to Yumi FM." Meanwhile there are 10 categories to award and two categories are chosen by he listeners which are the Justin Hansu Kili MBE Awards and the Listener's Song choice of the year.

Following the school fights that erupted over negative social media posts, the school administrations and SRC of Don Bosco Technical School and De La Salle Secondary School signed a Joint Statement on the need to dissipate external negative influence on their students. In the joint statement, they declared that both schools have been victims of the irresponsible use of the social media platform, by external individuals. “Negative and unfounded posts on Facebook and WhatsApp have triggered a chain of ill-feelings and resentment among our students.” “Yesterday we (DBTS and DLSS administration and SRCs) met at the NCD Education Services Division to take concrete steps to our commitment.” The schools stated that they are grateful to Mr. Peter Kants, First Assistant Secretary, for his presence and directive and other members of the Education Service Division for chairing the meeting. “We also met with his Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat MSC who listened to us and gave us his blessing and guidance.” With the help of competent authorities, both schools want to identify the root causes of the issue and hold responsible the authors of the content circulated on the internet that hurt our students' feelings and put at stake their good name. “Consequently, we are in the process of investigating the matter and will deal appropriately with registered students who have incited their companions to take the law into their own hands.” Additionally, they have appealed to their dear students to have recourse to reason and their best character. “You are not what people say or want you to be.” “You have a noble dignity, created in the image and likeness of God.” “No one can take this dignity from you, much less a Facebook post.” “Beware of the consequences of your decisions and actions.” Meanwhile as per NCD Education Service Division, with whom both schools also met with yesterday, in the event of another fight, their grade 10 and 12 students will not sit for their National Exams, nor will they be certified. “Let us not forget that we are all brothers and sisters of our Heavenly Father.” “As Matthew 5:9 states, ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God’.”

Excitement is building up for the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards 2023 on Saturday June 1st, 2024, at the Lamana Gold Club Arena with only one more day to go and just a few hours remaining on the clock on the countdown. The prestigious YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS with Platinum sponsor Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) and the Justin Kili award sponsor Keynote along with support sponsors Trophy Haus, Lamana Hotel, Printsol, Budget Rent-a-car, Hannah’s Beauty Box, Eventz Tech and the support of sister stations Nau FM, Legend FM, PNG HAUSBUNG, MAGIC FACTORY and is managed by the TOTAL EVENT COMPANY. With a great line up of artists to perform live on the night, it will be an event not to be missed. Artists performing on the night are PNG’s local singing sensation, Saii Kay who will be sure to perform his hit songs like ‘Unlove’ and ‘Malolo’, 4Blordz & Dan Blantz who will be bringing the crowd mentally to Madang province with their songs from their Panu EP album like ‘Go Bek KRK’, ‘Panu’ and ‘Aburusim. Also, in the mix that will be rocking on the night is Mikes Toto bringing the crowd to the blocks with his song “Missim Yuh’ while Daniel Bilip belts out crowd favorites like “Mangi Yarox’ and ‘Nanga Maku’ and to throw in a bit of Hip Hop, Sprigga mek will also be performing his songs like ‘Sweet Thing’ and ‘400 Naka’. Tickets are on still on sale now at the PNGFM office at Ahuia Street, Gordons and at the Lamana Hotel reception with the Balcony tickets going for K200 per person and the Arena tickets for K180 per person. There will also be a limited number of tickets to be sold at the gate so get to the gates early if you want to grab yourself a ticket.

International Container Terminal Services Incorporated South Pacific, the leading terminal port operator in PNG have in a small but significant ceremony, announced a generous donation cheque of K1 million to the Enga Provincial Disaster Management Trust dedicated to supporting relief efforts for the recent landslide in Enga Province. The landslide has caused significant casualties, damage and displaced numerous families has left the community in urgent need of assistance. ICTSI South Pacific Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Robert Maxwell stated that as part of their company values, they have felt a strong responsibility to support our communities in times of need and that this donation of K1million is a testament to their commitment to helping the people of Enga recover and rebuild their lives. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of so many lives, homes and food gardens caused by the landslide in the Tulipato village in Mulitaka, Enga Province in which some 2, 000 are missing and 8, 000 displaced; recovery efforts being severely hampered by treacherous terrain and the risk of continued land movement and landslips.” “Our donation of K1 million is a testament to our commitment to helping the people of Enga recover and rebuild their lives.” The cheque was received on behalf of the people of Enga Province by their Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas who thanked ICTSI SP from the bottom of his heart and was witnessed by the Deputy Prime Minister, John Rosso. “On behalf of the people of Enga who have been affected by this unprecedented natural disaster, Thank you for this donation.” He stated that with the constant climate change, these disasters are inevitable and mentioned that the Deputy Prime Minister and the Defence Minister were on site recently to inspect the damage done. Sir Ipatas said that he hopes our government can also assist the people of Enga in these trying times. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you.” “It’s all about a sense of community and we sincerely thank you for this donation.” Meanwhile the Governor stated that this donation will go towards assisting thousands that were displaced and mentioned that Prime Minister James Marape would be visiting the site today (Friday, May 31st, 2024). He added they have also reached out to the Australian and New Zealand Governments to help assist with geo-technical machines to assist in clearing up the debris and fixing the roads.

Young PNG local singer, Raylinda Ruth Mura popularly known by her stage name Raylinda,was surprised to find out she had been nominated for the Female Artist of the year category in the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards ceremony this Saturday, June 1st. “I’m surprised maybe because I wasn’t thinking about it, but I’m happy and it feels good to be nominated for this award.” “I feel like it’s a bit of an appreciation but it’s not like I’m expecting it because there are a lot of great female artists out there like Mereani, Esther and Danielle.” “I do appreciate the fact that people like and enjoy listening to my songs and I think that is what I am grateful for as well.” Following her social media speculation regarding her graduation at the UPNG School of Law, Raylinda stated that being nominated was one of the positive things that have happened for her and that she was excited. “I think it’s one of the positive things that happened through-out this month for me so I’m excited." "I'm more excited about it now then I was last year because of everything that happened this year.” She was nominated in the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards 2022, last year for the Female Artist category as well for her collaboration with Mal Meninga Kuri on their song ‘Mak osem Tattoo’ and this year is nominated for her song ‘Stay Where you are’. Despite the challenges that she faces daily in her school and work life, the singer said that she uses singing as a distraction from it all and as a way to cope with all the stress. “When I get stressed or overwhelmed, I get into the studio and sing something or write something and I feel better.” “Singing is something that I use to cope." "It’s an outlet that allows me to say things and express myself and basically say things that I can’t say out loud.” Meanwhile the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards is set for this Saturday, June 1st, 2024, at the Lamana Gold Club Arena. Tickets are sold at the PNGFM office, Ahuia Street, Gordons and at the Lamana Hotel reception. Tickets are K200 per person for Balcony tickets and K180 per person for Arena tickets. Get your tickets now if you are still yet to.

Digicel PNG Limited, the country’s biggest cellphone network provider has extended its deepest condolences to the Government of PNG, the Enga Provincial Government, the people of Mulitaka, and the families affected by the catastrophic landslide in Yambali, Enga Province. The May 24 disaster caused extensive damage to homes and essential infrastructure, leading to the displacement of thousands of local villagers and the deaths of many. In a statement, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ketan Mehta, expressed Digicel’s concern for the well-being of the families affected by the devastating landslide. “Our hearts go out to those currently affected as they cope with this tragic event.” Meanwhile, in response to the disaster, Digicel PNG has pledged to provide assistance by offering free calls, SMS, and data for up to seven days starting immediately for the area effected by the disaster. “The offer is as follows 80 minutes (all-net), 5 minutes International, 80 SMS, 750MB valid for 7 days." “Digicel is committed to supporting the people of PNG, Enga, and all those affected during this difficult time.”

PNGFM Limited, parent company of Nau FM, Yumi FM, Legend FM, PNG HAUSBUNG and MAGIC FACTORY today announced the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS 2023 with Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) is set for Saturday June 1st at the Lamana Gold Club Arena. General Manager of PNGFM, Rosemarie ‘Shaz’ Botong stated that the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS is a celebration of our local artists and is the only event that recognizes the efforts of artists in the country. “We are celebrating its 19th year. We have Saii Kay who has three nominations this year and Sprigga Mek who is a first-time nominee. This is what it’s all about.” “It’s about the artists. A lot of times we forget, and we don’t really appreciate the amount of work that happens behind the scenes to get a song to a place where everybody can hear it.” Ms Botong added that although there were live streaming platforms which artists can use, in PNG, Radio is still the most accessible media to a lot of people in the country. “And we as a radio station in Nau Fm, Yumi Fm and Legend FM would not be here without the music, would not be here without the local artists and this is why the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS was set up.” Ms Botong stated that the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS ceremony was founded by the Late Justin Hansu Kili MBE and it was a way to recognize the hard works of the artists. She further announced the nominations and the 10 categories: 1. Best New Artist 2. Album of the Year 3. Song of the Year 4. Male Artists of the Year 5. Female Artist of the Year 6. APRA Artist of the Year 7. Best Duo/Group of the Year 8. Producer of the Year The following two categories were voted for by the listeners via call, walk-ins, of Facebook over the following durations: 9. Justin Kili Award with Keynote-March 11th –March 24th, 2024 10. Listener’s Choice Song of the Year with KCH- April 29th-May 5th, 2024 Nominees for the 2023 YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS are as follows in the following categories: 1. Best New Artist category: Shadows of Souths, Legality Ewanedtz 2. Album of the Year: Kanaka Messenjah Album- Sprigga Mek, Unlove Volume 3 EP-Saii Kay, Maimai Inc Volume 1 Album- Tonton Malele Panu EP- 4Blordz & Dan Blantz 3. Song of the Year: Aburusim- 4Blordz & Dan Blantz, Missim Yuh-Mikes Toto Ft Bee White & King Swega, Block Mangi- Kande Dwayne & Skwatas Ft Jay Why & Gee Yaga 4. Male Artist of the Year: Saii Kay, Sprigga Mek Tonton Malele 5. Female Artist of the Year: Raylinda, Legality Upzy Galama 6. APRA Registered Artists of the Year: Richie Saeni-Chu Chu, Ronald Haro- Missim Yu Clinton Malele- Pikinini Niu Ailan Ft. Nene Morus & Jayrex Suisui 7. Best Duo/Group of the Year: MinigulaiBand, Jnr Vigi 4Blordz & Dan Blantz 8. Producer of the Year: Statz Mahn, Dr Wiz Jemboii Managing Director of Kumul Consolidated Holdings, Professor David Kavanamur was proud to announce this partnership with PNGFM Limited in developing local artists through the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards. “Through this sponsorship we not only recognize our local artists but also promote awareness and a certain unity through music as well as instil values in the youths of this nation to realize their self-worth and take their place in society.” “Thank you to everyone and may the best artist come out on that night.” Furthermore, Justin Kili Award sponsor, Keynote PNG External Sales Manager Emmanuel Korai announced that Keynote was stoked to be sponsoring the award and thanked Yumi FM for creating this avenue and wished all the nominees all the best. Meanwhile tickets are on sale now at the PNGFM office, Ahuia Street, Gordons and the Lamana Hotel Reception. Balcony Tickets are K200 per person and K180 per person for the arena tickets. The YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS 2023 comes with the full support of Justin Kili Award Sponsor Keynote PNG, Lamana Hotel, Trophy Haus, Printsol, Budget Rent-a-car, Hannah’s Beauty Box, Eventz Tech, NAU FM, LEGEND FM, PNG HAUSBUNG, MAGIC FACTORY and is managed by the TOTAL EVENT COMPANY.

The United States (US) Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has provided support to PNG Power Limited (PPL) to design and implement its Amnesty Initiative.   The initiative has added over 30, 000 new customers to PPL’s customer registry to date, which generated additional revenue for the utility of over K1 million from 2022 to 2023.   USAID Country Representative, Nino Nadiradze stated that ongoing revenue created by these new registrations is expected to top several million Kina per year.   “The United States is committed to helping PPL increase revenue, build their customer base, and improve service.”   “Increased revenue from customers can support PPL making necessary infrastructure investments to support the Government of PNG as it works to meet its goal of 70% electrification by 2030.”   PPL General Manager Retail, Mr. Kingston Albert said that thanks to PPL's Amnesty Initiative, they've successfully enrolled consumers who have voluntarily registered and pledged to fulfill their monthly energy bills.   “Our efforts to uncover illegal connections persist, and we will take appropriate action against those who refuse to comply with payment obligations."   Additionally, prior to the Amnesty Initiative, PPL was suffering from a 26% to 30% energy loss due to over 100, 000 illegal connections, including many large businesses. The Amnesty Initiative allows customers who were previously connecting to PPL’s grid illegally to register as customers without penalties, back bills, or service fees.   These new customers receive a fixed monthly bill based on their household profile and receive more consistent, reliable power than their previous illegal connections provided.   Furthermore, the quality of service has converted non-paying electricity consumers into responsible payees, which means that increased PPL revenue will continue on a monthly basis.   The Amnesty Initiative has reduced illegal connections by almost one-third.   PPL, through a collaboration with MiBank has also made it easier for customers to pay their energy bills. Customers can now pay bills via MiBank agents nationwide, including at retail stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies.   Meanwhile, the Amnesty Initiative is ongoing and those wishing to register may call 116, contact PPL on WhatsApp at 70001009, or via email at amnesty@pngpower.com.pg. More information can be found at www.pngpower.com.pg/amnesty.

Another legend in the country’s music industry has fallen with the nation now mourning the death of music legend, the late Lister Serum MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), who passed away yesterday, Friday 24th May. The late Serum was recognized for his contribution to the music industry in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in 2019 with the British Order awarded by the late Queen Elizabeth II, which is awarded for an outstanding achievement or service to the community. Yumi FM radio announcer, Kasty stated that he had known him to be one who was humble in his early days when he was with his group ‘Connections of Lae’ before he went solo. “His music was aired on radio through the CHM feature that we had on Yumi FM every Sundays to promote songs that were recorded under the studio.” “The modern Tok Pisin in his songs touched his fans as his songs had a lot of meaning about the hardships that we faced then and that we continue to face.” He said that some of his songs had catchphrases that were widely used back then and in this era from his songs like ‘Blow Up’ and ‘Longpela Rot’. “His death has brought a huge devastation to us but we are happy for his contribution and the huge influence that he had on the music industry.” Kasty added that the late icon singer, was big on encouraging and was a huge inspiration to the younger singers like Tarvin Toune and a lot of others. “Whenever artists were in Lae, he would show up to encourage them and gave them confidence to perform. Old music isn’t the same anymore so that led to him working with a lot of the younger artists.” “He sang about our life situations that we all go through and now that he is gone, I’m saddened by the news, but I am happy that he has left a huge mark on the music industry for the younger generation to follow.” Tarvin Toune, one of the younger artist that looked up to him stated that he looked up to the late singer and his music. “He is a PNG icon that we look up to and I am grateful that I had the privilege of performing with him. A lot of our legendary musicians have left us and now he is gone as well.” “His passing has saddened us and we are mourning his loss as well. Condolences to his immediate family and may he rest in peace.” Kasty also stated that his death has left a huge gap in the music industry and has devastated his fans. Meanwhile, Kasty mentioned that there were a few songs that the late singer had recorded with a few young artists that were still in production so even with him gone, his voice will still be heard in those songs when they are released. “He may be gone, but his music will still be played on radio and live on.”

For the first time ever, Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) has proudly come on board as the main Platinum Sponsor for the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards for 2023, which is set to take place on Saturday June 1st at the Lamana Gold Club Arena, Port Moresby city. KCH, formerly known as the Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC), was initially established under the Kumul Consolidated Holdings Act of 2002 and acts as a trustee and holds assets vested in it for the benefit of the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the people of Papua New Guinea. Managing Director of Kumul Consolidated Holdings, Professor David Kavanamur stated that music is a powerful tool that has positive impact on society that brings together people from all walks of life, creating a sense of belongingness and social cohesion. “It serves as a powerful force that breaks down social barriers, helps shape culture, physical and mental health, and most importantly, keeps our youths away from mischief.” Professor Kavanamur stated that KCH came onboard to sponsor this significant event in the country’s music industry for three main reasons. The first was that KCH recognizes the efforts of local artists and how their music has direct impact on people’s lives in a positive way. “As I previously mentioned, music is an art that can be utilized to bring about positive behavior change into our communities both at the individual and collective level.” He said PNG is a land of a thousand tribes with over 800 languages, but through the rhythm, melody, and harmony of local music, it brings everyone together as one family. “Music keeps us intact as a family unit. Through such music festivals, music brings us all together as one people, no matter what region, clan, and tribe you come from, it is music that breaks down all social boundaries and brings us all together.” The KCH Managing Director also wants the people to recall the song titled “Together as One” by Lucky Dube and reflect on how this song speaks volumes and brings meaning to the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023. “As humans we are faced with so many challenges in our daily lives, but coming together as one and addressing our challenges together, we can find solutions. Solving problems together can only bring positive impact in our society.” Mr. Kavanamur also went on to explain that this KCH sponsorship is to promote positive stories to the youths and create awareness about the mandate of KCH and the important role it plays through the services and products offered by its MSOEs. “These services offered by MSOEs provides the basic daily needs for many Papua New Guineans such as water, power, air travel, ports, telecommunications, and others.” “These services go a long way to improve the quality of life of our citizens and contribute to our national GDP. Hence, it is important that our citizens, particularly our youths, understand the important role MSOEs play in providing essential services for our people.” There are 9 MSOEs that come under KCH that have operations across the country. These entities are Air Niugini, Water PNG, PNG Power, PNG Ports Corporation, Telikom, PNG DataCo, Post PNG, Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited (MVIL) and the National Development Bank (NDB). Kavanamur stated that its MSOEs hold the backbone infrastructure of the nation in water and sewerage, power, telecommunications, aviation, insurance, ports, postal services, and banking. These services contribute significantly to other sectors of the economy including health, education, agriculture and fisheries, manufacturing, retail and wholesale, and transportation and trade. All these sectors contribute to the socioeconomic growth of PNG. “KCH and its nine State Owned Enterprises would like to celebrate and recognize our hard-working local talents that through their music, we are all one family unit on the awards night.” Meanwhile, Professor Kavanamur expressed his gratitude and appreciation to PNG FM Limited for ensuring a transparent process in the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS, which recognizes the efforts of local artists on the popular YUMI FM TOP 20 countdown. “I would also like to thank PNG FM for this partnership which enables us to improve the public image of KCH and its SOEs.” “Em tasol (That’s it) and let’s celebrate! Thank you!”

Nominated for the first time in the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023, Allan Aufamau well known by his stage name “Sprigga Mek” was surprised to find out he was one of the nominees. He was nominated for his album ‘Kanaka Messenjah’ and said that the nomination came as a surprise to him. “To be honest it came as a surprise, I don’t usually get nominated for these things. It’s a great honor and privilege to be acknowledged after all these years. It’s for the culture.” “I’m looking forward to the night. I’ll be performing so I’ll make sure to put on a good show on the night.” He said that he released his album Kanaka Messenjah in November 2023 and stated that it was a conscious album to help remind people of their identity and who we are in this day and age. The album was released in November 2023. “Despite the evolving world, it doesn’t mean you lose yourself and your identity. Be true to who you are, maintaining our customs and traditions as well and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.” The songs on the album include ‘400 Naka’, ‘Sweet Thing’, ‘Koros blo Tupla’ with Mereani Masani and ‘Vanua Ralemana’ in which he raps in Aroma language. Additionally, Sprigga was happy to see that the seeds they planted 20 years ago was finally bearing fruit in terms of new and upcoming hip-hop rappers in PNG. “And you know we have kids like Desiz, G Smooth and his whole crew. We’re really proud of the young boys who have come but it’s only going to get better. People are starting to accept that Hip-Hop is gonna be a part of PNG music now.” “I know the ones coming up will be inspired by Desiz so we’re going to have some good MC’s, conscience verbal artists in the future.” “We’re blown away by the talent, we’re just like a bunch of proud fathers hearing their songs. It’s a humbling experience to see our labor come to fruition.” Furthermore, he encouraged the younger generation of the nation to work hard for something they were passionate about. “If you’re really passionate about something, you eat and sleep it. You have to put your heart and soul into it and make sure you don’t lose yourself along the way. Focus, be good to people that you meet along the way, create good vibes and just be original. “ “Create your own unique sound and stand out from the crowd. Why follow the crowd when the crowd can follow you?” Meanwhile, competing with Sprigga for the Male Artist Award of the Year is youngster Tonton Malele and local singing sensation Saii Kay, while his Kanaka Messenjah album competes in the Best Album category with the Maimai Inc. Volume 1, Unlove Volume 3, and EP and 4Blordz & Dan Blantz’ album, Panu EP album. The Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023 is set for Saturday, June 1st at the Lamana Gold Club Arena and it is the only awards ceremony in PNG that recognizes local artists for their work in growing the PNG music industry.

The inaugural Central Music Festival (CMF), taking place from today May 24th to the 26th, is poised to deliver significant economic and social benefits to Central Province, specifically to the Rigo District. This groundbreaking event, organized with the support of the National Cultural Commission (NCC), will not only showcase local talent and culture, but also stimulate the local economy and foster community development. Allen Kedea, President of the Central Music Festival, emphasized the uniqueness and importance of the event. "In Central, it is definitely the first. And I think nationally we have not had a provincial music festival yet," he said. The festival will feature 54 artists performing over the three days, along with 60 SME stalls comprising 40 local and 20 corporate businesses. One of the key benefits of the festival is its potential to boost the local economy. Kedea explained, "Locally, it brings about business for our local people to help with the groundwork, to help with the preparations.” "The festival has engaged local workers for construction and setup, including building SME stalls, toilets, and fencing, thereby injecting money directly into the community. In addition to providing employment opportunities, the festival offers a platform for local entrepreneurs, especially women.” "We're also including all the SME mamas and the ladies to come and sell their goods so that they can also benefit from the three days and make as much money as they can," Kedea noted. The stall fee is a nominal K100 for the three days, and vendors keep all their profits. The festival also aims to promote agro-tourism and music tourism, attracting visitors from Port Moresby and beyond. "We want to take some of that money and spread it around our central province as well and bring the kina and bring people out to experience the province as well," Kedea said. This influx of visitors has already resulted in all local accommodations being fully booked, demonstrating the immediate economic impact. Tourism generated by the festival is expected to have lasting benefits. Kedea highlighted the potential for long-term developments, "It begins to change their mindset in terms of allowing them to think outside the box. What else can they do? Can they do construction of a lodge? Or if you're smaller than that, maybe some people will look at things like home-stay." The festival also fosters cultural pride and community spirit. Residents of Port Moresby and surrounding districts have the opportunity to experience the unique culture of Central Province. Kedea expressed hope that the festival would become an annual event, furthering these benefits, "If this event is successful, and we are hoping that it will be, what we are then hoping is that it will become an annual event. And then it's not going to be a one-off." Such continuity would allow for more sustainable development and partnerships, reducing reliance on government funding. "We hope to build more business partnerships and sponsorship so we don't rely on taxpayers' money. We are conscious that this is government money and it's the people's money. So, we have to give back to the people and the people must benefit from this," Kedea stated. The festival showcases local talent, stimulates economic growth, and promotes cultural tourism, all while promoting a sense of unity and pride among the people of Central Province.