Prime Minister James Marape has congratulated Papua New Guinean music group Wame Blood for representing the country at the 2026 Pacific Music Awards in Auckland, New Zealand this week.
Although Wame Blood did not win an award, PM Marape described the group’s nomination and participation among leading Pacific musicians as a significant achievement for Papua New Guinea’s growing creative industry.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Wame Blood for representing Papua New Guinea with pride, dignity and professionalism at the Pacific Music Awards,” PM Marape said in a statement yesterday.
“Being nominated alongside some of the Pacific’s finest musicians is itself a remarkable achievement. “
“It shows that Papua New Guinean music is gaining recognition beyond our shores and that our artists are capable of competing on the regional and global stage.”
PM Marape said Wame Blood had used music to showcase PNG’s culture, stories and identity while building relationships within the international music industry.
“Our music, like our art, culture and traditions, is part of who we are as a nation. Wame Blood has demonstrated that our unique Melanesian identity has a place on the world stage, and I encourage them to continue pursuing excellence,” he said.
PM Marape also acknowledged the Papua New Guinean community in Auckland, sponsors and partners who supported the group’s participation.
“It was my pleasure for the Government to support Wame Blood’s participation because investing in our creative industries is investing in our young people, our culture and our future,” he said.
He said the creative economy had significant potential to create employment, promote tourism, strengthen national identity and provide opportunities for talented Papua New Guineans to reach international audiences.
PM Marape encouraged young Papua New Guineans pursuing careers in music, film, literature and the performing arts to follow their ambitions with confidence and determination.
“Our artists are ambassadors for Papua New Guinea. Every performance, every song and every achievement help tell our country’s story to the world,” he said.
PM Marape said Wame Blood’s nomination should inspire other emerging artists to pursue excellence and take PNG’s creative talent to international platforms.
“I congratulate Wame Blood once again and wish them every success as they continue their musical journey. I have no doubt that this nomination is only the beginning of many greater achievements to come,” he said.