The Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) marked National Women’s Day yesterday with a panel discussion at Murray Barracks, highlighting the growing role of women in leadership across the defense sector.
The event brought together senior female officers and leaders to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women within the PNGDF and the Department of Defense.
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Discussions focused on the important roles women play in operational duties, corporate functions, and leadership positions within the force.
The panel was led by Director of Air Operations, Lieutenant Colonel Nancy Wii, alongside Department of Defense Deputy Secretary Ms. Doreen Joel and Major Jacqueline Lilih from the PNGDF Directorate of Legal Services.
PNGDF Chief of Staff to the Chief of Defense Force, Colonel Kingsley Wawada, delivered the opening remarks, while Australian Defense Force (ADF) Assistant Defense Advisor Lieutenant Colonel Simone Heyer also participated in the discussion.
The event underscored the vital contributions of women not only within the PNGDF but also in the broader Papua New Guinean community.
It also highlighted the ongoing partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia in promoting gender equality and inclusivity within the defense forces.
Colonel Wawada said women in the PNGDF continue to demonstrate their value across all areas of service.
“Women in the Papua New Guinea Defense Force continue to prove their value across all areas of operations, leadership and within our units. They serve with courage, professionalism and resilience, contributing directly to mission success at home and abroad,” he said.
Lieutenant Colonel Wii emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting women in leadership.
“The importance of today is to celebrate and acknowledge our female officers and members, and to share the knowledge and experiences we have had in the PNGDF as leaders to support women to be their best and take up opportunities for leadership,” she said.
Lieutenant Colonel Heyer said National Women’s Day provided an important platform to highlight the role of women in defense.
“Women play an essential role within the defense force, and Papua New Guinea’s National Women’s Day is a fantastic opportunity to highlight this. We are proud to work with the PNGDF to support equality and inclusivity in our defense forces. Working side by side, we are stronger together,” she said.
The event reaffirmed the PNGDF’s commitment to strengthening gender equality and empowering women across all levels of service, while reinforcing its enduring defense partnership with Australia.