Cyclists journey with a message of peace to commemorate 50 years of PNG independence
A group of 11 cyclists from the Wewak Cycling Movement in East Sepik Province has embarked on a remarkable journey to promote peace and unity across Papua New Guinea as the country approaches its 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16th.
Their four week cycling tour began in Madang and took them through various provinces, including Lae, Goroka, and yesterday, arrived at Kundiawa in Simbu Province.
They will continue their ride today to Jiwaka, Western Highlands, Southern Highlands, Enga, Hela, and Gulf Province before reaching Port Moresby.
Led by President Jethro Ani, the cyclists aim to spread a message of unity, peace, and love, drawing inspiration from PNG's founding fathers, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, and a few others who united the country's diverse tribes and languages.
Mr Ani said, this initiative aims to promote peace, understanding, and learning, showing how small actions can lead to big changes in the country.
" For many of the riders, this cause is personal to them. The founding father is their true inspiration, who united the 700 languages and different tribes as one people and one nation," he said.
He said their reason is to let people know that despite being from coastal or Highlands, PNG is one, and the spirit of unity, peace, and love must celebrate all throughout the nation.
He said it was also the club initiative to take to the Okuk Highway with T-shirt printed with the 50th independence anniversary logo and face of the late Grand Chief in honour of his life service to the country
Mr Jetro said that as a cyclist, the only way to raise awareness or bring an independence message to PNG is through cycling, and they are proud to take the longest journey they can to make it the first of its kind in the country.
" Eleven of us are in this together, and we believe in ourselves that we will reach our destination in time. We want to ensure that the story of our Founding Fathers is not forgotten; we considered how we can actively shape a culture of remembrance," he said.
The cyclists' journey is a testament to the country's spirit of unity and resilience, echoed by Prime Minister James Marape's call for unity and reflection as PNG marks its Golden Jubilee.