Prime Minister James Marape urged the people of Hela Province to embrace peace and cooperation to foster development, when he officially opened the new Hela Unity Market in Tari. The Prime Minister, who is also Hela MP, said unity is important for sustainable progress, referencing the positive changes achieved in Hela over the past two years during a period of reduced conflict. “Put an end to fighting and live more positive lives to sustain yourselves,” he said, adding, “I am happy that the last two years there has been no fighting, which has resulted in more development taking place here.” The K10 million Hela Unity Market serves as both an economic and symbolic hub for the community, providing local farmers a modern platform to sell fresh produce, meals, and crafts. Built to replace the previous deteriorating market, this facility also represents Prime Minister Marape’s commitment to continued development in the region. At the inauguration, he assured the crowd that the government would continue to support the people of Hela. "Your government will continue to do good things for you if you maintain peace in the community.” The new marketplace exemplifies how peace and unity can directly contribute to economic progress in Tari and Hela Province.