Kongo Coffee boss urges mindset shift after 50 years of Independence
Managing Director of Kongo Coffee Limited, Jerry Kapka, has called for self-reliance and mindset change among the people of Chuave, urging them to stop depending on government handouts and take ownership of their development.
Speaking during a 50th Independence anniversary celebration last Friday with the four clans of Chuave LLG along the Highlands Highway, Mr Kapka challenged the community to reflect on the past five decades and commit to a future of independence through hard work.
"Let’s not wait for government handouts," Kapka said.
"For the past 50 years, we’ve been sitting and waiting. It’s time to stand up, work our land, and be truly independent. We must help ourselves if we want to see real change."
Mr Kapka, a prominent local coffee exporter, emphasized that true national development begins at the grassroots level, where individuals and communities must take initiative.
He encouraged the people to see Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary not just as a celebration, but as a turning point.
"We’ve come a long way and faced many challenges, but we've also achieved a lot. This milestone should inspire us to think differently and act responsibly," he said.
To mark the occasion, KCL donated 50 cartons of lamb flaps, 10 cartons of chicken, and K2,000 in cash to each of the Kingstar, Emerian, KMR, and K4K villages of Chuave District.
Mr Kapka said the company had initially planned a larger celebration, but due to time constraints, opted to sponsor community feasts and bring families and friends together in local settings.
"As a local company, we wanted to give back to the people and celebrate this important national milestone in a meaningful way," he added.