The city of Port Moresby is set to take centre stage on March 24 as it hosts the opening of the 7th Pacific Urban Forum, an event that will coincide with National Women’s Day, marking an important moment for the country’s capital.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop said the dual celebration presents a unique opportunity to highlight the role of women in the city’s informal economy while showcasing everyday urban life in Papua New Guinea.

As part of the event, women from across the city, particularly market vendors; will be mobilized to set up stalls along the beachfront, offering delegates a firsthand experience of how people live and trade in the capital. 

“This will give visitors an authentic image of life in Port Moresby, especially within our market spaces.”

A key event of the occasion will be the official launch of a 10-year Women’s Economic Empowerment Program, organized by the National Capital District Commission.

The program is specifically targeted at strengthening market systems and supporting vendors, who form a substantial part of the city’s informal economy.

Governor Parkop emphasized that markets and vendors will play a central role in the city’s development agenda, describing them as critical to both urban and national growth.

He added that launching the strategy during the 7th Pacific Urban Forum allows Papua New Guinea to share its approach with other Pacific nations, including visiting ministers and representatives from regional urban centres.