One of the busiest bus stop area’s located in the heart of Morobe’s capital city, Lae, for the first time after four decades was decorated beautifully with PNG’s Red, Black and Gold colors, welcoming the celebration of the country’s 48th Independence Anniversary Celebration on the 16th of September 2023.
This was initiated by the Kumul Metropolitan Services, a registered organization established by unemployed and dedicated youths in Lae led by Ezra Tali, a young father of one.
In an interview with Inside PNG, Mr. Tali said the original purpose of forming the group was to create space and give hope to young men and women to address issues concerning them and their Metropolitan city of Lae.
On 15th September 2023, the eve of the 48th Independence Anniversary Day, the team worked diligently throughout the night to clean up the town, ensuring a pristine atmosphere for the Independence celebrations.
The following morning, under the leadership of George Mal, they beautifully decorated the main bus stop in town with PNG colours.
“Maintaining a secure environment was our utmost importance. We also have youths from Lae’s Hanta area who joined and helped us the youths from the town area to make this year’s Independence Anniversary Day Celebration special.” Tali said, “Our job is voluntary and we the youths of Lae Top-Town are united to help the responsible authorities, especially the Lae Metropolitan Police Command in ensuring a safe and clean environment for all citizens.”Group leader,” Mr. Tali said,
During the celebrations on 16th September, security was provided to Lae residents and visitors by the Kumul Metropolitan Services in collaboration with Lae’s Metro Police Reservists throughout the day.
After the celebration, the Kumul Metropolitan Service team and the Police Reservists headed by Officer In Charge Sergeant Joseph Wilson, gathered to commemorate the Independence Anniversary and their partnership of almost seven months.
Kumul Metropolitan Services Team Leader, Ezra Tali said the youths have been working hand in hand with the Lae Reservist policeman to maintain cleanliness and safety in the bus stop area where we are stationed under a blue tent called ‘Unity Tent’.
“The tent at the Bus Stop not only serves as our shelter, but is also a SME area that helps sustain us through the little sales of sausages, bananas, soft drinks, and water to all residents and visitors. We are extremely grateful for the continued support from everyone who buys from our tent. Your contribution enables us to carry on with our important work to help police ensure a safe, clean and healthy town.,” Tali said.
The youths called on the general public to be mindful of their rubbish when entering and leaving the Top-Town area. They also called on other youths in Lae to unite and take ownership in making Lae a better place for all.
