No more buckets for Yangoru/Saussia

People in the Yangoru district no longer have to carry water in buckets for long distances now that it has a new state-of-the art Water Town supply system which was recently installed at cost of K6 million.

Richard Maru, member for Yangoru/Saussia and Minister for Trade and Commerce said it was a historic moment for the district and one that now gives people access to clean treated water. Prime Minister Peter O’Neill officially opened the Water system.

“For the last forty years we have been waiting for water and now we can do away with our bucket toilets. I thank you Prime Minister and the government for funding this project. I thank also Water PNG for making this project possible. On behalf of the people of East Sepik I thank you.”

The Water System is equipped with a reservoir tank of 1.08ML, which has the capacity to supply water through PVC pipes to the town’s residences, Police Station, Court House, District Hospital, Catholic Mission, Secondary School, District Administration Office and Assemblies of God School (AOG).

Raw water is taken from the Humbeli River, which is then infiltrated into a Raw Water Well, which is equipped with two pumps. From the Raw Water Well water is then pumped into a Raw Water Tank via a 160 PE Pipe, which is then transferred into the Treatment Plant with the aid of gravity travelling in a downward motion for treatment. Once treated it is then transferred via two transfer pumps to the Reservoir Tanks for distribution.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, while opening the new Yangoru District Water Plant System, said the development is revolutionary and it was good to see that the District Support Improvement Program (DSIP) funding is being used to benefit the people.

He also launched the districts new bottled water product called ‘Yangoru drop’ which will be marketed and sold to generate additional funding to support the operations of the water plant.

Local mother's get business smart

Pese Poge, Margret Pato and Pauline Akman are empowering themselves through the people’s Micro-Bank and Women in Business.

In a joint effort by the two organisation’s to empower woman in the informal sector, women from all works of life are getting their small businesses registered and applying for start-up funds from the Micro-Bank to finance their activities.

Pese, Margret and Pauline are among many women who are stay-at-home mothers are making a living off their hand-craft’s and selling food to support their families. They have been drawn to the opportunities that are being provided through WiB and the people’s Micro-Bank.

Pese knits string bags and caps and sells them on the street to earn a living which sometimes can be risky. She is in the process of registering herself with WiB in order to access funding to expand her business.

“I came to Women in Business to register myself and apply for funding. Street sales are very challenging and you have to have the confidence to sell your products, to approach your customers. I don’t go to areas that I know are not safe. I also have customers that place orders so this also brings in money. I am looking forward to better opportunities and funding through the micro-bank and women in business,” Pese said.

“I used to sell my bilums (string bag) and crafts at the end of every month on a Saturday. My earnings depend on the number of tourists that come into the country. If there are more customers I get more. My plans are to expand my business through women in business and the people’s micro-bank,” Margret said.

The PNG Women in Business Expo is an annual event which attracts woman from all over country and neighboring countries such as Indonesia and the Solomon Islands to trade and do business.

Meanwhile, Pauline is a former teacher and since retiring from teaching has made a business out of selling her arts and crafts in Port Moresby and the East Sepik. She also registered herself and her women’s group in order to access funding and expand her opportunities.

“I started in 1991 and struggled along the way selling my crafts while teaching and I have registered my business with WiB to expand my opportunities.”

Janet Sape, President said the government provided K10 million to fund the first people’s Micro-Bank in Port Moresby.

“Since 2006 with a group of women, I’ve shared the idea and dream of having an institution for the women of PNG. I have a team of women who are co-founders who have teamed up with me and we have travelled the journey. The government approved K10-million and we have been receiving this money in stages to assist, mobilize and establish. We have come this far and now we have the bank.”

Ms Sape said the next step is to expand these opportunities to the rest of the country and open up branches in 89 districts. This move falls in line with the governments 2050 Vision to empower middle class Papua New Guineans by improving their wealth and the country’s economy.

“We are looking at the government to continue to fund the bank so that women can get loans. Our vision is to see this bank rolled out to the 89 districts. We also want government to fund women in business so that it can in turn assist the women.”

WiB recently show cased its strengths at the Women in Business expo held recently in Port Moresby, which coincided with the XV Pacific Games purposely to enable the women to sell their crafts to visiting athletes.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, also congratulated the WiB at the recent expo for taking the initiative to strengthen business activities for the woman which supports government policy.

“I want the Micro-Bank to be established throughout rest of the country for the women. I encourage the women to take this challenge up and assist the government in making this dream a reality.”

Stall owners from the Eastern Highlands province displayed several hand made arts and crafts during the PNG Women in Business Expo held in July this year.

First road to Waramuru in 40 years

Cyrus Howiga was reduced to tears as he talked of the new road that was recently graded into his little remote hamlet of Haiyigu, Waramuru.

Waramuru which can be now be accessed by road comes under ward 20 in east Yangoru/Sausia district, East Sepik province. The road built at a cost of K1 million starts at the Yangoru Station stretches for another 12km into a high mountainous area over looks the plains of East Sepik and then reaches Waramuru. It will then continue down the valley. 

Cyrus Howiga a community youth leader from a remote hamlet called Haiyigu in Waramuru said the new road is the first form of infrastructure in 40 years.

“It’s been forty years since Papua New Guinea’s independence in 1975 and this is the first time that we have received a service like this. For us this road is a life-line. By having a road built into a remote area like this, means that we can get services into this area, start businesses, get proper health services and education also, ” Cyrus said.

Cyrus is from a little clan called Haiyigu, which is nestled along side the highest point of East Sepik province, the great Mt Turupu. Up on the ridges of waramuru, the air is clear, there’s pleasant weather and most of all rich soil, which has the potential to grow many commercial crops.

This area has been untapped for many years and the people have had to struggle, walking many kilometers to the nearest market, school or aid post to access any proper services. The new road has brought with it many opportunities.

He said Waramuru is made up of four other little neighboring clans called Menjawen, Bauvi Zendenang, Hembo Waramuru and Kinendong who are people that are eagerly waiting impatiently for the same road to cut through their jungles and reach their hamlets as well.

For Cyrus and his village people it was like witnessing a dream unfold right before their eyes. Some said they couldn’t believe that for the first time a works department vehicle had reached their area by road.

Richard Maru, member for Yangoru/Sausia and Minister for Trade and Commerce also reached the area by road for the first time since the road was graded as the eminence of fallen trees and jungle vegetation still lay freshly discarded to the side.

Mr Maru said the people have waited too long and now begin to grow impatient for services reach their area.

“We are working as fast we can and I have asked my people to be patient but I understand that they have waited a long time. I am happy that funds have been made available by government for all the road projects, infrastructure and developments to take place in my district.”

Meanwhile, Minister Maru said aside from the road infrastructure, improving health and education is a priority in the district development plan.

This road connects Waramuru to the East Yangoru station which is located in the Yangoru Sausia district.

The Prime Minister, Hon. Peter O'Neill CMG MP, has assured the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) that it has the National Government’s ongoing full support.

PM O’Neill said the government would continue to work closely with the ABG to address ongoing challenges and enhance future opportunities in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB).

He made these remarks during the meeting of the Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) in Arawa, Bougainville, recently.

"This is a historic day as a meeting like this would not have been possible in Bougainville many years ago.

“This meeting today marks a new level of cooperation, particularly in addressing outstanding issues, resolving them and moving forward together,” PM O’Neill said.

"The National Government fully supports the ABG and our priority is to effectively deliver services to the people of Bougainville and Papua New Guinea as a whole.

"Our people deserve the best outcomes in our obligation to improving living standards for people on Bougainville.

PM O’Neill thanked the AROB President, John Momis, for his warm welcome and willingness to work together for the future.

"We all know there are many challenges ahead of us for Bougainville, for our nation and for our region, and these can be overcome when we work together.”

The Prime Minister said the National Government is working to draw down or transfer powers to Bougainville to increase service delivery at a local level.

"Outstanding matters such as the Peace Agreement, Special Intervention Fund, Provincial SIP, District SIP and Local Level SIP funding are being resolved.”

The comprehensive agenda of the meeting further included taxation issues and grants including the local level service improvement program.

The meeting was concluded by Prime Minister O’Neill and ABG President Momis signing a joint resolution.

(L-R) Autonomous Bougainville Government President, John Momis with Prime Minister, Hon. Peter O'Neill CMG MP at Aropa Airport in Bougainville.

(L-R) Autonomous Bougainville Government President, John Momis with Prime Minister, Hon. Peter O'Neill CMG MP being welcomed by a cultural group

(L-R) Autonomous Bougainville Government President, John Momis with Prime Minister, Hon. Peter O'Neill CMG MP at the meeting.

(L-R) Autonomous Bougainville Government President, John Momis with Prime Minister, Hon. Peter O'Neill CMG MP reaffirming commitment's made under the Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) in Arawa.

Acting Police Commissioner Andrews condemns attack on Jiwaka PPC Tondop

Acting Police Commissioner Jim Andrews today condemned the attack on Jiwaka Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Joseph Tondop and demanded village leaders to immediately surrender the attackers.

The Highlands Deputy Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Jimmy Onopia, PPC Tondop and their policemen were set upon by villagers at 10 am this morning during a meeting in which Mr Tondop was physically assaulted and a number of police vehicles badly damaged.

“This is totally unacceptable,” Acting Commissioner Andrews said, adding that the villagers have until Wednesday March 03 to hand in the trouble makers.

“I appeal to the village leaders to identify the attackers and bring them to police to be arrested and charged accordingly. The attack is uncalled for. Mr Onopia and Mr Tondop went in good faith to meet the people to hear their petitions following the death of a man in police custody when they were attacked by villagers.

“For the information of the public, especially the people of Jiwaka, we sent three police investigators from Port Moresby to Jiwaka and since then we have arrested and charged four policemen and one civilian for the death of the man in police custody.

“Contrary to what the people are saying we have been taking, we are taking and we will be taking action against policemen who take the law into their own hands. This is the people’s police force. The RPNGC exists to protect and serve the people of Papua New Guinea and we will swiftly remove any member of the force who is a threat to the public. They will be dealt with through the administrative discipline process and they will be charged criminally as well if needed.

“The attack on Mr Tondop is unwarranted and the assailants must be apprehended and charged,” Acting Commissioner Andrews said.

Meanwhile, Mr Andrews said contrary to what a number of critics have publicly stated, Police are taking action against rogue policemen especially over recent alleged police shootings. He said there is no cover-up and all policemen who break the law will face the full force of the law.

Acting Commissioner Andrews said one policeman has been arrested and charged with willful murder over the killing of Lae women Moanna Pisima. Another policeman has been arrested and charged with willful murder of a Tatana man. Another alleged police shooting in Wewak is completed and charges are expected to be laid within the next few days.

As for the Hanuabada shooting where two men were allegedly shot and killed by police, Acting Commissioner Andrews said the investigation was frustrated because witnesses are not coming forward to give their statements.

“What we have heard is that there was a disagreement between the Hanuabada people over the sharing of “Haus krai” monies paid out to the families of the two men who were killed and since then no-one has come forward to give statements.

“The ball is in their court, not the police. We are serious about removing rogue elements who do not respect life and property. We want to identify them and have them charged both administratively and criminally. So I am once again appealing to the villagers to come forward and give your statements.

“Also, as a proactive measure to stop further killings the police top management issued directives for all high powered weapons to be removed and locked away in armories across the nation. We have also directed that all policemen return to the classrooms for training on standard operating procedures with regards to the use of firearms as well as the rules of engagement.

“It is only after such training that weapons will be reissued to selected non-commissioned officers or commissioned officers,” Acting Commissioner Andrews concluded.

PM O’Neill: Government is Empowering Grassroots to Advance the Nation

The Prime Minister, Hon. Peter O’Neill CMG MP, said the Government is changing Papua New Guinea for the better by empowering grassroots men, women and children of the nation. 
He made these remarks when launching the Nipa/Kutubu District Five Year Development Plan 2013-2017 at the Nipa Government Station in Southern Highlands Province yesterday.
PM O’Neill said the right policies from the most effective Government in the history of the nation was enabling people to improve their lives. 
“This government is investing in districts, provinces and ward councils, which is taking service delivery to the people of our rural areas. Grassroots people know what is needed in their areas and they must be included in decision-making processes.
“Now councilors, village magistrates and court officers are funded by the Government, and this consistency facilitates leadership and decision-making at the local level.
“We will continue to strengthen the public service from the districts up to the national level.”
The Prime Minister said the government is building new public servants’ houses, cleaning up problems in the law and order system, and providing opportunities for children to be educated and families to have access to healthcare.
“Provinces are now receiving almost three billion kina each year for key impact projects. This is the first time in history of this country,” PM O’Neill said.
“For 40 years governments looked around for money as if we were one of the poorest countries in the world. Papua New Guinea had to beg for money from the International Monetary Fund, the Word Bank and countries like Australia.
“Now we have enough revenue, and we have proper management of how we spend this revenue for our people.
“Previously governments also put billions of Kina into trust accounts – but where has all this money gone? This must have been either stolen or mismanaged on so many bogus projects. These bogus projects were never delivered but were still needed in the country.
“Now you can look around and see the new projects being rolled out before your eyes.”
The launch was a memorable day for the people of Nipa/Kutubu, who gathered in thousands to witness the long-awaited occasion despite ongoing wet weather.
The Nipa/Kutubu District Five Year Development Plan 2013-2017 enables the local level government to follow a roadmap, aligned with Papua New Guinea Vision 2050, that is aimed at enhancing ongoing development in the district.
Accompanying the Prime Minister, were senior ministers including Works Minister, Hon. Francis Awesa MP, and Finance Minister, Hon. James Marape MP. 

Prime Minister Peter O'Neill (front) accompanied by Francis Awesa MP, and Finance Minister, Hon. James Marape MP

Prime Minister Peter O'Neill inspecting a guard of honor of the Royal PNG Constabulary in Nipa/Kutubu, Southern Highlands province

Prime Minister Peter O'Neill addressing people in the Nipa/Kutubu,
Southern Highlands province

District Development Authority is home grown

The District Development Authority is very much home grown.

Chief Secretary to Government Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc made this statement in his opening remarks at the District Development Authority Workshop held on March 2nd in Lae.
The workshop was for Provincial Administrators, District Administrators and Local Level Government Presidents for Eastern Highlands, Morobe and Madang Provinces.
Sir Manasupe said the DDA is home grown based on experiences of 40 years of service delivery.
“It is based on the experiences of Prime Minister Hon Peter O’Neill while growing up in Pangia,” Sir Manasupe said.
Secretary for Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Mr. Munare Uyassi said the districts already have the powers to bring services down to the district level.

   Chief Secretary to Government Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc

He said the District Development Authority Act now gives them the statutory power they need to make things work. 
Mr. Uyassi said DDA is not a new thing; it is what people have been asking for.
“It is about localized, accessible service delivery at short turnaround time.”
“We need political and bureaucratic will and the Act requires them to work together.”
Secretary for Department of Personal Management Mr. John Kali said DDA is the vehicle for public servants to use to deliver services that they are normally unable to deliver on.
He said it is through leadership and ownership that services can be delivered.
“Services are not delivered to where it is needed due to no leadership,” Mr. Kali said.
“Public servants need to take ownership and lead in service delivery.”
Sir Manasupe said the District Development Authority is the best possible opportunity to build our villagers and deliver services.
He also acknowledged the District Administrators of Morobe and the Provincial Administrator of East New Britain Province for their contributions to the development of the legislation that enables the DDA.

Powerful women speak out on violence

Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Ms Deborah Stokes, and First Lady Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neill have launched  a book – Powerful Voices – and film -Harim Mi - featuring women speaking out on violence against women and girls in Papua New Guinea.

Produced by FHI 360 with Australia’s support, the book and film contain stories of 49 women from 10 communities in Western Highlands and Sandaun provinces. 

FHI360, in collaboration with other community based organisations, provided cameras and trained women to use digital photography to document their lives and speak out. Ms Stokes said the book and film present different community and services perspectives on stopping violence.

“They show how community action to end violence against women and girls can be taken when men and women stand together. They also illustrate the need for community actions to reduce violence against women and girls to be  supported by    effective action by the police and courts, as well as by the delivery of education and health services,” Ms Stokes said at the launch on Wednesday 18 February.

Ms Deborah Stokes, Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, and First Lady Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neill

 

Ms Babao-O’Neill said the film and book demonstrate the confidence and self-worth of empowered women.

“I am delighted to see the level of confidence and the courageous step these women have taken to share their stories and of the communities that are supporting and embracing this change. In Papua New Guinea, and indeed in many countries in the world, it is often difficult for a woman to talk about personal struggles and challenges. It is my hope that women across our country will gain strength and courage from the Powerful Voices in this book and the film. I thank the Australian Government, FHI360 and all those who have made this possible,” Ms Babao-O’Neill said.

The book and film are part of the Komuniti Lukautim Ol Meri initiative, involving 200,000 people in Sandaun and Western Highlands, which works to prevent and respond to violence through mobilizing communities, education, improving access to services and empowering women and girls. Australia has provided AU$2.8 million to this program through the Strongim Pipol Strongim Nesen program. 

Ms Stokes announced Australia would provide a further AU$2.5 million over three years for FHI360 to continue this work.

“Gender equality and women’s empowerment is a key priority in Australia’s engagement with Papua New Guinea. We recognise that one of the best ways to achieve stronger communities, societies and economies is to empower women and girls,” Ms Stokes said.

Australia will spend up to AU$55 million in PNG, through the Pacific Women Program, to enhance women’s voice in decision making and leadership; increase their economic opportunities; reduce family and sexual violence, and increase access to support services to women and girls and families can be strengthened.

Story and pictures courtesy of Australian Aid

(L-R) Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neil being welcomed by a women involved in the program

(L_R)  Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neill, two women from the program and Ms Deborah Stokes, Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, 

People Around the Nation to Benefit from National Identity Project - Launched by the Prime Minister in Mendi

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill,   in officially launching the Papua New Guinea National Identity (PNGNID) project,  said it will be of great assistance in planning and delivering Government services.

The program was launched when PM O’Neill opened the Southern Highlands Provincial Registry Office in Mendi yesterday, and then the Prime Minister’s details were entered into the PNGNID system.

In launching the PNGNID project, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of the program across the country from the largest cities to the most remote villages.

“The PNG National Identity Project will make it possible for the government to know where people are living and where they greater government services are needed.

“Government requires this information if we are to get better services to the people.

“If a village is growing we will need more roads, more police and more teachers for that area.

“This program will make it easier for us to plan government services because we will know when villages and towns are growing.”

PM O’Neill gave the example of the government’s plan to introduce a pension for people living with disabilities and elderly people over 65 years of age.

“We have to know how many older people are living in an area and we need to know where people with disabilities are living so that we can deliver pensions.”

The Prime Minister said further benefits to come from the program including the use of an identification card that will be used when opening a bank account, accessing free education and health services and being able to vote.

“You must go and register to be able to vote and candidates must encourage people to go and register.

“People can get ID’s and the country can have a good election process.”

PM O’Neill further extended his appreciation to churches and other stakeholders for endorsing the program as it is rolled out around the nation.

The registry office in Mendi is the first to be opened in a province with many more coming online in the months ahead as part of the National Identification Program.  This will bring the services of the civil registry office to the provincial level.

Madang rural roads get major upgrading after 30 years

Madang’s rural roads are finally receiving the major upgrading needed, to make way for economic growth and development. Nixon Duban, member for Madang, Petroleum and Energy Minister is investing in more roads development to boost the provinces economic growth. “I see road as an economic link and without this, infrastructures such as health and education will not be viable and our people would continue to suffer from these basic services,” said Mr Duban. Recent road works on the Mist-Kamba roads, have been funded through Mr Duban’s District Support Improvement Program (DSIP) which is nearing completion. Minister Duban was in the area to inspect the progress and stated that the government funding was extensively used for road clearning. He thanked the O’Neill/Dion government for their continuous support in building vital infrastructures in the country such as road, as it is the link for rural people to have easy access to government services. “Once there is a better road, people will be happy and the flow of goods and services will reach everyone,” said Mr Duban. Again, he performed another ground-breaking ceremony yesterday afternoon in the South Ambenob LLG in the Madang district for the Medo to Laga road and presented a cheque of K1Million to the same contractor for the work to start immediately. People in that area work for hours and miles to reach the main road. Mothers have died from pregnancy and government workers have also left the area because of improper government help. Yesterday they danced and wept as for the first time in 30 years they would see tangible development and their cries have been heard. A mother spoke in tears and said she usually wakes up at 3am in the morning to walk to the nearest main road to catch PMV to town and with Duban’s initiative, it is a big relief for them. Minister Duban in addressing the people said the challenge is now on them to make this road worthy by producing more cash crops and become self reliant. He urged them to form Corporative Societies and seek funds he has made available for them in the NDB rather than relying on government handouts. He said he would continue to build and upgrade remaining roads in the district and he believes that by 2017, all rural areas in his district would have better road links. Nixon Duban having a brief discussion with the contractors on the progress of the Mist-Kamba road in Madang. Nixon Duban at the wheel of the earth-moving equipment during a ground breaking ceremony for the upgrade of Laga road in the South Ambenob LLG, (Madang)

Leah needs more than a hand

Leah Silas who is from Obura-Wanerara in the remote area of Kainantu has been living without arms for 30 years now.

A family from Kainantu came to Madang to raise funds for a pair of artificial arms for their daughter.Leah Silas who is from Obura-Wanerara in the remote area of Kainantu has been living without arms for 30 years now. ASpokesperson for the family Niki said she needs arms so that she can learn to be independent and start to do work at home to ease her family’s burden. He said that they had come to Madang Province to ask for assistance in cash especially, so that they can take the money and add it with the money they had already raised to present to put towards fundraising efforts which began in their home provinve. The Eastern Highlands Provincial governmen promised that they would help the family in terms of financial aid, but have not made any committments to do date. The girls father said that the Eastern Highlands Provincial government were willing to assist Leah to get medical attention and be treated for artificial arms, but they have left the family to raise their own funds. This was the first time for Leah to come out of her home after 30 years which she believed was a challenge for her. Leah said that she needed arms so that she can help her mother in the garden because that is their only way of survival. She added that at the moment her legs were the only body parts that gave her strength to move from one location to another. The family is still appealing to the general public to assist by donating cash so that Leah can receive medical treatment.

Papua New Guinea Women to conduct a Protest Nationwide

Tomorrow will mark a significant occassion where women in Papua New Guinea have decided to stop work, house chores, school and other daily activities that fill out their days to conduct a nationwide protest against the violent crimes against women and females of all ages. The Nationwide protest is scheduled to take place tomorrow where women will march to parliament to hand in a petition to the country's Prime Minister, Peter O'Niel in Port Moresby. The Women are demanding for more tougher laws on criminals for their violent acts against women. In Madang Women will gather ahead of tomorrow's march to conduct a forum with the relevant law enforcing authorities to discuss possible solutions to battle rampant crime in the province. Madang women will also conduct their march from Laiwaden and complete it at the Bates Oval where they are to meet with provincial government officials. The nationwide protest action has been prompted by a serious of violent crimes against women and children in the country's main centres of Port Moresby, Hagen, Lae and Madang. The spate of crimes, with the most recent one being in Port Moresby a month ago, involved a 12 year old girl who was shot dead as Police open fire on a family vehicle. The family vehicle stopped short in their travels along Wagaini drive only to find their young daughter was killed by a bullet released from a policeman's weapon. The policemen not far behind them, pulled up to the family and ordered them out of the vehicle further assulting the girls mother and father. The case is still before the courts and investigations underway into the actions of the policemen. Prior to this incident, an Australian couple were murded in Hagen, the young female been raped prior to being killed. In Madang the tragic news of the young American female scientist who was sexually assulted on Karkar has outraged women even further, demanding the National Government to take tougher measures on offenders. A group, Women Arise is calling on all women in the country to wear black as a symbol of mourning for all the crimes against women and children in the country. The Women have termed the nationwide protest in the local creole or Tok Pisin 'Haus Krai', in english which simply means mourning. Below is a program of the activities which will take place in Madang. Dear Friends, Family, Workmates and the Community of Madang. UPDATE OF THE MADANG HAUS KRAI TEAM There's going to be a final meeting at Madang PAC Office at this afternoon 4;00pm to 5:00pm Tuesday 14th MAY 2013 Panel Discussion at DWU Auditorium. Panel will be Magistral Service, CSO forum, CDB, Provincial Counsel of Churches Womens rep, Public Solicitor etc, starts at 2:00pm - 3:30pm open to the public to go and give views or ask questions. Topic of discussion How do we approach the root causes of crime rates Is Death Panelty the solution for violent crimes,how do we make our communities become responsible citizens. Evening Program Comnbined CHURCH Service hosted by Madang United Churches at 6:00pm -10:00pm Time to come together in prayer and worship submitting our Petition to the Lord asking him for his divine peace;knowlege,wisdom & understanding to us all and the decision makers who will address the petition Provincial/National Government. Wednesday 15th MAY 2013 Everyone gathered at Laiwadan Oval to prepare for a peace ful walk to Bates Oval Program at Bates Rep from Women, Men & Youths to address everyone on the issue of INCREASING Crime Rates and our call for action. Time of Prayer of Repentance for Women espacially and men & youths. End of the Program its going to be a half day program dress code Tuesday 14th BE IN BLACK Wednesday 15 Dress in any colour that is bright; Purple Royal Priest hood/ Prosperity, Blue: Healing, White; Purity Red: Cleansing and the Blood of Jesus ETC..

ITS A TIME TO LOOK FORWARD TO ADDRESSING THIS ISSUE & HAVE THE COMMUNITY TO TAKE OWNERSHIP AND STAND TOGETHER, TO NOT IGNORE AND TO ACT UPON CREATING A SAFER COMMUNITY FOR OUR FAMILIES!!!!

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.

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.

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.

Get screening done today at Natu Clinic under the
'Early Detection Program'

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;

• 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.

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.

Far right- Sagilam Seko in pink, Chairman of the Friends of Women

Doctors and supporters of the program.

I lost a very dear friend to breast cancer and so I remain committed to the cause!

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.

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!