Tumbuna Pikinini Time shines at 20th ‘Garamut na Mambu’Festival
The vibrant sounds of garamut drums and the rhythmic sway of traditional dances filled the air as the 20th Garamut na Mambu Festival entered its second day, spotlighting Tumbuna Pikinini Time, a cultural showcase dedicated to engaging schoolchildren in the rich traditions of East Sepik and Papua New Guinea.
Coinciding with the nation's 50th Independence Anniversary, the festival has taken on deeper significance this year, serving not only as a celebration but also as a call to action for cultural preservation.
The East Sepik Provincial Administration, the event’s major sponsor, has emphasized the importance of passing down heritage and identity to the next generation.
Executive Manager of the Culture and Arts Division Winnie Bengo said preservation of culture is important.
“For the next 50 years, we should ensure our culture must not be forgotten,” Culture and Arts Division
Tumbuna Pikinini Time brought together schools from across the province, with students performing traditional songs, dances, and storytelling that reflect the diverse customs of East Sepik’s many communities.
Elders and cultural leaders guided the children, sharing ancestral knowledge and practices that have shaped the region’s identity.
The festival grounds were alive with color and energy, as stalls displayed bilums, carvings, and woven crafts, while local musicians and dancers captivated audiences with performances rooted in centuries-old traditions.
As the nation marks half a century of independence, the Garamut na Mambu Festival stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage and the vital role young people play in keeping it alive.
The 20th Garamut na Mambu Festival’s second day, Tumbuna Pikinini Time, celebrated East Sepik and PNG culture through school participation.
Meanwhile, coinciding with PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the event emphasized cultural preservation, with Winnie Bengo urging that traditions be safeguarded for the next 50 years.
The festival blended education, performance, and heritage in a vibrant display of identity and pride.