NGO supports women

 OXFAM plans to end poverty and injustice by providing additional support for victims of gender-based violence in the country.

It includes a fund to repatriate victims and packages for those who want to become economically independent.

Oxfam in an international non-government organisation. 

Its executive director in Australia Dr Helen Szoke made the announcements at the opening of a new office for Papua Hahine, a 

local women’s network which helps the victims to access 

counselling and support in Port Moresby.

Szoke said support from Australian and Canadian governments helped set up a pilot repatriation fund for those in the Highlands. It will be extended to the National Capital District, Central, East Sepik, Morobe, Madang and Milne Bay. 

“We are happy that support from Australia and Canada now allow us to extend this life-saving work to another six provinces,” she said. 

“We want the fund to operate in all provinces and we will continue to look at ways to extend this work.”

She said there would be a repatriation fund to provide start-up packages to victims of violence. It is up to K1000.

“The fund is not only about saving lives, it is giving people a chance at a new life beyond the cycle of violence,” she said. 

“There will be items like sewing machines, gardening tools and materials provided to some of the most vulnerable women in PNG to build new houses.”