Ricky Mitio's book for the ages

In this year of Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary of Independence, there is no person more qualified to reflect on the highs and lows than Ricky Mitio.

I hope you enjoy reading this autobiography of a man who is the son of a tribal warrior born in the Stone Age who later became a pioneer evangelist of the Lutheran Church despite being completely illiterate. Ricky Mitio was among the first people in the country to be educated, learn a foreign language, work for this new means of exchange called money, travel to all districts of the country, and explore five continents of the world. 

Ricky Mitio’s name is synonymous with the coffee industry in PNG. When he claims in this book that he is the Papa bilong PNG kopi, he is right. No one can dispute this or take it away from him. It will be his legacy until the end of the world.

(From Ovu ga'hoe! Foreword by Tiri Kuimbakul)
Ricky's book is due for release in March 2025. 

More than just a bunch of words

Ricky Mitio's autobiography contains brilliant drawings by acclaimed PNG artist David Takus, pictured here putting the finishing touches to some of his work. David Takus is a graduate of the UPNG National Arts School (1984) and a former Graphic Designer and Printery Supervisor at the University of Goroka. He is now a freelance artist based in Goroka.

Ricky Mitio said: "It is an absolute honour to have David Takus contribute to my book. David's drawings are well in tune with my personal sense of humour!"   

More than Ricky Mitio

One thing that stands out about Ricky Mitio's autobiography is that it isn't all about himself. He pays tribute to those who helped shape his life. Family, Church and work colleagues feature prominently in his book.

Ricky praises God and Papua New Guinea because nothing would have been possible without both. 

In Ricky's book, you will read first-hand accounts from family members and friends as they give their own opinion of Ricky Mitio.

"I am recounting my involvement in the coffee industry and highlighting my personal and professional interactions with Chief Mitio to impress upon you that I know the man whose book you are reading." 

(Ovu ga'hoe! Foreword by Tiri Kuimbakul)

"Every single time he told at least one bit of his story, I would shed tears and I always, always think how lucky I am to have been given the best that could ever be given to mould a child." 

(Karina Mitio, daughter) 

PNG companies leading the way

Ricky Mitio acknowledges the generous support of the following companies who have made the publication of his book possible:

  • Coffee Industry Corporation (CIC) Limited
  • Women's Micro Bank Limited (aka Mama Bank)
  • Farmset Limited
  • KKB Limited 

Thank you for your belief, passion and pride in ensuring that the modern history of
Papua New Guinea is told and shared forever. 

More about Ovu ga'hoe!

  • The title is from the Kamano language, meaning 'I will not go!'
  • Extent: 328pp with 43 chapters + front matter + appendices
  • The book also includes a 6pp Glossary of Traditional Terms 
  • Footnotes are used throughout the book for further reading, and for the information of those not familiar with Papua New Guinea
  • Format: 6" x 9" / hard case with fabric cloth and gold foil printing + dust jacket
  • ISBN: 978-0-6486105-5-7
  • Author: Ricky Mitio / Editor: Glenn Armstrong
  • Publisher: TLA Media Ltd (PNG) / Printer: Regal Printing Ltd (Hong Kong)
  • Release date: March 2025 

The art of making books

The publisher of Ricky Mitio’s autobiography, TLA Media Ltd (PNG), has announced a partnership with Regal Printing (Hong Kong) to provide creative book and printing solutions in Papua New Guinea. 

With decades of combined experience and knowledge, the two companies share a passion for bespoke book and print production.

Ricky Mitio's Ovu ga'hoe! is just one example of how a book can be a powerful statement of success, leading the way for other aspiring authors and organisations in Papua New Guinea.

 

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