Morobe Governor and Provincial Executive Council (PEC) Chairman, Rainbo Paita, has announced the appointment of a new Morobe Tourism Authority Board following a decision of the Provincial Executive Council during its Sam Sewe Meeting No. 04/2026 held on 23–24 April 2026.
The decision formally revokes the previous Board established under Resolution 02/2023 and appoints a new Board for a three-year term to guide the strategic development of tourism across Morobe Province.
Governor Paita said the appointment reflects the Provincial Government’s commitment to revitalizing the tourism sector and positioning Morobe as Papua New Guinea’s premier tourism destination.
“Morobe is blessed with rich cultural heritage, pristine natural attractions, historic sites, world-renowned trekking routes, and vibrant communities. This new Board brings together experienced individuals from the tourism, business, transport, aviation, agriculture, cultural, and hospitality sectors to unlock the full potential of our province,” Governor Paita said.
The newly appointed Morobe Tourism Authority Board comprises:
- Jemmima Colbran – Chairperson (Cultural, Entertainment and Hospitality Industry, Farmers and Settlers Association)
- Donna Harvey Hall – Deputy Chairperson (Bulolo Chamber of Commerce)
- Pisai Gumar – Member (Huon Region, Colonial History)
- David Boase – Member (Fisika Region, Church History)
- Steven Watta – Member (Anga Region, Culture and Trekking)
- Tim Rogers – Member (Sports Tourism)
- Peter Boyd – Member (Tours Promotion and Business)
- Manager, National Development Bank – Ex Officio Member (Credit and Tourism Revolving Fund)
- Zoe Harrison – Member (Transport and Logistics)
- Manager, Air Niugini – Member (Airline Industry)
- Aaron Bimbo – Member (Nominee of Portfolio Chairman)
- President, Bulolo Agriculture Show – Member (Fairs and Festivals)
- President, Morobe Agriculture Society – Member (Fairs and Festivals)
Governor Paita said the Board has been tasked with supporting tourism promotion, cultural preservation, eco-tourism development, sports tourism, hospitality growth, and investment attraction throughout Morobe Province.
“The tourism industry has the capacity to create jobs, empower local communities, support small and medium enterprises, preserve our cultural identity, and generate significant economic opportunities for our people. This Board will play a critical role in shaping that future,” he said.
The Governor further stated that the Morobe Provincial Government will provide policy support and ensure tourism development remains a priority within the Province’s broader economic transformation agenda.
“We are committed to investing in tourism infrastructure, promoting our unique destinations, strengthening partnerships with the private sector, and attracting both domestic and international visitors. Tourism is a key pillar of Morobe’s vision for sustainable economic growth.”
Governor Paita congratulated all members appointed to the Board and encouraged them to work collaboratively with government agencies, local-level governments, landowners, communities, and the private sector to advance tourism development across the province.
“Together, we can showcase Morobe to the nation and the world while creating lasting benefits for our people and future generations.”
