Png - A Difficult Place To Help
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Vacations.
PNG: A Challenging Place to Aid
Overview
The rising number of Australians trekking the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has sparked increased awareness about the struggles faced by this neighboring nation. Upon arriving in Port Moresby, visitors are often shocked by the poverty in the surrounding settlements, the high unemployment rates, and the pervasive razor wire encircling homes.
The Journey Begins
After a night in a secure, upscale hotel, trekkers fly over the Owen Stanley Ranges to reach Kokoda village. Here, they are warmly welcomed with cries of "Oro!" (meaning "Welcome!"). Kokoda, translating to "place of skulls" in Orokaiva, holds historical significance as Australia’s first Victoria Cross recipient, Private Bruce Kingsbury, was initially buried here.
A Glimpse into History
On the plateau’s edge lies an old generator from when Australia governed PNG. It's been inactive for over 20 years, and the decaying power infrastructure stands as a reminder of better times. Similarly, a large, unused concrete tank hints at a once-functioning water and sewerage system.
Immersing in Village Life
Trekkers walk through remote communities, reaching Templeton’s Crossing, the dividing line between Oro and Central Province. Here, the Orokaiva and Mountain Koiari communities adhere to the Seventh Day Adventist faith with daily church services. Children, despite signs of malnutrition, sing hymns with harmonious voices.
A notable absence of young men in villages is apparent as they often seek opportunities in Port Moresby. Meanwhile, women maintain village life and older men stay nearby. In cities, many young men struggle to find work and some turn to crime or join the fast-growing security industry, protecting homes with razor wire around Port Moresby.
Aid Projects and Struggles
Villages contain basic aid projects like water systems, classrooms, and medical centers, often in disrepair due to lack of funding. Nonetheless, villagers warmly offer food and support to trekkers, continuing the legacy of their "fuzzy wuzzy angel" ancestors.
Returning home, many trekkers wish to assist but face challenges due to unreliable communication and distribution systems. This may explain the absence of sponsorship programs from organizations like World Vision for PNG students.
Empowering Through Cooperatives
Encouraging village cooperatives could ensure the fair distribution of benefits from eco-tourism. Establishing a Council of Clan Leaders could empower local communities to manage development. Their responsibilities could include running schools and health centers, supporting further education, training medical personnel, and maintaining infrastructure.
Confidence in Support
Eco-trekkers are eager to contribute to educational and health initiatives if assured their help reaches the intended recipients. Establishing village cooperatives could ease landowners' concerns about fair benefit distribution from eco-tourism.
A Vision for the Future
Current economic and social indicators suggest the colonial governance model adopted at PNG's independence has not succeeded. Empowering local communities through village councils might be the solution to attract eco-tourists and philanthropists, helping transform the "land of a thousand cultures."
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