Leaders and partners who played a role in bringing peace to Central Wantoat in Morobe province have been acknowledged for their commitment towards restoring hope and rebuilding communities after years of fear, division and displacement.
The appreciation was highlighted during a peace and reconciliation ceremony where community representatives, church leaders, government officials and development partners, recognised the efforts of individuals and organisations that helped bring rival groups together.
Community mediator Omin Erinu was acknowledged for stepping forward during the crisis period between 2022 and 2024 to help reconnect communities when communication had broken down.
Mr. Erinu said he accepted the challenge because he saw families becoming divided and people losing trust in each other.
“When the problem became serious, people stopped communicating. I decided to become a bridge so both sides could sit down, talk and find a peaceful solution,” he said.
He thanked community members who supported the peace process and encouraged them to continue working together to protect the peace that had been restored.
ELCPNG Deputy Bishop Pastor Lucas Kidabing was also recognised for the church’s role in supporting reconciliation and bringing spiritual guidance to affected communities.
Pastor Kidabing said the church’s involvement was based on its responsibility to promote forgiveness, healing and unity.
“The church must stand with people during difficult times. Peace requires forgiveness, understanding and a willingness to rebuild relationships,” he said.
Representing the Markham District Development Authority, District Officer-in-Charge Lazarus Noah acknowledged the commitment of all partners who contributed towards restoring stability in Wantoat.
Mr. Noah said peace could only be achieved through cooperation between communities, government institutions, churches, and supporting organisations.
He said the MDDA appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders and was committed to working with them to bring lasting stability and transformation to the area.
Meanwhile, the Honlly Isaac Jokema Foundation representative, Elijah Tuping, thanked the Wantoat peace committee for approaching the Foundation and allowing it to be part of the reconciliation journey.
Mr. Tuping said the Foundation, established by Papua New Guinean musician and businessman Honlly Isaac, believed in supporting disadvantaged communities and creating opportunities through agriculture and social development programs.
He said the Foundation had supported vulnerable groups, including juveniles, inmates and hospital patients, over the past five years and was ready to work with partners in Wantoat.
“The vision is not only to respond to problems but to help communities rebuild and become productive,” Mr. Tuping said.
The partnership between ELCPNG, the Department of Law and Justice Sector, Markham DDA and the Honlly Isaac Jokema Foundation, is expected to support programs focused on changing mindsets, empowering young people and creating sustainable development opportunities in Wantoat.
The ceremony marked a new beginning for communities once affected by conflict, with leaders calling for continued unity and cooperation to protect lasting peace.
