Tuesday 2 October 2012
Solomon tunes in Madang: Sharzy, Rushy and Funky
Our talented brothers from the Solomon Islands were in town recently to perform live at a night Club in Madang town.
Sharzy, Funky and Rushy have a very large following here in Madang, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific. Sharzy made his mark in PNG with songs like Lewa, the ever popular Solwara Meri, Getting over you and many others. Sharzy hit the No.1 Spot on Top20 Pacifique program. You can also follow his song on Youtube and download from Itunes, conditions do apply of course. Sharzy has been a long time visitor to PNG and has been featured alongside many other PNG artists.
Funky and Rushy also from the Solomon Islands have their Hit single featured on Youtube aswell; Love is Forever and Try. According to Solomon Star the duo brothers are back with their latest installment of groovy raggae beats, RnB and island music flavour, all mixed into their hot new album entitled "Love is forever".
The album was to be released some time early this year with the launching set in Honiara. The album "Love is forever" is the second one from the brothers and was recorded at studio Melanesia with Danny Faárodo.
"Love is forever" continues on where the brothers left off in their previous album "True Love" maintaining that upbeat and hyped up mood many of their fans love when listening to their songs. According to big brother and lead singer Floyd Manata a.k.a. "Funky", fans are going to enjoy this new album. Their style of music is basically more reggae and island tone, but with abit of RnB flavour mixed into their songs.
Funky said there are 12 songs in the album with two songs recorded in South and North Malaita languages. The album was made for with the aim that anyone from any age group can enjoy listening to their music.
http://www.hitlab.com/user/94850/funky-and-rushee
The artists were also accompanied by PNG's very own Twin Tribes, band members Manu on the keyboard, George on base guitar, one of PNG's best precusionist, Emmanuel Hakalitz and well know lead guitarist Michael Tamate who is also making a name for himself. Michael has already played alongside, Ocean, PNG born American who is based in Hawaii.
Twin Tribes on the Left and Right of Guitarist, Michael.
The artists visited last weekend on Friday and Saturday nights. Although there were many fans that wanted in, the night club owners charged a hefty gate fee of K70 per person.
Madang looks forward to DMP another new talented group out of the Solomon Islands set to hit the Madang night scene this weekend, 5th and 6th of October, 2012.
Wednesday 20 June 2012
Australia and New Zealand closley monitoring elections
Australia and New Zealand are closely monitoring the 2012 PNG National Elections throughout Papua New Guinea. They have officially deployed a team to monitor the elections as it happens.
On the one hand, this of course would be an expected strategic move to answer to the call of the PNG Government, as millions of Australian and New Zealand dollars have been poured into PNG over the years in terms of aid funding.
On the other hand the two power players of the Pacific have vested interests and of course feel that they have an 'obligation' to this young and developing nation.
Just this week Madang residents witnessed this 'helping hand'as Australian Defence Force Helicopters air lifted across Madang town, electoral boxes which have been deployed to remote parts of the province. Their presence has been at the request of the PNG Government, ensuring that a free, safe and fair election takes place.
Election time in Papua New Guinea has, as history has recorded been a very dangerous exercise in parts of the Highlands, with ballot boxes stolen in some cases and potential voters threatended to vote for a particular candidate.
It is comforting on the one hand to know that there will be a sense of security with the presence of Australian and New Zealand defence force personal, 250 in all. On the other, saddening that our Papua New Guineans continue to use money, guns and violence to persuade voters.
However, this is not a norm for the rest of the country. Polling in all other areas of PNG also takes place with ease and security.
Monday 4 June 2012
Rising statistics for breast and cervical cancer in Madang
As the famous saying goes, 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away', the same principles can be applied with positive attitudes to breast checks and Pap Smears. ' A breast check today keeps the doctor away '
Breast checks and Pap Smear tests have been made more affordable for a limited time only with help of the kind sponsorship of the Friends of Women Doctors in Madang (FWD). The "Early Detection" program currently facilitated through Natu Clinic in Madang, is the FWD reponse to the increasing statistics of Breast and Cervical cancer in Madang. FWD kindly funded a certain quota of women in Madang to have a routine check for any signs and symptons. The fee at Natu clininc normally costs around K80, however, FWD subsidised this fee, encouraging more women to go in and have the checks done at just K40.
Although this service has always been available to women in Madang for as long as I can remember, not all women have made use of it. It's important that I should discuss, perhaps, the underlying factors that come into perspective at this juncture. There are certain cultural aspects of PNG culture that prevent women from participating in organised health activities, and in this case its called the " Early Detection Program". Before we get to that, lets talk about the work of the newly founded group mentioned above.
Friends of Women Doctors (FWD) was purposely established to support the work of female doctors here in Madang and ultimately educate women old and young on lifestyle diseases.
In a statement issued by FWD, Breast and Cervical cancer still remains the most common cancers in the world. Thankfully, with the use of modern technology, progress made through better diagnostics, improved treament and more understanding of risk factors, women in Madang can be detected in the early stages and awareness is increased.
"timely education can empower women to make the best choices for their own health, maintain productivity and continue as caregivers for their families," said Jane Marshall, FWD Secretary.
Natu clinic is equipped with Pap Smear Test Kits from Australia, which has reduced the turnaround time for results for women. Once tested it only takes a week for women to have results back.
"Our association is seeking assistance and partnership to enable us to strengthen our strategies in the overall drive to improve women's health in Madang province and PNG as a whole."
FWD plans to;
The group will also improve the skills of health care professionals through further skills training within the province and also have this service available in the rural setting. It also aims to further collaborate with business houses and organisations to encourage women employees to participate the "Early Detection program". The data collected from the screenings can also be put towards the formulation of promoting womens health needs and monitoring in the Madang province.
Initial funding has been initiated by the Pacific MMI, Pathfinders International, Laer Builders and has enabled FWD to register as a non-profit association in PNG.
For further information you can contact , the chairlady, Mrs Sagi Seko in 72490938 or email sagilamseko@datec.net.pg or natuhsm@online.net.pg.
Donations can be made to Madang Women Doctors "One Kina Health Fund", Bank of South Pacific, BSP: 0088960 ACC: 1001751617.
Many women in PNG are simply afraid to get themselves checked because these checks require you to, and if I may say, strip to the bare necessities. It may be a humiliating process for some, because PNG women grow up within their families, villages and communities with the knowlegde that things of this nature, that is child birth, sex and the reproductive system, men, are only discussed with an elderly and more experienced mama (woman) from their area. These issues are only discussed within their culture or society where they are comfortable. For women to discuss these things with another women from another province or part of the country, there are some hesitations.
In some cultures of PNG, sex is tabu and rarely spoken of and so women's sexual health is rarely spoken of untill they (women) visit the next local health centre and find they have health problems.
FWD is inevitably trying to overcome barriers by initiating the "Early Detection Program" and by spreading awareness, women will overcome cultural barriers. Usually the reaction to such a check is 'Mi Sem ya' or in english I'm ashamed. There was a lady in the Madang market selling her daily crops for cash last week and was told to attend the screening, however, she refused and simply responded 'Me bisi, Me les ya' or 'I'm busy and I dont want to'. This is the indication of ignorance and lazyness in regards to cultural and attitudinal barriers of our own women. We found out later that she experienced servere abdominal pains and wasnt able to continue marketing her produce. Cases like the market lady are untraceable as women from the Highlands provinces are only in Madang town for very short periods of time, to sell fresh produce and travel out again. How do we convince them?
Better to get over your insecurities then suffer from possible cancer of the breast or cervix! By the end of it, you'll be wondering what all the fuss was about. If it involves saving ones life then all the better to be checked then to be sorry. Perhaps our madang women are comforted with the idea that female doctors and midwives at Natu Clinic are conducting the tests and therefore puts them at ease.
I lost a very dear friend to breast cancer and so I remain committed to the cause!
Breast checks and Pap Smear tests have been made more affordable for a limited time only with help of the kind sponsorship of the Friends of Women Doctors in Madang (FWD). The "Early Detection" program currently facilitated through Natu Clinic in Madang, is the FWD reponse to the increasing statistics of Breast and Cervical cancer in Madang. FWD kindly funded a certain quota of women in Madang to have a routine check for any signs and symptons. The fee at Natu clininc normally costs around K80, however, FWD subsidised this fee, encouraging more women to go in and have the checks done at just K40.
 |
| Get screening done today at Natu Clinic under the 'Early Detection Program' |
Friends of Women Doctors (FWD) was purposely established to support the work of female doctors here in Madang and ultimately educate women old and young on lifestyle diseases.
In a statement issued by FWD, Breast and Cervical cancer still remains the most common cancers in the world. Thankfully, with the use of modern technology, progress made through better diagnostics, improved treament and more understanding of risk factors, women in Madang can be detected in the early stages and awareness is increased.
"timely education can empower women to make the best choices for their own health, maintain productivity and continue as caregivers for their families," said Jane Marshall, FWD Secretary.
Natu clinic is equipped with Pap Smear Test Kits from Australia, which has reduced the turnaround time for results for women. Once tested it only takes a week for women to have results back.
"Our association is seeking assistance and partnership to enable us to strengthen our strategies in the overall drive to improve women's health in Madang province and PNG as a whole."
FWD plans to;
- Serve low-income, non-income, uninsured, and underserved women who lack access to vital medical education health services;
- Encourage early recognition of breast and cervical cancer through early screening;
- Promote public education through the "Women's Wellness Connection";
- Establish outreach programs to service women in rural areas;
- Establish a K1.00 health fund with Pacific MMI Insurance;
- Maintain a weekly 'radio doctor' with Radio Madang ( Sponsors needed)
- Promoting a monthly 'Wellness Clinic Day' for women.
- Commissioning the use of the latest technology in radiography;
 |
| Left - Dr Hannelly Taitarae and participants of the program. |
Initial funding has been initiated by the Pacific MMI, Pathfinders International, Laer Builders and has enabled FWD to register as a non-profit association in PNG.
For further information you can contact , the chairlady, Mrs Sagi Seko in 72490938 or email sagilamseko@datec.net.pg or natuhsm@online.net.pg.
Donations can be made to Madang Women Doctors "One Kina Health Fund", Bank of South Pacific, BSP: 0088960 ACC: 1001751617.
Many women in PNG are simply afraid to get themselves checked because these checks require you to, and if I may say, strip to the bare necessities. It may be a humiliating process for some, because PNG women grow up within their families, villages and communities with the knowlegde that things of this nature, that is child birth, sex and the reproductive system, men, are only discussed with an elderly and more experienced mama (woman) from their area. These issues are only discussed within their culture or society where they are comfortable. For women to discuss these things with another women from another province or part of the country, there are some hesitations.
In some cultures of PNG, sex is tabu and rarely spoken of and so women's sexual health is rarely spoken of untill they (women) visit the next local health centre and find they have health problems.
FWD is inevitably trying to overcome barriers by initiating the "Early Detection Program" and by spreading awareness, women will overcome cultural barriers. Usually the reaction to such a check is 'Mi Sem ya' or in english I'm ashamed. There was a lady in the Madang market selling her daily crops for cash last week and was told to attend the screening, however, she refused and simply responded 'Me bisi, Me les ya' or 'I'm busy and I dont want to'. This is the indication of ignorance and lazyness in regards to cultural and attitudinal barriers of our own women. We found out later that she experienced servere abdominal pains and wasnt able to continue marketing her produce. Cases like the market lady are untraceable as women from the Highlands provinces are only in Madang town for very short periods of time, to sell fresh produce and travel out again. How do we convince them?
Better to get over your insecurities then suffer from possible cancer of the breast or cervix! By the end of it, you'll be wondering what all the fuss was about. If it involves saving ones life then all the better to be checked then to be sorry. Perhaps our madang women are comforted with the idea that female doctors and midwives at Natu Clinic are conducting the tests and therefore puts them at ease.
 |
Far right- Sagilam Seko in pink, Chairman of the Friends of Women
Doctors and supporters of the program.
|
Thursday 31 May 2012
An abusive relationship is better than stigmatisation
Who in their right mind would disallow a young female child from continuing their education at a very tender age of 13 years, knowing full well that the opportunities for education are first of all;
scarse in the remote areas of Papua New Guinea; education is more of a priviledge than obligation.
That is, even in todays modern context we as Papua New Guineans are priviledged to have an education, due to the governments lack of services to rural areas and in accessibility.
Female children, when born into a family, are marginalised because they are girls and the male child is allowed to continue his education and become the future leader.
While absorbing all the above factors, I shall continue to tell you my story.
This week, I learnt from a women currently studying at an institution in Madang, that she disallowed a young girl to continue her primary education. The young girl was a student who attended a school in the Western province at which the woman is the current deputy headmistress.
Anyhow, the headmistress was asked to deal with a student who had missed a couple of days of school. When the female student had finally come into see the headmistress, she came to the meeting with her father to explain her situation.
The headmistess, Ruth George, began her interogation of Mary Samuel. Mary came to school badly beaten and had a black eye. Mrs George asked Mary who had beaten her. Mary's father immediately pipped up saying that he wasnt the perportrator.
Mrs George immediately asked Mary who had beaten her again. Mary lowered her head in shame and remorse and tried to find the right words to explain to the Mrs George what had happened.
"My boyfriend belted me up," Mary said.
Mrs George was taken aback at the confession that she had just heard and she continued to listened as Mary began to tell of her situation.
Mary was only 13, she had also just found out that she was pregnant and the boyfriend had beaten her for reasons unknown.
It turned out that Mrs George had decided to terminate the student from continuing her education, simply basing her decision on the stigmatisation of the school students and the small community at Oktedi Mining, in Tabubil, Western province. Mrs George told Mary that her classmates no longer wanted a pregnant girl to attend school with them. She also told Mary that it was her fault that she had got herself into such a situation and that through her wreckless behaviour, that she got pregnant and had unsafe sex. It was also her fault that she was now in an abusive relationship. Is this the kind of attitude we want to have towards our young girls. In parts of Africa, childhood marriages have been a long practiced tradition, and is slowly coming to an end because of the wonderful work of Child Rights activists to stop such a practise. Papua New Guinea is a free and democratic country where we are free to exercise our rights without fear. Or are we? Mrs George was happy to let Mary leave school, and go back to her abusive relationship.
Whats wrong with this pictutre? Several things.
As an educated woman and the head of a primary school from a rural setting. Mrs George has not only, violated some of the clauses of the Lukautim Pikinini Act,she has further marginalised the young girl, depriving her of the right to a better future.
Mrs George has indirectly told Mary that she is better off in an abusive relationship, than have an attempt at rebuilding her life.
scarse in the remote areas of Papua New Guinea; education is more of a priviledge than obligation.
That is, even in todays modern context we as Papua New Guineans are priviledged to have an education, due to the governments lack of services to rural areas and in accessibility.
Female children, when born into a family, are marginalised because they are girls and the male child is allowed to continue his education and become the future leader.
While absorbing all the above factors, I shall continue to tell you my story.
This week, I learnt from a women currently studying at an institution in Madang, that she disallowed a young girl to continue her primary education. The young girl was a student who attended a school in the Western province at which the woman is the current deputy headmistress.
Anyhow, the headmistress was asked to deal with a student who had missed a couple of days of school. When the female student had finally come into see the headmistress, she came to the meeting with her father to explain her situation.
The headmistess, Ruth George, began her interogation of Mary Samuel. Mary came to school badly beaten and had a black eye. Mrs George asked Mary who had beaten her. Mary's father immediately pipped up saying that he wasnt the perportrator.
Mrs George immediately asked Mary who had beaten her again. Mary lowered her head in shame and remorse and tried to find the right words to explain to the Mrs George what had happened.
"My boyfriend belted me up," Mary said.
Mrs George was taken aback at the confession that she had just heard and she continued to listened as Mary began to tell of her situation.
Mary was only 13, she had also just found out that she was pregnant and the boyfriend had beaten her for reasons unknown.
It turned out that Mrs George had decided to terminate the student from continuing her education, simply basing her decision on the stigmatisation of the school students and the small community at Oktedi Mining, in Tabubil, Western province. Mrs George told Mary that her classmates no longer wanted a pregnant girl to attend school with them. She also told Mary that it was her fault that she had got herself into such a situation and that through her wreckless behaviour, that she got pregnant and had unsafe sex. It was also her fault that she was now in an abusive relationship. Is this the kind of attitude we want to have towards our young girls. In parts of Africa, childhood marriages have been a long practiced tradition, and is slowly coming to an end because of the wonderful work of Child Rights activists to stop such a practise. Papua New Guinea is a free and democratic country where we are free to exercise our rights without fear. Or are we? Mrs George was happy to let Mary leave school, and go back to her abusive relationship.
Whats wrong with this pictutre? Several things.
As an educated woman and the head of a primary school from a rural setting. Mrs George has not only, violated some of the clauses of the Lukautim Pikinini Act,she has further marginalised the young girl, depriving her of the right to a better future.
Mrs George has indirectly told Mary that she is better off in an abusive relationship, than have an attempt at rebuilding her life.
Tuesday 29 May 2012
A bag of Rice for your Vote!
Things have quietened down since the nomination of intending candidates last week in Madang, but thats not to say that is the end. On the contrary, this is only the begining of more bribery, corruption and the hand out mentality" which Papua New Guineans just cant seem to say no to, politicians and supporters alike. But we will get to that in a moment. In the months, weeks and days, now leading up to the National General Elections, the Electoral Commissions efforts to counter such practices have been to no avail, people are still practicing bribery, in the giving and recieving of money, bags of rice, sugar, flour and alcohol in some instances. The PNG Electoral Commissions catchy slogan is 'Your vote, Our future', with the message that people need to vote to make a difference. In order to vote they need to get registered and have their names appear on the electoral roles in each province. Part of the commissions awareness campaign was also to urge citizens (PNG) not to accept handouts from intending candidates in any form or shape. It saddens me, that we; PNGeans, educated or uneducated, jump to gain what we can, when the opportunity arises.This brings to mind, the discussions I've had of late, of Ethics and Ethical practices. Andre and Velasquez in an artical titled; 'Unmasking the Motives of Good Samaritan' have said that; "Even at our best we are only out for ourselves". This is so true, politicians and more so intending politicians, are only out there to win votes to get into parliament. While, this may be a general statement, I do tip my hat to PNG Leaders that can exercise transparency and hold a true sense of morals and principals that are for the greater good of PNG citizens.
Well I hate to disappoint the Electoral Commissioner, Andrew Trawen, who I'm sure is doing all he can to coordinate this years elections, intending politicians still practice and have the 'Big Man' attitude. 'Big Man or Bik Man' in tokpisin refers to the educated PNG man or woman that has the means to gain the support of other PNGeans (kandre man) either by manipulation, bribery and corruption for self gain.
Just last week Peter Yama was seen handing out cash, bags of rice, sugar, flour and alcohol to supporters and onlookers.
So what does that say about good governance, ethics and ethical practices. This is why we can't continue to rely others to make decisions for us but have the guts to say NO to bribery, corruption and unethical practices. We can vote but thats not enough! Change of attitudes!
Well I hate to disappoint the Electoral Commissioner, Andrew Trawen, who I'm sure is doing all he can to coordinate this years elections, intending politicians still practice and have the 'Big Man' attitude. 'Big Man or Bik Man' in tokpisin refers to the educated PNG man or woman that has the means to gain the support of other PNGeans (kandre man) either by manipulation, bribery and corruption for self gain.
Just last week Peter Yama was seen handing out cash, bags of rice, sugar, flour and alcohol to supporters and onlookers.
So what does that say about good governance, ethics and ethical practices. This is why we can't continue to rely others to make decisions for us but have the guts to say NO to bribery, corruption and unethical practices. We can vote but thats not enough! Change of attitudes!
Wednesday 23 May 2012
Madang town in an election frenzy
Election fever has officially hit Madang town with posters of intending candidates posted on PMV (Public Motor Vehicle) Bus windows, on store walls, on trees, on fences and basically everywhere anywhere you can think of. Frequent users of the 9A bus that usually services people on Nabasa Road and town were stranded yesterday because they were all hired out by intending candidate Peter Yama for his campaign rally yesterday. Since the issue of Writs by Governor General Sir Michael Ogio for nominations of the provinces seven seats.
On a more serious note, intending candidates in this years elections for the Madang province saw the nomination of three candidates over the weekend. Former Madang MP, Jacob Wama who is running as an independent candidate. You might also remember him as the politician that was arrested for being in possesion of a fire arm and using it. Yes, PNG laws only regulate law enforcement officers to be in possession of weapons.
Another was nominated was former Kurumukari Landowner Association Chairman Toby Bare and Youth-Link director and founder Bryan Kramer. He may well be considered a new kid on the block where politics is concerned, however he is stading for the Madang Open seat. Mr Kramer has been heavly involved in Youth work and development in the province as of late.
By Tuesday this week nomination numbers increased to 15. Of those 15 included were the current MP Buka Goli Malai, Lucy Kiki Buck. She founded Meri Helpim Meri Foundation, an non-government organisation in Madang.
On Monday, businessman and former Madang MP Stanley Pil nominated for the Madang Regional seat. There are so far nine nominated. That same day five nominated for the regional seat including Sir Arnold Amet and another women leader, Balim Pokpok. Five more on Tueday as well.
Mrs Pokpok, is the sister to retired army colonel Jerry Singirok. If you may recall Singarok was the infamous Papua New Guinea Defence Force Commander during the ever controversial Sandline Crisis. A Karkar Islander as well she is a wantok to Sir Arnold Amet. So the Karkar people are coming out strong.
More norminations are still pouring in, Madang people should have a good selection of leaders to choose from when PNG goes to the polls come June! Vote wisely!
On a more serious note, intending candidates in this years elections for the Madang province saw the nomination of three candidates over the weekend. Former Madang MP, Jacob Wama who is running as an independent candidate. You might also remember him as the politician that was arrested for being in possesion of a fire arm and using it. Yes, PNG laws only regulate law enforcement officers to be in possession of weapons.
Another was nominated was former Kurumukari Landowner Association Chairman Toby Bare and Youth-Link director and founder Bryan Kramer. He may well be considered a new kid on the block where politics is concerned, however he is stading for the Madang Open seat. Mr Kramer has been heavly involved in Youth work and development in the province as of late.
By Tuesday this week nomination numbers increased to 15. Of those 15 included were the current MP Buka Goli Malai, Lucy Kiki Buck. She founded Meri Helpim Meri Foundation, an non-government organisation in Madang.
On Monday, businessman and former Madang MP Stanley Pil nominated for the Madang Regional seat. There are so far nine nominated. That same day five nominated for the regional seat including Sir Arnold Amet and another women leader, Balim Pokpok. Five more on Tueday as well.
Mrs Pokpok, is the sister to retired army colonel Jerry Singirok. If you may recall Singarok was the infamous Papua New Guinea Defence Force Commander during the ever controversial Sandline Crisis. A Karkar Islander as well she is a wantok to Sir Arnold Amet. So the Karkar people are coming out strong.
More norminations are still pouring in, Madang people should have a good selection of leaders to choose from when PNG goes to the polls come June! Vote wisely!
Thursday 3 May 2012
Media Freedom
Today, Divine Word University in Madang joins the rest of the world in remembering Media Freedom Day. A day that pays tribute to all journalists throughout the world in their bid to disseminating information to their audiences without 'fear or favour'. Papua New Guinea is fortunate that journalists practice a very democratic media process and flow of information since its indepence. There was a time when the PNG government wanted to suppress this freedom in the 90's by ammending sections of the constitution to do with the freedom of expression, to regulate media reports on politicians and political affairs. Media freedom in PNG is vibrant and very active in this young nation.
Today, the university will pay tribute to former radio broadcaster and Communication Arts lecturer, Ian Boden. You can read more in a tribute written by Malu Nalu below.
Today, the university will pay tribute to former radio broadcaster and Communication Arts lecturer, Ian Boden. You can read more in a tribute written by Malu Nalu below.
It will also award Martin Namorang, the writer of the Namarong report blog the DWU Communication Award, for embracing new media and publishing controversial issues on his blog. The other reciepient is the community project yumi piksa, and you can follow this on http://www.yumipiksa.org/ktp/wp-content/uploads/KTP-flyer-for-launch.pdf. Ms Joys Eggins also a former lecturer of the DWU Communication Arts department was invited to recieve the award, but wasnt able to attend. She is now, however, furthering her carreer at the University of Goroka, as the assistant manager for the Community and Social Media Center. Congratulations to both reciepients.
Wednesday 2 May 2012
Madang to have a Womens Business Club
Ms Rose Parangkei, the President of the Madang Women In Business Club (MWIBC), tells me that the Madang Women in Business Club is working towards launching its chapter on the 27th of May, 2012. The event is schedualed to take place at the Madang Resort. Ms Parankei said that a alot has been happening with the Port Moresby Women in Business Club in terms of personal development and training for women in Port Moresby.
Women in Port Moresby are being assisted by the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) in applying for business names and setting up the necessary docuementation.
She said once the Madang WIBC taps into this network, it can make training and development available to women in Madang.
Ms Parangkei said some of the training that is available through this network, involves gaining the necessary skills for booking keeping, applying for a business name from IPA, managing finances and even having access through small business loans.
The Women in Business Club in Port Moresby already has the backing of the Papua New Guinea Microfinance facility and the National Development Bank and this will prove useful for intended business women in Madang.
This is definately a step in the right direction, as women in Madang continue to empower themselves.
Women in Port Moresby are being assisted by the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) in applying for business names and setting up the necessary docuementation.
She said once the Madang WIBC taps into this network, it can make training and development available to women in Madang.
Ms Parangkei said some of the training that is available through this network, involves gaining the necessary skills for booking keeping, applying for a business name from IPA, managing finances and even having access through small business loans.
The Women in Business Club in Port Moresby already has the backing of the Papua New Guinea Microfinance facility and the National Development Bank and this will prove useful for intended business women in Madang.
This is definately a step in the right direction, as women in Madang continue to empower themselves.
Monday 30 April 2012
Flying Mangi Lo Ples
People, in general, may become a bit apprehensive about hopping on Papua New Guineas newsest domestic airline recently, trading name Travel Air, AKA: Mangi Lo Ples. But then again, people flying in PNG, in general have been cautious about what airline they use with the news of last years tragic airplane crash still fresh in their minds. The crash took place on the coast of Madang, taking with it 28 people.
One would probably argue that it wouldn't be fair to make such a general statement given all airlines are different and the nature of operations differ somewhat. As a consumer, though, there is still alot of skeptism.
Well my rating for Mangi Lo Ples was very high. There may not have been any refreshments served on the flight from Madang to Lae, but that didnt matter to me. The flight wasnt that long anyway! What mattered was, the flight took off early and arrived early, giving me heaps of time to do other things, while in Lae. For the business community time is always a factor. Travel Air perhaps has this advantage as it doesnt have a lot of scheduled flights as compared to other airlines, but I anticipate this will soon change. The Madang community is definatley buzzing about the new airline and more and more students are choosing the airline to fly domestically. I met a young women who was on her way to Kiunga via Port Moresby. She would then fly from Madang to Lae to Port Moresby and then onto Kiunga. She was not more than 18 years.
The flight out from Madang was very smooth. Well, people might think that taking off is not the problem, its when landing, there is anticipation that something might go. I agree, but in this case, when the landing gear folds up neartly like it should thats a plus for me. When all the instruments in the plane a doing what they should then thats good enough for me.
That Saturday morning was absolutly glorious, the day was so clear and all the mountains of the Finisterre range were in clear site. We flew over the Astrolabe Bay and were headed for Lae, Morobe province. From the air I recognised the Usino Bundi mountains, Ramu Valley with with its neatly lined palm oil and the cattle grazing fields below.
The flight attendant, after going through all the safety requirements, advised us that the flight would take at least 40 minutes, but we reached our destination in about 30 mins. It perhaps takes 10 minutes to taxi into the terminal. Travel Air had us in Lae by 7.30am. Nice and early and way ahead of time. The staff are friendly, neatly dressed and always attentive.
The airline currently operates 3 Fokker 50 aircrafts and is slowing expanding operations between, Port Moresby, Lae, Madang, Mount Hagen, Kiunga and the New Guinea Islands.
It costs K120 to Lae from Madang one way, relatively cheap. Ideal for the average income earner in Papua New Guinea, given the price of goods and services have risen a great deal. My rating for Mangi Lo Ples 11/10! Great Job you guys and Keep it up
One would probably argue that it wouldn't be fair to make such a general statement given all airlines are different and the nature of operations differ somewhat. As a consumer, though, there is still alot of skeptism.
Well my rating for Mangi Lo Ples was very high. There may not have been any refreshments served on the flight from Madang to Lae, but that didnt matter to me. The flight wasnt that long anyway! What mattered was, the flight took off early and arrived early, giving me heaps of time to do other things, while in Lae. For the business community time is always a factor. Travel Air perhaps has this advantage as it doesnt have a lot of scheduled flights as compared to other airlines, but I anticipate this will soon change. The Madang community is definatley buzzing about the new airline and more and more students are choosing the airline to fly domestically. I met a young women who was on her way to Kiunga via Port Moresby. She would then fly from Madang to Lae to Port Moresby and then onto Kiunga. She was not more than 18 years.
The flight out from Madang was very smooth. Well, people might think that taking off is not the problem, its when landing, there is anticipation that something might go. I agree, but in this case, when the landing gear folds up neartly like it should thats a plus for me. When all the instruments in the plane a doing what they should then thats good enough for me.
That Saturday morning was absolutly glorious, the day was so clear and all the mountains of the Finisterre range were in clear site. We flew over the Astrolabe Bay and were headed for Lae, Morobe province. From the air I recognised the Usino Bundi mountains, Ramu Valley with with its neatly lined palm oil and the cattle grazing fields below.
The flight attendant, after going through all the safety requirements, advised us that the flight would take at least 40 minutes, but we reached our destination in about 30 mins. It perhaps takes 10 minutes to taxi into the terminal. Travel Air had us in Lae by 7.30am. Nice and early and way ahead of time. The staff are friendly, neatly dressed and always attentive.
The airline currently operates 3 Fokker 50 aircrafts and is slowing expanding operations between, Port Moresby, Lae, Madang, Mount Hagen, Kiunga and the New Guinea Islands.
It costs K120 to Lae from Madang one way, relatively cheap. Ideal for the average income earner in Papua New Guinea, given the price of goods and services have risen a great deal. My rating for Mangi Lo Ples 11/10! Great Job you guys and Keep it up
Tuesday 17 April 2012
A battered little body
I found it hard to talk about an issue that has been bothering me for sometime. Although it doesnt involve me directly, the information that I'm about to talk about is compelling and does affect real people. I once knew a little boy, whose name I dont wish disclose, who used to attend a local school here in Madang. The boy is bright, very energetic and full of life, like any other 8 or 9 year old would be, accept he would turn up to school with a frown on his face. Always a sad look in his eyes and close to tears each time. The school was his only source of comfort, a place to get away and dream dreams of what the future would hold for him. That is what all schools should be for, shaping the future of our young Papua New Guineans! Lets say that boys name was Peter.
I learnt about this little boy through a friend of mine and became concerned about his plight, why? He was at the time a victim of child abuse, whether he still is in that situation remains unknown at this present time. A friend of mine, would tell me that Peter would turn up to school, almost everyday with severe bruises, whipp marks on his arms and legs, as if inflicted by a coconut broom and still bore the scares from previous beatings. I became concerned, anyone would, I felt helpless, though, and asked myself, if I would be intruding in the private matters of a individual family unit. Was it in my place to say anything do anything?
Papua New Guineans have developed ignorant attitudes, that matters of this nature are considered private and are dealt with in the home. But, what does that say about our traditional values? Our traditional values have taught us that life is built around family, respect, togetherness and harmony with respect for one's self and others. Respect for elders and love and care for children.
Ignorance and wreckless attitudes have gone far beyond logic and compassion. Much like a quarrell between a husband and a wife that could turn into a full scale violent exchange is not viewed as domestic violence but a private matter by many, even to this day. The tok pisin (Pidgin English) comment that many onlookers would say in that situation would be 'Samtin blo tupela', translation, its non of your business. So how far has that brought PNG in terms of initiating efforts to promote advocasy about Child Abuse and Domestic Violence.
I knew what to do, I knew how to help this child, but I wasnt sure on how I should go about it. My friend continued to tell me about Peter, soon the stories became frequent from once every two weeks to once a week. Peter was recieving beatings for not feeding the cat or dog on time. Peter was recieving beatings for spilling the milk on the floor and not cleaning up the mess properly. Peter was recieving beatings for not doing his chores. The chores were not simple ones but labourous tasks which perhaps required the strength of an adult.
I decided to ring someone in Port Moresby and report the matter to a very senior officer in the PNG Social Welfare and Community Development Office. I began to tell him about Peter's stories. The officer took note, and then contacted the social welfare office in Madang. The officer said had now assigned the task to two people to follow the case.
I was somewhat reassured. I still had my doubts. I had done my duty, in the hope that the matter would be, at least looked into. The officer also explained that for cases such as Peter's, Papua New Guinea didnt as yet have a Welfare system that could cater for children in abusive homes. There wasnt a foster-care home for children to go to seek shelter, love, care and compassion. My heart sank so deeply, I went numb.
All this fight, all this effort, just to be told there was no hope. No clear cut decision on this case. No future. Even if Peter was taken out of this situation, the officer explained, Welfare would have to find other relatives to take him in, what was the guarantee that he would not face the same treatment. It was a tricky situation.
I then turned to the school, based on the advise that the welfare officer had given me, to advise the school that, it was the first point of contact for Peter and that the school is entrusted with the childs care during the day. The officer also advised me of the rights of the child stipulated under the Lukautim Pikinini Act. The school, at first didnt want to be involved, I recall the words were, 'They are parents who pay school fees, its none of our business'. Their attitudes changed dramatically when they saw Peter come to school in a bad way one day.
Months past and Peter still came to school with bruise marks and stories that now he was being whipped with a cord all the while being tied to a post. For reasons that were not known. He even bears the scares of a metal butter knife which was thrown at him by his step mother one morning before school.
Peter had been silenced. You see Peter was a adopted by his biological mothers sister, and went to school with his step sister and brother. His older step sister would report back to their parents if Peter told anyone at school about his situation at home. He had been adopted into a family that could support him financially. The welfare officer also mentioned that most adopted children face abuse and are singled out by their families, left to do the chores in the house, enslaved by the people who should love them. The officer said it was a common occurance that adopted children suffer many levels of abuse.
The day came when I recieved a call from Peter's friend that Peter had turned up to school with a deep gash to his head and blood dripping down onto his uniform. His arms were full of fresh bruises red, purple and black in colour. His legs were in the same way covered with bruises from being beaten with something hard. He walked into school slowly, nursing his himself gently, trying to cradle his badly beaten arms as best he knew how. Peter's head hung low with misery, confusion, rejection, regret and anger. How was a boy at that age to feel?
What I was dreading the most had happened. Peter had come to school badly beaten, abused and not even a shred of dignity could be found in his eyes that day, he no doubt questioned his very existence that morning. He may have asked himself why he still alive?
The parents, not even ashamed to hide what they had done to this poor boy, sent him to school that day. All the kids at school saw how Peter was that day and no doubt went home to tell their parents about it after school.
The Principal, decided to take Peter to a private doctor in town and get him treated. The school held onto the doctors report and then asked the parents to report to the school about the incident.
Meanwhile, that day I immediatly drove down to the Welfare Office to ask for assistance, only to be told that the officer placed on this case, had just got out of hospital and was recovering from something. The other officer was out of town and the officers that were talking to me couldnt be bothered. They said to me, "we dont have a vehicle to go and see the child at the mentioned location'.
This was unbelievable, even though I had already mentioned several times that I had come in a vehicle and was willing to provide transport. Their reply; 'There is no one to man the office and even if we leave the office, this case is managed by someone else and had they handed it to us, we would be in a better position to do something.' 'We need clearance from our director first.' Is what they said.
That day I blurted out all the cussing I could possibly think of. Mind you, I'm not one who does.
I'm thinking why even have a welfare office if no one is prepared to help. Why all this attitude and ignorance! A child needs help!
Back at the school Peter's parents recieved a wake up call from the school's Principle. The Principle was also bold enough to say that they would bring the matter to the family court. Good on you principle for being so bold, if only there were more people in authority ready to act!
I dont know where Peter is, my friend told me that he was moved to Port Moresby and his step bother and sister now go to different schools.
How else are we going to protect our children in PNG, if even under LPA, children suffer! Do we create community watch dogs with parents, friends? Do we change attitudes?
I learnt about this little boy through a friend of mine and became concerned about his plight, why? He was at the time a victim of child abuse, whether he still is in that situation remains unknown at this present time. A friend of mine, would tell me that Peter would turn up to school, almost everyday with severe bruises, whipp marks on his arms and legs, as if inflicted by a coconut broom and still bore the scares from previous beatings. I became concerned, anyone would, I felt helpless, though, and asked myself, if I would be intruding in the private matters of a individual family unit. Was it in my place to say anything do anything?
Papua New Guineans have developed ignorant attitudes, that matters of this nature are considered private and are dealt with in the home. But, what does that say about our traditional values? Our traditional values have taught us that life is built around family, respect, togetherness and harmony with respect for one's self and others. Respect for elders and love and care for children.
Ignorance and wreckless attitudes have gone far beyond logic and compassion. Much like a quarrell between a husband and a wife that could turn into a full scale violent exchange is not viewed as domestic violence but a private matter by many, even to this day. The tok pisin (Pidgin English) comment that many onlookers would say in that situation would be 'Samtin blo tupela', translation, its non of your business. So how far has that brought PNG in terms of initiating efforts to promote advocasy about Child Abuse and Domestic Violence.
I knew what to do, I knew how to help this child, but I wasnt sure on how I should go about it. My friend continued to tell me about Peter, soon the stories became frequent from once every two weeks to once a week. Peter was recieving beatings for not feeding the cat or dog on time. Peter was recieving beatings for spilling the milk on the floor and not cleaning up the mess properly. Peter was recieving beatings for not doing his chores. The chores were not simple ones but labourous tasks which perhaps required the strength of an adult.
I decided to ring someone in Port Moresby and report the matter to a very senior officer in the PNG Social Welfare and Community Development Office. I began to tell him about Peter's stories. The officer took note, and then contacted the social welfare office in Madang. The officer said had now assigned the task to two people to follow the case.
I was somewhat reassured. I still had my doubts. I had done my duty, in the hope that the matter would be, at least looked into. The officer also explained that for cases such as Peter's, Papua New Guinea didnt as yet have a Welfare system that could cater for children in abusive homes. There wasnt a foster-care home for children to go to seek shelter, love, care and compassion. My heart sank so deeply, I went numb.
All this fight, all this effort, just to be told there was no hope. No clear cut decision on this case. No future. Even if Peter was taken out of this situation, the officer explained, Welfare would have to find other relatives to take him in, what was the guarantee that he would not face the same treatment. It was a tricky situation.
I then turned to the school, based on the advise that the welfare officer had given me, to advise the school that, it was the first point of contact for Peter and that the school is entrusted with the childs care during the day. The officer also advised me of the rights of the child stipulated under the Lukautim Pikinini Act. The school, at first didnt want to be involved, I recall the words were, 'They are parents who pay school fees, its none of our business'. Their attitudes changed dramatically when they saw Peter come to school in a bad way one day.
Months past and Peter still came to school with bruise marks and stories that now he was being whipped with a cord all the while being tied to a post. For reasons that were not known. He even bears the scares of a metal butter knife which was thrown at him by his step mother one morning before school.
Peter had been silenced. You see Peter was a adopted by his biological mothers sister, and went to school with his step sister and brother. His older step sister would report back to their parents if Peter told anyone at school about his situation at home. He had been adopted into a family that could support him financially. The welfare officer also mentioned that most adopted children face abuse and are singled out by their families, left to do the chores in the house, enslaved by the people who should love them. The officer said it was a common occurance that adopted children suffer many levels of abuse.
The day came when I recieved a call from Peter's friend that Peter had turned up to school with a deep gash to his head and blood dripping down onto his uniform. His arms were full of fresh bruises red, purple and black in colour. His legs were in the same way covered with bruises from being beaten with something hard. He walked into school slowly, nursing his himself gently, trying to cradle his badly beaten arms as best he knew how. Peter's head hung low with misery, confusion, rejection, regret and anger. How was a boy at that age to feel?
What I was dreading the most had happened. Peter had come to school badly beaten, abused and not even a shred of dignity could be found in his eyes that day, he no doubt questioned his very existence that morning. He may have asked himself why he still alive?
The parents, not even ashamed to hide what they had done to this poor boy, sent him to school that day. All the kids at school saw how Peter was that day and no doubt went home to tell their parents about it after school.
The Principal, decided to take Peter to a private doctor in town and get him treated. The school held onto the doctors report and then asked the parents to report to the school about the incident.
Meanwhile, that day I immediatly drove down to the Welfare Office to ask for assistance, only to be told that the officer placed on this case, had just got out of hospital and was recovering from something. The other officer was out of town and the officers that were talking to me couldnt be bothered. They said to me, "we dont have a vehicle to go and see the child at the mentioned location'.
This was unbelievable, even though I had already mentioned several times that I had come in a vehicle and was willing to provide transport. Their reply; 'There is no one to man the office and even if we leave the office, this case is managed by someone else and had they handed it to us, we would be in a better position to do something.' 'We need clearance from our director first.' Is what they said.
That day I blurted out all the cussing I could possibly think of. Mind you, I'm not one who does.
I'm thinking why even have a welfare office if no one is prepared to help. Why all this attitude and ignorance! A child needs help!
Back at the school Peter's parents recieved a wake up call from the school's Principle. The Principle was also bold enough to say that they would bring the matter to the family court. Good on you principle for being so bold, if only there were more people in authority ready to act!
I dont know where Peter is, my friend told me that he was moved to Port Moresby and his step bother and sister now go to different schools.
How else are we going to protect our children in PNG, if even under LPA, children suffer! Do we create community watch dogs with parents, friends? Do we change attitudes?
Nou's Blog: An Overview of PNG Literature
I was looking through Nou's Blog and wanted to share this with anyone else who had an interest in PNG literature. Happy reading!
Nou's Blog: An Overview of PNG Literature: This paper will discuss PNG Literature in the form of addressing key questions about what exactly PNG Literature is. To that effect question...
Nou's Blog: An Overview of PNG Literature: This paper will discuss PNG Literature in the form of addressing key questions about what exactly PNG Literature is. To that effect question...
Wednesday 11 April 2012
Highlights of the National Softball Champions
Random photos of the PNG National Softball Championships held over the Easter weekend, April 6th-10th. Over twently teams attended the meet braving rainy weather conditions.
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