NAMAH, IPATAS STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP TO PRESERVE ENGA CULTURE

The National Government and Enga Provincial Government have strengthened their commitment to preserving Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support cultural development in Enga Province.

Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Belden Namah praised Enga for maintaining its cultural centre since before Independence, describing the province as a national leader in cultural preservation.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mr. Namah commended Governor Peter Ipatas for his leadership over the past three decades, saying Enga remains the only province to have continuously maintained its cultural centre while hosting annual cultural shows despite challenges such as tribal conflicts.

He announced government support of K750,000 for Enga, including K500,000 for the annual Enga Cultural Show and K250,000 for the maintenance and development of the Enga Cultural Centre.

Mr Namah said the MOU would strengthen collaboration between the National Cultural Commission (NCC) and the Enga Provincial Government to support cultural research, heritage documentation and cultural promotion programs.

Governor Peter Ipatas welcomed the partnership and thanked the minister for delivering on his funding commitment.

He said preserving Enga’s culture has been a long-standing priority for the provincial government, noting that the province has expanded its cultural centre to include a museum aimed at preserving traditions and history for future generations.

Governor Ipatas also stressed the importance of maintaining authentic cultural practices, saying the Enga Cultural Show remains unique by showcasing traditional customs without incorporating modern or western influences.

He said tourism has significant potential to contribute to Papua New Guinea’s economy but stresses the need to address law and order issues to attract more visitors.

The governor added that Enga has been investing in tourism infrastructure, including supporting small accommodation providers, in preparation for future growth in the sector.