Watson Gabana
Some staff came on horse-back, others in their farm work-wear and also mothers and their curious toddlers came together to listen and learn about the issue of family and sexual violence (FSV).
On 8 November 2016, 86 people including 42 staff, their spouses and children gathered at Trukai’s Erap farm which runs along the Markham Valley in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea, to hear Femili PNG’s messages.
It was an open-air awareness program, which also marked the beginning of a partnership between Trukai Industries and Femili PNG, where Femili PNG will run outreach and awareness sessions for Trukai staff members.
Denga Ilave, Femili PNG Operations Manager talked about the forms of violence, its negative implications, laws protecting victims of violence and the services that are available to survivors.
“Violence is not normal. We must stop all forms of violence against our women and children,” Denga told those who attended.
She stressed that many people see violence as normal and hence just ignore it. “This needs to stop. If you are neglecting your parental responsibilities, such as not sending your children to school, then you are depriving the children,” Denga said.
Acting Trukai Industries Farm Manager, Daniel Nanape said that the information shared was very important and timely.
“We are facing a lot of issues of family and sexual violence here in the estate,” Daniel said.
“The information shared is very helpful and I am happy that the majority of my staff and their spouses are here listening,” Daniel said.
Meanwhile, Trukai has begun donating 60 kilograms of Roots Rice each month to support Femili PNG’s clients. The donated rice is being used to feed women and children who have fled violence and are staying in temporary crisis accommodation.