By Samuel Raitano

Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare made the 44th Independence Anniversary a memorable one for the people of Imbongu, SHP and rest of the Highlands and Coastal Provinces who attended on the 16th September 2019 at Mighty Walum Junction.

Special thanks and gratitude to the local MP and "Chief" Pila Niningi and his people of Imbongu Electorate for the well behaved and well organized historical event ever.
Hospitality was fantastic even for local tourists, travellers and visitors. Starting September 13 crowds started pouring in but no one was left homeless and stranded outside in the cold nights during the lead up to Independence day.

No drunken brawls, no drunkards, no weapons. Local boys in the electorate policed the multitude from the start to the end of the four day event. People moved in one accord with respect to directions from the grand stand and Master of Ceremony Culligan Tanda of PNG's best radio station FM 100.
Thanks to Police and Military as well for organizing markets and traffic flow along the Highlands highway.

People were in tears when the Grand Chief made his speech.
He released his blessing and made a notable remark that the people of Hela should be happy because now is the time their PNG LNG benefits will be released to them.
2020 Independence Anniversary and Imbongu Cultural Show is expected to be bigger and better.