Peaceful march, awareness mark World Day of Sorcery

The National National
People marching in Mendi town to mark the World Day of Sorcery and Witchcraft Accusation Violence yesterday. – Picture supplied

A PEACEFUL march and awareness to mark the World Day of Sorcery and Witchcraft Accusation Violence was conducted in Mendi, Southern Highlands, yesterday.
Catholic bishop Donald Lippert of the Mendi archdioceses told The National that Mendi was known for witchcraft and sorcery accusations and killing, and they wanted to teach people that it was wrong and evil.
He said many people, especially women and children, were continuously being accused of practising witchcraft or “sanguma” and the march was to highlight this problem in the province and other parts of the country.
The march involved Kumin community health workers, students, Catholics and Christians from local churches as well House of Hope that helped victims and survivors of sorcery accusations related violence.
Sr Lorena Jenal started the House of Hope on Feb 21 in Pomeberel village in Mendi to provide shelter, protection and services for victims.