The rise of women in remote Sepik into respected leaders within their communities continues to gather pace, as they step confidently into more influential roles. Armed with invaluable skills from training programs, provided by Frieda River Limited (FRL), their voices are now heard at the decision-making table. Moreover, with strength and compassion, they are harnessing their leadership abilities with nurturing instincts to guide and uplift their remote, underserved communities.
Among these trailblazers are Cathy John from Paupe village in Ambunti district, and Martina Aki from Wabia in Telefomin. Their communities are two of the seven key villages designated for the transformative Sepik Development Project, which includes the Frieda River Copper-Gold project, the Hydroelectric Dam, the Sepik Power Grid, and other extensive infrastructure improvements.
As vocal and respected members of the Community Leadership Forum (CLF), established to guide the Sepik Development Project, Cathy and Martina stand shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts in important discussions and decisions. These women are aware of the immense opportunities of the massive investments in their development-starved region.
Through FRL’s training programs, the two women have gained crucial leadership skills, financial literacy, adult education expertise, and knowledge of women’s community healthcare – empowering them to serve their people holistically.
“Today, men respect us. They listen to us. We are recognised as leaders and we are given the time and space to speak for our community,” explains Cathy John.
With community healthcare, Cathy highlighted how Village Birth Attendants’ and girls’ menstrual health skills have equipped the women with vital obstetric skills, family planning knowledge, personal hygiene routines and other critical safety practices. Cathy emphasised that empowering women to make decisions about family planning is essential to addressing life-threatening issues during childbirth in remote parts of Papua New Guinea.
“We understand that Frieda River is remote and requires critical infrastructure. It needs a well-developed road network and a dam before mining can start. We are supportive of this major development,” added Martina.
Empowered by the diverse training they have received; the women of rural Sepik are ready to capitalise on the opportunities the Sepik Development Project will bring. They are at the forefront of sustainable farming practices – innovating in the growing, harvesting, and marketing of their produce – while nurturing a culture of savings that will ensure a prosperous future for their families and communities.
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