News and Public Notices

Bougainville has marked two significant dates in its political history — the Bougainville Peace Agreement Commemoration Day on August 30 and Bougainville Independence Patriotism Day on September 1 — with commemorations reflecting on its journey from conflict and division to peace, unity and the continued journey towards independence. 

The two occasions, separated by just two days, provided an opportunity for Bougainvilleans across the three regions to reflect on the sacrifices of the past, the achievements of the peace process and the political journey that continues to shape Bougainville’s future.

In Arawa, Central Bougainville, ABG President His Excellency Ishmael Toroama delivered a strong message of unity and patriotism during the Independence Patriotism Day celebrations.

“1st September is a patriotic day, a day where it recognizes each and everyone of us on our political journey – see this day as you own it, be patriotic and stand together, “he said. “I stand here and salute those that have gone and those that are alive here so that we remember those that fought.”

President Toroama said the commemoration was an opportunity for Bougainvilleans to remember the patriotic leaders who stood up for Bougainville’s independence, noting that the 97.7 per cent referendum vote was clear evidence of the enduring desire for self-determination.

He further reiterated that his government remains united in pursuing Bougainville’s aspirations for independence, while emphasising the responsibility of the younger generation to carry the political journey forward.

“Today’s leadership lies with the young generation and it will remain so. Bougainville Patriotism Day is one pillar that recognizes all the work we have done,” he said. “Bougainville is standing on another pillar, another stepping stone that gives the strong political and economical recognition that we are participating.”

President Toroama also acknowledged the contribution of business houses across Bougainville to the development of the region’s economy, as well as the contributions of Bougainvillean men and women.

The celebrations in Arawa was part of wider Independence Patriotism Day commemorations held across North, Central and South Bougainville.

September 1 commemorates September 1, 1975, when the Bougainville flag was raised for the first time and a Universal Declaration of Independence was made.

Although the declaration went unrecognised internationally, its significance has remained with Bougainvilleans.

Speaking at the Independence Patriotism Day celebration in Buka, ABG Minister for Infrastructure, the Hon. Patrick Nisira, said the events of 51 years ago planted the foundations of a continuing aspiration for self-determination.

“The declaration went unrecognized internationally, but amongst us, the seed was already planted,” Minister Nisira said.

He said the declaration had demonstrated a strong sense of unity among Bougainvilleans — a spirit that continues today.

“That day marked a strong sense of unity amongst Bougainvilleans 51 years ago. Today, we stand here in that same spirit of unity, but stronger, as we prepare to pass the final hurdle of our political process,” he said.

The Buka celebration also featured a special address by Mrs Marilyn Havini, the designer of the official Bougainville flag, first raised during Bougainville’s 1975 declaration.

The Independence Patriotism Day commemorations followed the Bougainville Peace Agreement Commemoration Day, which began at dawn on August 30 at Bel Isi Park in Buka, marking the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement 25 years ago.

The occasion provided an opportunity for Bougainvilleans to reflect on the significance of the peace process and its implementation since the end of the conflict.

The Bougainville Peace Agreement remains a significant milestone in Bougainville’s modern history and is widely regarded as one of the world’s successful examples of a negotiated peace process.

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