Celebrating 50 years of PNG's independence: reflections and hopes for the future
As Papua New Guinea marks its 50th anniversary of independence, we celebrate the vibrant nation it is today and reflect on its people, culture and journey. For Allens, the milestone is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on our long association with PNG, our shared achievements and the responsibility we carry into the future.
Our relationship with PNG dates back to the early twentieth century, and over the decades, we have witnessed, and been privileged to support, the nation through periods of profound growth and transformation. From landmark resource projects to the evolving landscape of local and international investment, our work in PNG has always been guided by a commitment to integrity, collaboration and sustainable progress.
We recently asked Port Moresby colleagues Partner Kenneth Imako, Associate Markwell Makap and Legal Secretary Phyllis Taian to share what this golden jubilee means to them and their hopes for Papua New Guinea's future.
Kenneth Imako, Partner
For me, this milestone is both a celebration and a reality check. We’ve come a long way as a nation, our resilience, our culture and our people are things to be proud of.
This anniversary is a chance to pause and ask: what kind of country do we want for the next 50 years? For me, the answer starts with integrity. It means choosing transparency, refusing shortcuts and holding ourselves accountable. If we work together to strengthen systems and lead by example, we can turn independence from something we celebrate once a year into something we live every day.
Looking ahead, I want to see a PNG that is strong, inclusive and forward-looking. A country where opportunity isn’t limited by geography or circumstance. That means better infrastructure, stronger governance, and a real focus on education and technology so our young people can thrive in a changing world.
Allens has a big role to play in that journey. Whether it’s helping our clients navigate complex regulations, supporting reforms, or sharing insights on emerging issues, we can be part of building a PNG that works for everyone.
Phyllis Taian, Legal Secretary
My dad, now 77, still remembers the first Independence Day in 1975. My mum passed away two years after independence when I was still a toddler, and I was lovingly raised by my dad. His stories of that historic moment taught me that independence is about standing strong even through challenges and finding strength in our communities.
Twenty-eight years in the legal fraternity, I've seen how independence opened doors for Papua New Guineans to shape a legal system that reflects who we are. Supporting some of our nation's top legal minds has been a blessing and a privilege.
Today, working at Allens, I'm proud to contribute to a team that upholds those same values of integrity, service and nation-building.
Now, watching my children celebrate Independence Day with their school, I feel hopeful for the next 50 years. Their generation will carry forward a proud, diverse and creative PNG, one that continues to grow strong with every step.
Happy 50th anniversary of independence, Papua New Guinea!
Markwell Makap, Associate
To me, PNG's 50th anniversary of independence is a time of celebration, and more so, a time to reflect, refocus and plan. This momentous occasion in our nation’s history is, foremost, a time to celebrate a story of resilience, growth and cultural richness.
As a junior lawyer in Papua New Guinea, the anniversary holds special meaning for me. My profession and the career that I am embarking on has been made possible by the foundations laid on 16 September 1975.
Independence has opened doors to education and professional development for many young Papua New Guineans like myself. I studied in educational institutions that exist because of PNG’s investment in its human resources and its legal system for the last 50 years.
Through independence, I get to be part of a legal system designed to facilitate and deal with issues unique to PNG. The legal system, once controlled by colonial powers, is now in PNG's hands. It is headed by a PNG chief justice with local judges, lawyers and academics who understand the PNG culture, challenges and vision.
Most importantly, independence gives me a sense of purpose. I am not just practicing law, I am contributing to a justice system that serves my country. I have the opportunity to advocate for my people, protect human rights, and promote good governance in a nation that is yet to reach its full potential.
Looking ahead
As we celebrate this golden jubilee of independence with pride and optimism for what lies ahead, Allens remains committed to sustainable growth for PNG, through advancing the economy, supporting PNG infrastructure projects and fostering partnerships that empower communities.