Meet attracts 500 women

 MORE than 500 women of the United Church from around the country are in Port Moresby for a week-long convention. 

Women representatives from Morobe, Madang, East and West Sepik, Eastern Highlands, Northern, Central and National Capital District are taking part in the convention which began on Sunday with a march, flag raising and worship. 

With the theme “Christian women are called to make a difference”, the convention aims to develop, empower and equip Christian women to help in their communities.

Planning committee member Kila Amini said apart from Bible lessons and worship, the participants would discuss types of diseases affecting women, financial management and early childhood learning. 

“Many mothers and girls are not aware of the diseases affecting women today,” she said.

“We want to tell them about the diseases and what they should be doing to keep fit and healthy. Our people are lacking vital information because of lack of awareness. 

“Dr Mari Apana spoke to us about cervical cancer and how it is affecting our women.” 

“He said many mothers were giving birth on hospital floors which questioned the role of the government. From our discussions, the women are talking about establishing women centres to engage in awareness and outreach programmes. 

“I am a retired secondary school teacher. I have seen women resorting to prostitution and other means to make ends meet,” she said.