Prime Minister James Marape officially opened the new “Hela Unity Market” in Tari, Hela Province, on Friday, November 1, 2024, marking a significant boost for local business and community engagement. The K10 million market, a modernized facility, was established to support farmers by providing a reliable space to sell fresh produce, prepared meals, and traditional crafts. The market also aims to meet the increasing demand for quality agricultural products by offering state-of-the-art facilities, including future plans for livestock sales and freezer storage for animal products. At the opening, Prime Minister Marape, who is also Hela MP, stressed the broader economic impact this market could have on Hela’s resource-rich economy, especially as it can now link local farmers with major markets in Port Moresby and Lae cities. "This new Hela Unity Market is the perfect avenue for you to capitalise on to sustain yourselves," Marape said, emphasizing how vendors can now more easily access banking and financial support locally. “Your district, provincial, and national government are here to support you where we can by providing the resources you need to succeed," he continued. Reflecting on his own background, Marape shared his personal connection to the market, explaining how he once sold produce with his mother at the old Tari market to fund his education. Encouraging the community to seize new opportunities, he reminded them that the new market is designed for self-reliance and economic growth, ensuring that the people of Tari and Hela have the support to thrive.