The people of PNG face a number of social issues such as violence, ill health as well as a lack of infrastructure and training. In the Southern Highlands tribal violence continues to cause death and destruction of property as unresolved conflicts escalate out of control. 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. Similarly access to health care in PNG is very limited and as a result HIV/AIDS is a major issue with the World Health Organization categorizing 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 PNG churches ability 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, teacher training, HIV/AIDS awareness, mobile health clinics and communication on social issues. With support and planning from UnitingWorld our partner church is responsible for implementing these activities.

To download a project information sheet please click here.