Late Kanekane praised, farewelled

 ONE of the most popular journalists in Papua New Guinea was yesterday praised in a thanksgiving service in his memory. 

Joe Kanekane, 44, rose from a service station pump operator to the heights of journalism. 

His remarkable achievements included directorship of the PNG Law and Justice Sector Secretariat (PNG LJSS), his sister, Josephine Kanekane said in her eulogy at St Joseph’s Hall in Port Moresby.

She told the packed hall in Boroko, Joe’s death was “a great loss” to PNG, the media industry, non-governmental organisations and law enforcement agencies.

It was a great loss too, to his home province of Southern Highlands, the Imbonggu district, Kowangil village, relatives, three wives and seven children.

“He has left a legacy that will be remembered for a very long time,” Josephine said.

“I hope one of his children will follow their father’s footsteps. I will miss you forever. May your soul rest in eternal peace – and goodbye.

“Hard work and determination characterised this strong, loving father, husband, tribesman and colleague,” she said.

“He had a passion for journalism when he was a child. 

“I recall my brother Peter telling me a short story about Joe impersonating Justin Kili, who was one of the radio announcers of the FM Radio – now FM100.

“He would obtain a newspaper and read as if he was reading (the news) on the FM Radio station.”

Justin Kili was emcee at the memorial service, which was attended by chief executive officers, NGOs, the city’s journalism fraternity, the Law and Justice sector, the PNG Censorship Board and the Scouts Association of PNG.

Kanekane was president of the Pacific Islands Press and Media Council and president of the Media Council of PNG. He was attached to the following as:

• Chairman ICRAF;
• Co-founder of UPNG MBA Alumni Society;
• Member of CARITAS PNG;
• Member of PNG Reserve Constabulary and a village tribal leader.

Kanekane died of a heart attack at Tabubil General Hospital on July 14.