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The Motu Koita Assembly is a unique legislative body in Papua New Guinea that represents the indigenous Motu and Koitabu people, who are the traditional landowners of the National Capital District, where the capital city of Port Moresby is located.

10/03/2026

Generosity Takes Center Stage in Motu Koita Celebrations.

Kira Kira Village - Port Moresby’s city centre pulsed with energy as NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop and MKA Chairman Hon. Russell Simon Wavik led a spirited march under the banner “Give to Gain.”

Yet, away from the bustle, a quieter but equally powerful celebration unfolded in Kirakira Village—one that placed reflection and community at its heart.

A special Sunday service was initiated by East Motu Koita Women’s Representatives Hon. Gorame Momo on the 8th of March 2026 at Kira Kira United Church and attended by guests such as the West Motu Koita Women’s Representative Hon. Mere Daera, the Hiri Hanenamo Miss Luisa Udia, plus women in the community aimed at bringing together Motu Koita women under one banner of acknowledging International Womens Day.

The highlight of the program came through a stirring sermon delivered by Evangelist Pamela Amini. With conviction and warmth, she reminded the crowd that true empowerment is born not from what we keep, but from what we give. Her message of generosity and spiritual reward resonated deeply with the theme of the day.

As the sun dipped low, the celebration closed on a poignant note. Voices rose together in the timeless chorus of “Love is Something That You Give Away,” a song that perfectly captured the mission of the day: that strength, unity, and hope are found in sharing with one another.

From the city streets to the village grounds, the Motu Koita people proved that giving is not loss—it is the very foundation of gain.

09/03/2026

Unity in Motion: Motu Koita Assembly Marches for "Rights, Justice, and Action"

PORT MORESBY – In a vibrant display of purple, white, and indigenous pride, the Motu Koita Assembly (MKA) joined forces with the National Capital District Commission and international partners on Sunday, March 8th, to mark International
Women’s Day 2026.

The morning began at the iconic Era Kone (Ela Beach), where hundreds gathered for a solidarity march to the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. The event served as a high-level call to arms under this year’s global theme: “Rights. Justice. Action. For all women and girls.”

The march was led by NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, MP, alongside the Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly, Hon. Russell Simon Wavik. Their presence signaled a unified front between the city’s administration and its indigenous landowners in the fight for a safer, more equitable Papua New Guinea.

Representing the heart of the Motu Koita community was the 2025-2026 Hiri Hanenamo, Miss Luisa Margaret Udia. Serving as a cultural ambassador, Miss Udia stood at the vanguard of the procession, helping to carry the International Women’s Day banner and bridging the gap between ancient tradition and modern advocacy.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, MP, delivered a stirring keynote address. Accompanied by Madam Rachael Marape, the Prime Minister challenged the men and boys of the nation to move beyond passive support and become active "champions" for the safety and rights of women.

The international community echoed these sentiments, with speeches from distinguished guests, Mr. Matsuoka Hideaki, Chief Representative of the JICA PNG Office and Mr. Ewen McDonald, Australian High Commissioner to PNG.

While the march from Era Kone has concluded, the message remains clear: the Motu Koita Assembly stands firm in its commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls. Whether in purple, white, or traditional attire, the sea of participants yesterday proved that when the people of Port Moresby walk together, the path toward justice becomes a little shorter for everyone.

16/02/2026

~Launch of the Amazing Port Moresby 50 years Events 2026 - Sunday 15th February 2026 ~

Today, the Motu Koita Assembly proudly stood with the National Capital District to officially launch the Amazing Port Moresby – 50 Years Celebrations for 2026 at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.

As Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly and Deputy Governor of NCD, Hon. Russell Simon Wavik reminded us that this milestone is more than the start of a calendar of events — “We honour a journey” — a journey of transformation, resilience, partnership and identity.

For 50 years, Port Moresby has grown into the political, economic and cultural heart of our nation. Yet long before it became the capital of a modern state, this land, these shores and these waters were home to the Motu Koita people — the traditional custodians of this city.

Today, we reaffirm that we are not only witnesses to this history, but partners in shaping its future. Working alongside the Governor for the National Capital District (NCD) Hon. Powes Parkop and NCD City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank, we commit to growth that is inclusive, sustainable and culturally grounded, where tradition and progress walk hand in hand.

Unity was the message of the day — unity between traditional custodians and city authorities, villages and suburbs, elders and youth, and across all cultures that now call Port Moresby home. We thank NCD Governor, City Manager and NCDC for their collaboration, and acknowledge the Tatana Peroveta Group, Sounds of Hanuabada, Vabukori String Band and the Hetura Cultural Group for proudly representing our heritage at yesterday’s Launch of the Amazing Port Moresby 50 years Events 2026.

For a Rising Motu Koita. For a Stronger and Amazing Port Moresby. For our Nation- Papua New Guinea.

Together, we will shape the next 50 years with courage and collaboration!

08/02/2026

Motu Koita Cultural Ambassador Hiri Hanenamo showcases at the Singapore Air show

The 2025–2026 Hiri Hanenamo Miss, Luisa Margaret Udia, represents Papua New Guinea, along with several other cultural ambassadors from around the country, at the Official Singapore Airshow—made possible through an engagement with Air Niugini and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority

Through a high-profile partnership with Airbus, Air Niugini is showcasing the latest addition to its fleet — the “People’s Balus” — positioning the national airline on a global stage while reinforcing Papua New Guinea’s presence in the international aviation industry.
To ensure that its presence is both impactful and authentically Papua New Guinean, Air Niugini has engaged 10 cultural ambassadors to perform and interact with visitors during the four-day public showcase from the 3rd to the 8th of February.

Among these ambassadors is none other than our very own Hiri Hanenamo, serving as one of the airline’s key drawcards and distinguishing Air Niugini’s exhibition from other international carriers by showcasing Papua New Guinea’s vibrant cultural heritage.

30/01/2026

~ 2026 TVET & TERTIARY SUBSIDY PROGRAM ~

Important notice for all Motu Koitabuans: Registration for the TVET and Tertiary Subsidy Program begins on the dates listed below.

Please ensure you review all requirements carefully before visiting the registration site.

12/01/2026

~Kings Baton Relay, Glasgow 2026~

The Motu Koita Assembly facilitated the King’s Baton Relay through Hanuabada village following its launch on Thursday 8th January by the Governor General of PNG, His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae, commencing its historic journey in the Nation’s Capital.

The golden village renowned for raking medals on global sporting platforms came to life with the parading of the prestigious King's Baton by Chairman for Motu Koita Assembly, Hon Russell Simon Wavik, and local sporting legends, while accompanied by council members and Motu Koita Cultural Ambassador, 2025-2026 Hiri Hanenamo Miss Louisa Margaret Udia.

The baton was handed down from the office of the Governor General through the highly decorated sports administrator of PNG, Sir John Dawanincura, and the Governor for NCD, Hon Powes Parkop, MP.

07/01/2026

~ Kings Baton Relay, Glasgow 2026~

Preparations are in order to host the Journey of the Kings Baton through Hanuabada.

The King's Baton Relay is a global journey leading up to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

It will commence with the highly decorated sports administrator of PNG Sir John Dawanincura, who will pass on the king’s baton to NCD Governor Hon Powes Parkop and Motu Koita Assembly Chairman and Deputy Governor Hon Russell Simon Wavik at Badihagwa roundabout, Metoreia, who will then facilitate the journey of the King’s Baton throughout the village accompanied by the local councilors.

The road throughout the village is temporarily closed off to facilitate this momentous occasion.

04/01/2026

AT least 10 Motu-Koitabu homebrew producers in Hanuabada, National Capital District, surrendered their distillation equipment to authorities on Christmas Eve.

This action marked the first significant step in years towards ending the production and sale of illicit alcohol, locally known as “faia wara”, which has long plagued the community.

The initiative was spearheaded by Motu-Koita Assembly (MKA) chairman Russel Wavik.

– Picture supplied

Read More: https://www.thenational.com.pg/hanuabada-homebrew-producers-surrender-equipment/

15/11/2025

Motu Koita Assembly Pays Tribute to Pioneer Leader Miria Naime Ikupu

Port Moresby, 15 November 2025

The Motu Koita Assembly today mourns the passing of Miria Naime Ikupu, the inaugural Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly and former Deputy Governor of the National Capital District.

Ikupu, a prominent Motu Koitabu leader and long-standing advocate for indigenous rights, became the first Chairman of the Assembly following its establishment under the Motu Koita Assembly Act in 2007. The inaugural elections were held the following year 2008, where he was elected to lead the newly formed Assembly. He also served as Deputy to the NCD Governor during his tenure.

Ikupu was re-elected in 2013 but later stepped aside due to medical reasons. Despite leaving office, he continued to contribute to public life and remained a respected elder and influential figure among the Motu and Koitabu people.

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Defender of Indigenous Land and a Voice for Unity

Throughout his leadership, Ikupu was a steadfast defender of Motu and Koitabu customary land. In 2013, he warned that illegal squatting and land-grabbing were undermining the rights of indigenous landowners and called for unity among all clans in and around Port Moresby to address the growing issue of illegal settlements.

He consistently highlighted how the Motu Koita people had lost land through compulsory acquisitions, informal settlements, and illegal land-grabbing. Ikupu urged government authorities to uphold commitments to a full land audit to clarify the status of alienated land. His public advocacy reflected a deep commitment to protecting the cultural, social, and economic rights of the Motu and Koitabu people.

Ikupu also championed youth empowerment. During a 2010 presentation of the Urban Youth Employment Project, he emphasised that the program must benefit disadvantaged youth across Port Moresby regardless of ethnicity. He supported community awareness efforts, translated information into the Motu language, and ensured accessibility for local communities—demonstrating his belief that education and opportunity were essential for future generations.

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Statement from the Motu Koita Chairman

Motu Koita Assembly Chairman Hon. Russell Simon Wavik said:

“Late Big Bro Miria Naime Ikupu has been my running mate in many elections we contested together since 1997.
I have so much respect for him.

At one time I even offered to step down and support him, as he was always ahead of me.

I believe true honour must be given to those who truly deserve it.
From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of family and the people of Motu Koita East and West, he truly earns my deepest respect and honour.

My deepest condolences to his children and family.
I salute him and bid him farewell, my Big Brother M.N.I.
Rest in peace.”

29/10/2025

44th Pacific Island Law Officers' Network - PILON Annual Meeting

Motu Koita Cultural Ambassador and the Hiri Hanenamo 2025 Miss Louisa Margaret Udia officially welcomed delegates to the 44th Pacific Island Law Officers' Network - PILON Annual Meeting, on Tuesday 28th October 2025, APEC Haus.

Senior law officials from nineteen (19) Pacific Island countries, including Australia and New Zealand were warmly greeted with a ‘Welcome to Land’ chant by the Hiri Hanenamo accompanied by traditional performance from the Hetura Cultural group, representing the traditional landowners of Port Moresby.

The event involved gift presentation to the outgoing chair, Solicitor General of Fiji Ropate Green Lomavatu while ushering the new Chair, Attorney General of Papua New Guinea, Dr. Eric Kwa.

Under the banner “A Safe, Secure & Peaceful Pacific", the week-long forum commenced with a keynote speech from Hon James Marape, MP who called on law officers in the Pacific to uphold the rule of law and to protect Pacific states from outside threats.

27/09/2025

🌺PEROVETA DAY 2025 OFFICIAL PROGRAM 🌺

The Motu Koita Assembly proudly presents the first of its kind Peroveta Day – a vibrant showcase of Peroveta & Youth Performances. 🎶✨

📅 Sunday, 28th September 2025
📍 Sir Hubert Murray Stadium
🕕 6AM – 12PM

For more information can contact Dika on (+675) 7870 2336
Women's

22/09/2025

🌺PEROVETA DAY 2025 is here! 🌺

The Motu Koita Assembly proudly presents the first of its kind Peroveta Day – a vibrant showcase of Peroveta & Youth Performances. 🎶✨

📅 Sunday, 28th September 2025
📍 Sir Hubert Murray Stadium
🕕 6AM – 12PM

👉 Don’t miss the Peroveta March starting at 6AM from Ela Beach (Era Kone) to the stadium, followed by the official program at 7AM.

Enjoy cultural performances, youth talent, and support local vendors with delicious food, arts & crafts, and SME stalls. 🥥🍴🎨
Let’s come together to celebrate our culture, our youth, and our independence spirit! 💛🖤❤️

Contact your ward councillors to register your performance
All Vendors interested in setting up an SME Booth can enquire with your Women's Rep.

For more information can contact Dika on (+675) 7870 2336
Women's

Address

Level 1, City Hall Annex, Waigani
Port Moresby
121

Telephone

+67582253366

Website

http://www.paclii.org/

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