Fr Niezgoda receives Order of Logohu Award for his 50 years of service

By Alphonse Porau
For his services in Papua New Guinea as a priest for over half a century, Father Niezgoda Kasimir has been awarded a by the Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae.
Niezgoda was among 45 people recognised for their services to the country during the Order of PNG 2017 Independence anniversary investiture ceremony held early this month at Government House in Port Moresby.
He was invested with the insignia of an officer of the Order of Logohu for his services to the Catholic Church as a missionary priest for 50 years in Enga and Western Highlands.
Niezgoda is originally from Poland and has lived most of the 50 years in Enga as a missionary.
He moved to PNG in 1967 and was stationed in Enga, which was part of Western Highlands during that time before it was separated in 1981.
He looked after schools and hospitals and was walking the bushes and mountains in the province doing his ministerial work.
An achievement he was especially proud of was the building of the airstrip in Maramuni with the assistance of other partners.
Niezgoda, 84, said this was his second medal after getting the first one 10 years after Independence.
He said he was happy for the recognition for his services to the country and also being part of the development of the country, especially Enga, from nothing.
“I am happy that I was recognised by the country,” he said.
“I have dedicated all my life in Enga since coming to PNG.
“Usually, every 10 years I change to other stations in the province, most of the time walking in the bush and climbing mountains.
“I do that because I was strong and had strong legs and heart but now I am so weak to climb big mountains.
“When I first started there was not much development I saw, but things have gradually changed and I have witnessed all the charges, the high schools and clinics and hospitals.
“But I expect more development, especially the infrastructure such as roads. Few roads in Enga have been there since independence and needed to be sealed.”
Niezgoda said he loved staying in Papua New Guinea and was proud to see nationals taking over their position as bishops, local priests and church positions.
“I am retired but still an active missionary as a chaplain for sisters and schools.”