Papua New Guinea Kerema (Gulf) History



Papua New Guinea Kerema is a small town located in the Gulf Province of Papua New Guinea. It is the capital of the Kerema District and is situated at the mouth of the Kerema River. The town has a long and rich history that dates back to the early 19th century when the first Europeans arrived in the area.

In 1875, the British explorer, Captain James Cook, visited the area and named it Kerema. He described the area as a “magnificent bay with a wide and deep entrance”. The area was also visited by the German explorer, Dr. Otto Finsch, who named the river Kerema.

In the late 19th century, the British established a trading post in Kerema. This trading post was used as a base for the British to trade with the local people, mainly for copra and other local produce. The trading post was also used to help the British to gain a foothold in the area.

In the early 20th century, the Australian government took over the administration of the area from the British. The Australian government created the Kerema District in 1924 and Kerema became the administrative centre.

During World War II, the Japanese occupied Kerema and the surrounding area. The Japanese used Kerema as a base to launch attacks against the allied forces in the area. After the war, the Australian government resumed control of the area and Kerema continued to be the administrative centre for the district.

In the 1970s, Kerema experienced rapid growth. The population of the town increased significantly and the infrastructure was improved. The town was connected to the rest of the country by road and air.

Kerema is a vibrant and bustling town today. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests and diverse wildlife. The town is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Kerema Cultural Centre, which showcases the unique culture and history of the area.

Kerema is an important part of Papua New Guinea’s history and is an important part of the country’s identity. The town has a rich and diverse cultural heritage and is a great place to explore and experience the unique culture of Papua New Guinea.