UN Women supports women leaders ahead of local elections in Papua New Guinea
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Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea — Women in Papua New Guinea has conducted a three-day training on women’s political leadership and campaign strategies for 28 women leaders of the Southern Region in preparation for the upcoming Level Government (LLG) elections.
The training, in Port Moresby from 18–20 June 2024, aims to enhance the capacity of women leaders at the subnational level in PNG, equipping them with knowledge of political systems, campaign planning, messaging, and communication strategies, and fostering networking and collaboration among each other.
During the closing ceremony on 20th June 2024, Minister for Community Development Youth and Religion, Hon. Jason Peter, encouraged the women leaders to be positive and continue to be the best in every aspect of life, including politics.
“Because of my mother, I have come this far. I deeply value the contributions she made for me and my siblings. Her story empowers me and constantly reminds me of the importance of women’s empowerment and gender equality. We all know our backgrounds and the journeys we’ve taken. Many of you are leaders in your own homes, so continue to strive to be the best" Minister Peter said.
Adding on, the Deputy Australian High Commissioner, Dr. Joanne Loundes, stated that “the Australia and Papua New Guinea Ministerial Forum, which ended last night, reiterated the need to prioritize gender equality, further expand the gender and social inclusion partnership, and addressed family, sexual and sorcery-related violence.”
“We are working on our five-year investment program, which will fund this particular program for PNG Women Lead and also support the expansion of women's leadership in Papua New Guinea,” Dr. Loundes said.
Representing the participants, Ms. Doreka Dai said, “We are honored and privileged to have attended this training. It has made us realize our potential to participate in the political leadership race. This training has equipped us with the necessary tools, skills, and resources to prepare ourselves for the election. This is also a steppingstone for those who want to participate in the 2027 national election.”
Motu Koita Assembly Women’s Representative and Commissioner to the National Capital District Board, Hon. Mea Lou-Issac, stressed the importance of maintaining respect and integrity and encouraged the participants to let go of attention-seeking behaviors.
In closing, UN Women Deputy Country Representative, Ms. Tosin Akibu, said: “Today marks the pinnacle moment as we conclude this training, and despite many challenges in the space of women´s political representation, we must remain united and steadfast in our commitment to change and forge strong relationships and solidarity among women leaders to amplify our collective voice and empower one another to serve our communities better.”
The training was funded by the Australian Government. Similar trainings will be held in the coming weeks for women leaders based in the remaining three regions.
See also: Political participation of women