The people of PNG face a number of social and structural issues such as violence, ill health and a lack of infrastructure and training. Many people are have limited access to basic services, such as health, education and transport.

In the Southern Highlands tribal violence continues to cause death and destruction of property as unresolved conflicts escalate. This tribal fighting has forced many trained teachers to leave their positions in United Church schools in the region and a number of the schools have been burnt down.

Access to health care in PNG is very limited and HIV/AIDS is a major issue. The World Health Organization has categorised the situation in PNG as epidemic.

As part of an Australian government AusAID funded program, seven PNG churches and their seven Australian Church partners are working together to strengthen the capacity of PNG churches to provide basic services to their communities.  Under this program UnitingWorld partners with the United Church in Papua New Guinea to implement peace building activities, microfinance initiatives, teacher training programs, HIV/AIDS awareness, mobile health clinics and communication on social issues.

With support and planning from UnitingWorld our partner church, United Church in Papua New Guinea (UCPNG) is responsible for implementing these activities.

Update

Downloadable Resources:

Project Sheet