Aiya group raises funds for peace meet on Xmas eve

By FREDDY MOU
THE Aiya peace organising committee of Kagua-Erave electorate, Southern Highlands, last Saturday held a corporate fundraising dinner at the Dynasty Restaurant at the Vision City shopping Mall, in Port Moresby, to raise money for the peace gathering set for Dec 24 between tribal clans in the district.
The Aiya Peace Association was incorporated in October and made up of representatives from all warring tribes (of the recent warfare) of the Aiya local level government, Kagua and parts of Erave district.
Early this year, the affected and conflicting tribes (Laisi, Wake, Lakira, Rairipa and Anagerepa) voluntarily initiated for peace.
Association chairman Peter Tulapi said many properties had been destroyed and more than 50 lives lost in the fight between Uma and Sumi in 2002 and in 2009.
“We have lost lives and properties destroyed and we are trying to bring back the conflicting tribes together for peace and to live in harmony,” Tulapi said.
He said the committee was made up of elites from the province and were prepared for the occasion.
“We make sure the people celebrate the event on Dec 24 with their families and friends as true Southern Highlanders united as one.
“No man is an island.
“We all depend on our brothers and sisters, friends and families and others to build a strong and vibrant district in the province and the nation,” Tulapi said.
The event brought together all the former leaders of Kagua-Erave, including former MP David Basua, incumbent Kagua-Erave MP James Lagea, businessmen and women, friends and relatives.