PAPUA New Guinea’s acclaimed music group Wame Blood has been hailed for representing the nation at the 2026 Pacific Music Awards in Auckland, New Zealand, despite not receiving an award.
Prime Minister James Marape described the group’s nomination as a significant achievement for Papua New Guinea’s growing creative industry and said its participation on one of the Pacific’s premier music stages was a victory for the country.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Wame Blood for representing Papua New Guinea with pride, dignity and professionalism at the Pacific Music Awards,” Marape said.
“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.”
Marape commended Wame Blood for using music to showcase Papua New Guinea’s culture, stories and identity while building valuable 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.
The prime minister also acknowledged the band’s message of gratitude to its supporters, including the Papua New Guinean community in Auckland, sponsors and partners who helped make the journey possible.
“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,” Marape said.
He said the creative economy had enormous potential to generate employment, promote tourism, strengthen national identity and create opportunities for talented Papua New Guineans to reach international audiences.
Marape encouraged other young Papua New Guineans with talents in music, film, literature and the performing arts to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
“Our artists are ambassadors for Papua New Guinea. Every performance, every song and every achievement helps tell our country’s story to the world,” he said.
“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.”
