NCD Governor Powes Parkop has called on women across Papua New Guinea to take a stronger role in leadership and decision-making as the NCD Women’s Council held its first Annual General Meeting in 15 years.
Speaking at the AGM at Sir John Guise Indoor Complex on Tuesday, Governor Parkop described the revival of the Council as an important step in rebuilding women’s representation and creating stronger pathways for participation at all levels.
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He said the absence of an active women’s council over many years had weakened the voice of women and girls despite women making up almost half of Papua New Guinea’s population.
Governor Parkop congratulated PNG Council of Women President Sabeth Yangis, NCD Women’s Council President Lucy Pomu and NCD Women’s Commissioner Elis Siki for leading the revival effort.
He said leadership often begins with a small group willing to act and encouraged women to remain united in advancing issues affecting women and girls.
He highlighted the continuing low representation of women in Parliament, the public service and the private sector, saying the country cannot achieve meaningful development while half of its population remains underrepresented.
He said Papua New Guinea must do more to recognize and support women’s leadership potential.
Drawing on international examples, Governor Parkop said women around the world have demonstrated strong leadership across governments, economies and major institutions.
He urged the Council to ensure future annual meetings deliver practical outcomes rather than becoming discussion forums.
Governor Parkop called for a clear strategic plan focused on increasing women’s participation in politics, business, education, healthcare and senior government positions.
To support the rebuilding process, he announced that the National Capital District Commission has allocated K1.5 million to strengthen the Council’s organizational capacity and governance structures.
He said the funding would help the Council organize its membership, establish administrative systems and develop programs before pursuing additional support in the future.
Governor Parkop also outlined initiatives supported by NCDC, including women’s economic empowerment programs, responses to gender-based violence, family support services, a provincial women’s summit, education support for girls and entrepreneurship training.
He announced plans to promote Papua New Guinea’s traditional meri blouse through fashion showcases and skills development to create business opportunities in tailoring and garment production.
He encouraged women market vendors to view informal trading as a pathway toward larger business opportunities through saving, investment and business expansion.
He also reaffirmed support for improved maternal and reproductive health services, including advocacy for a specialist women’s hospital in Port Moresby and stronger implementation of national efforts to reduce gender-based violence.
Governor Parkop urged women to make full use of the Council’s return and take a greater role in shaping the country’s future.
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“This country equally belongs to you. The resources of this country equally belong to you.”
“It is time for women to rise up, organize, plan and take your rightful place in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future,” he told them.