Lack of clean water supplies in isolated rural communities in Papua New Guinea affects women and children the most, with both the burden of carrying water and the incidence of water-borne diseases.
For almost 20 years the United Church in PNG has been providing water tanks, gravity fed systems, and taps close to home.
But hardware wasn’t enough, people’s behaviour needs to change. The “Rait Mama” campaign in Milne Bay targets women as change agents who encourage their family and community members to wash their hands with soap, taking care with food preparation and toilet use. Finally, we are seeing decreases in waterborne disease as a result of the campaign.
You can help!
This project is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). Thanks to ANCP, we’re making a huge difference together; lifting families out of poverty and helping people improve their lives.
Check out the impact we’re making!
Our Impact (FY 20-21)6,474 people impacted by: • Water and sanitation facilities such as toilets, handwashing bays, soaps and masks • Community mentors in communities, schools and health posts to provide critical health education • Volunteers trained to provide COVID-19 awareness in remote communities. |
COVID-19 Pandemic responseOur partner the United Church in Papua New Guinea (UCPNG) is working hard to prepare its health services for a COVID-19 outbreak, linking staff into training and procuring PPE. It is also instrumental in disseminating vital health messages amongst its congregations through newsletters, radio and awareness raising activities in communities (with appropriate social distancing). In key locations, staff are setting up hand washing facilities and distributing soap. The Papua New Guinea Government’s preparation and response strategies recognise the crucial role that churches play in communities. Our partner is actively collaborating with the government and other church partners, so that there is a strong and cohesive national approach to preventing the spread of COVID-19. |
Papua New Guinea
United Church in PNG
Poverty Alleviation