On April 26, at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby, Prime Minister James Marape attended the official launch ceremony of the commemorative 50 Kina banknote and 50 Toea coin. In a powerful address, he emphasized their deep symbolic importance.
“Kina and Toea are not just mediums of exchange—they are symbols of our national spirit and economic independence,” Marape declared. He thanked the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) for its thoughtful preparation for the event and noted the launch as a significant milestone in celebration of PNG’s upcoming 50th anniversary of independence.
In his speech, Marape paid tribute to the founding fathers of the nation. He emotionally recalled the difficult early years of independence and extended his highest respect to Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and the late Sir Julius Chan, calling them “giants” of the nation and foundational figures who united hundreds of tribes and over 830 languages into one country.
“Our history did not begin in 1975,” Marape emphasized. He highlighted the fact that the ancestors of Papua New Guinea were skilled navigators and agriculturalists, with established trade systems and cultural confidence long before colonization. Thus, Kina and Toea are not merely currency—they represent the inheritance of a rich and ancient civilization.
In today’s increasingly contested international landscape, where global powers compete for influence, small nations must fight harder to stand tall. Marape stated resolutely: “Kina and Toea symbolize our national aspirations and are markers of our economic sovereignty.”
He also revealed plans to feature the image of the late Sir Julius Chan on a new 100 Kina banknote in the future, in honor of his foundational contributions to PNG’s financial system. This initiative, Marape said, reflects both a respect for history and a source of inspiration for future generations.
The Prime Minister urged all citizens to draw strength and unity from the symbolism of Kina and Toea, and to embrace self-reliance. He stressed the need to increase domestic production and reduce reliance on imports: “Let the value of the Kina be truly built upon the strength of our own labor.”
He also called on the nation to leverage its geographic advantage as a bridge between the Pacific Islands Forum and ASEAN, and to actively integrate into regional and global markets. “We must not remain passive observers—we must claim our rightful place and interests.”
The newly released commemorative 50 Kina banknote and 50 Toea coin reflect strong elements of national pride and identity. The 50 Kina note features a blue orchid and the world’s largest butterfly—the Queen Alexandra’s birdwing. Above them soars the iconic bird-of-paradise, symbolizing the nation’s boundless aspirations for the future.
The 50 Toea coin prominently features the national flag, a design originally created by a 15-year-old girl on the eve of independence—representing the youthful passion and resolve of PNG’s people to build a nation of their own.
In her remarks, Bank of Papua New Guinea Governor Elizabeth Genia said, “Having our own currency is a key step toward true independence. This is not only political independence, but economic self-reliance.” She reaffirmed the central bank’s role as the guardian of the national currency and architect of the financial future, pledging to fulfill its mission with unwavering commitment.
She also highlighted the central bank’s Vision 2025, which aims to continue modernizing the financial system, ensuring that financial services are accessible to every citizen and fueling stronger internal economic momentum.
This launch event was a heartfelt call from both the political and financial institutions of Papua New Guinea to its people: to strive for economic strength, cultural confidence, historical awareness, and a hopeful future.
As Marape concluded, he expressed gratitude for the support of bilateral partners around the world, but he emphasized even more that Papua New Guinea’s path to prosperity ultimately depends on its own hands, its own wisdom, and its own determination.
A single coin. A single banknote. Yet they carry the dreams and future of a nation 50 years in the making—and awaken the strength of a diverse people moving forward together.
“Having our own currency is a key step toward true independence. This is not only political independence, but economic self-reliance.”.
Elizabeth Genia
