NCD Women’s Summit and Expo to tackle urgent issues on GBV

Women in NCD pose for a group photo with Governor Powes Parkop and representatives of NCDC (NBC: Solomon Sumb)

The National Capital District [NCD] Women’s Summit and Expo opened today, launching a powerful five-day initiative to address critical issues surrounding gender equality and women’s empowerment in Papua New Guinea [PNG].

The NCD Commission, in collaboration with international partners, organized the event to spotlight the pressing challenges faced by women, with a specific emphasis on combating gender-based violence [GBV].

The UN Women's Deputy Country Representative in PNG, Tosin Akibu, underscored the importance of the event, stating that gender-based violence remains a severe issue in the country.

Ms Akibu commended the PNG government for extending the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign to 20 days to amplify awareness and encourage more action against GBV.

“Gender-based violence is a critical issue for PNG,” she said.

“The extension to 20 days allows us to address this issue more comprehensively. UN Women stands firmly with NCD Women and this Expo, and we are committed to supporting the government’s efforts to eliminate gender-based violence.”

UN Women Deputy Country Rep Tosin Akibu (NBC News: Solomon Sumb)

NCD Governor Powes Parkop also emphasized the need for sustained action, proposing that this summit should become an annual event.

“This spotlight on women’s issues must be an annual event. Addressing violence against women is essential,” Parkop said.

He explained that the NCD has structured its programs to address GBV in phases, initially targeting youth-focused initiatives and now shifting to women’s issues.

“Our next focus will be to engage the church to explore its role in this fight,” he added.

Statistics presented at the event reveal a disturbing increase in reported GBV cases in the NCD.

Since 2017, over 5,000 cases have been reported, with more than 2,000 identified as high-risk cases, including incidents of rape, accusations of sorcery, forced marriages, and death threats.

These figures highlight the urgent need for intervention and support for victims.

Dianne Kambanei, Director of the National GBV Secretariat, reiterated the importance of establishing a meaningful dialogue during this expanded 20 days of activism.

She also expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative and looks forward to opening the 20 days of activism in Kimbe on Wednesday.

The summit and expo will continue throughout the week with discussions, workshops, and awareness programs designed to empower women, educate the public, and encourage community-driven solutions.