Port Moresby

Port Moresby, also known as Pot Mosbi, is the dynamic capital and largest metropolis of Papua New Guinea. Second only to Jayapura outside of the more industrialized areas of Australia and New Zealand, this city, sometimes dubbed as Pom metropolis, is a sizable metropolitan center in the southwest Pacific. Port Moresby is strategically located on the southwestern coast of the Papuan Peninsula, which is part of New Guinea.

From the second half of the nineteenth century, the city has developed as a trading hub. During World War II, its strategic location became a focal point for Imperial Japanese forces mostly targeting it between 1942 and 1943. The Japanese meant to use it as a staging ground and aviation base in order to sever Australia’s links to the Americas and Southeast Asia. Having lived in Port Moresby for millennia, the Motu-Koitabu people add to the town’s historical significance. Discovering the site in 1873 to commemorate his father, Admiral Sir Fairfax Moresby, the city was named for Royal Navy Captain John Moresby.

At the 2011 census Port Moresby had 364,145 residents; unofficial estimates suggest a rise to 383,000 by 2020. Port Moresby, although close to Central Province, has independent jurisdiction and established the National Capital District. Representing the Motu and Koitabu people, traditional landowners, the Motu Koita Assembly guarantees that local governance hears their points of view.

The tropical savanna habitat of Port Moresby results in mostly constant temperatures all year round. With 898.8 millimetres of average annual rainfall, the city has the lowest in New Guinea. The dry season runs opposite the wet season, which runs December through May. This climate pattern is influenced by the southeasterly trade winds and the surrounding high mountains, which also help to greatly lower temperatures all during the dry season.

For most of Port Moresby’s transportation needs, buses and privately run taxis meet needs. The poor national road system makes aircraft crucial in connecting the city to the rest of the nation. Largest in Papua New Guinea, Jacksons International Airport is a major center for both domestic and foreign travel. Emphasizing its strategic relevance, the airport also hosts the Papua New Guinea Defense Force Air Wing.

Two-thirds of PNG’s export earnings come from its rich natural resources. Notwithstanding this abundance, underdevelopment has historically allowed foreign organizations to profit from these resources. A turning point occurred when the United States established an oil company in 2004, greatly raising PNG’s export income potential. While Singapore, Japan, and China have helped PNG grow its businesses, Australia has been a great ally providing significant aid.

With new residences, office towers, shopping malls, and commercial buildings changing the skyline, Port Moresby has undergone notable urban growth. Modern commercial centres, restaurants, and condominiums have revitalised the riverfront area. Especially for the 2015 South Pacific Games and the 2016 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup, the city has greatly upgraded its sporting facilities. Organizing the 2018 APEC summit attracted many world leaders and hastened development by bringing Port Moresby front and center for global attention.