Papua New Guinean Women: Pioneers in Politics and Diplomacy

In a nation renowned for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, Papua New Guinea has also cultivated a remarkable legacy of women in leadership. From the halls of Parliament to the international diplomatic stage, these women have defied societal expectations and made significant contributions to their country. Their achievements, often against the backdrop of cultural and political challenges, serve as a testament to their resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to serving their nation.

Women MPs (Members of Parliament): 10 PNG women MPs with the names of the villages or places they were born in:

1. Dame Josephine Abaijah

Born in: Misima Island, Milne Bay Province

Elected: 1972–1977, 1977–1982, 1997–2002

Contributions:

• Championed women’s rights and representation in Parliament.
• Played a key role in the establishment of the National Women’s Council.
• Introduced legislation to protect women’s property rights.

2. Waliyato Clowes

Born in: Daru, Western Province

Elected: 1977–1982

Contributions:

• Advocate for rural development and education.
• Worked to improve access to healthcare in remote areas.

3. Nahau Rooney

Born in: Manus Island, Manus Province

Elected: 1977–1987

Contributions:

• Focused on issues related to land rights and customary law.
• Played a significant role in the development of the National Constitution.

4. Dame Carol Kidu

Born in: Shorncliffe, Queensland, Australia (naturalized PNG citizen)

Elected: 2002–2012

Contributions:

• A leading advocate for women’s rights, education, and social welfare.
• Introduced legislation to combat domestic violence and sexual assault.
• Established the Kidu Foundation to support education and community development.

5. Julie Soso

Born in: Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province

Elected: 2012–2017

Contributions:

• Focused on rural development and infrastructure projects.
• Worked to improve access to clean water and sanitation in remote areas.

6. Loujaya Kouza

Born in: Lae, Morobe Province

Elected: 2012–2017

Contributions:

• Championed gender equality and women’s empowerment.
• Established the Loujaya Kouza Foundation to support women’s education and leadership.

7. Delilah Gore

Born in: Popondetta, Oro Province

Elected: 2012–2017

Contributions:

• Focused on health, education, and rural development.
• Worked to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

8. Rufina Peter

Born in: Hula, Central Province

Elected: 2022–present

Contributions:

• Represents the interests of her constituents and contributes to legislative discussions.
• Focused on issues related to climate change and sustainable development.

9. Kessy Sawang

Born in: Madang, Madang Province

Elected: 2022–present

Contributions:

• A dedicated public servant with a focus on community development.
• Works to improve access to basic services in rural areas.

10. Francesca Semoso

Born in: Buka, Bougainville

Elected: 2023–present

Contributions:

• Advocates for peace, reconciliation, and sustainable development in her region.
• Works to address the legacy of conflict and promote economic growth in Bougainville.

 Women Diplomats (Ambassadors and High Commissioners):

1. Dame Meg Taylor DBE

Former: Secretary General to the Pacific Islands Forum (2014-2021)

Province: Eastern Highlands/Jiwaka

Contributions:

•   Played a key role in regional cooperation and development.
•   Led efforts to address climate change and sustainable development in the Pacific.

2. Winnie Anna Kiap CBE

Former: Papua New Guinea High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (20112022)

Province: Manus (Baluan Island)

Contributions:

•  Promoted Papua New Guinea's interests on the international stage.
•  Strengthened bilateral relations with the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries.

3. Dame Jean Kekedo DBE

Former: Ombudsman and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom

Province: Oro (Kokoda)

Contributions:

•   A pioneer in the Papua New Guinean public service.
•   Championed human rights and good governance.

4. Madam Helen Aitsi

Current: Ambassador to South Korea

Province: Central Province (Yule Island)

Contributions:

•   Represents Papua New Guinea’s interests in South Korea.
•   Works to enhance diplomatic relations and cooperation between the two countries.

As Papua New Guinea advances towards a more equitable and prosperous future, these remarkable women stand as beacons of inspiration. Their unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment to their nation have not only shaped its destiny but have also paved the way for countless others. Whether advocating for policy change or fostering international relations, they serve as powerful reminders that leadership knows no gender. Let us honor their legacy and continue to support and empower women in all spheres of society.

Founding Fathers and Founding Women of Papua New Guinea

Founding Fathers and Founding Women of Papua New Guinea who were instrumental in the early years of Papua New Guinea Constitution and Independence. These individuals played crucial roles in shaping Papua New Guinea’s destiny during the Constitution planning stages, self-government and its transition to independence and early years of independence. 

Founding Fathers 

The independence of Papua New Guinea in 1975 was the culmination of decades of struggle and political activism. A number of key figures, often referred to as the "Founding Fathers," played pivotal roles in the nation's transition to self-governance. These individuals, representing diverse regions and backgrounds, contributed significantly to the drafting of the constitution, the establishment of democratic institutions, and the shaping of the nation's early policies. 

Here, we take a look at the most prominent Founding Fathers and Women Leaders who were at the forefront of Papua New Guinea’s Independence: 

• Sir Michael Thomas Somare: As the first Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Somare led the nation to independence and played a dominant role in its early development. 
• Sir John Guise: As the first Governor-General, Guise served as a symbol of national unity and stability. 
•  Sir Albert Maori Kiki: A skilled diplomat and politician, Kiki contributed to the nation's international relations and domestic development. 
• Sir Julius Chan: A key figure in the early years of independence, now known as the last man standing, Chan held various ministerial positions and played a significant role in shaping government financial and monetary policies. 
• Sir Paulias Matane: A distinguished public servant and Governor-General from East New Britain Province, Matane symbolized public service and sovereignty. 
• Sir Barry Holloway: A representative of the House of Assembly, Holloway participated actively in constitutional discussions. 
• Sir Tore Lokoloko: From the Gulf Province, Lokoloko advocated for regional representation and the interests of his province. 
• Sir Sinake Giregire: From the highlands region, Giregire's contributions to the constitutional process were significant. 
• Sir Anthony Siaguru: As a lawyer and politician, Siaguru played a role in drafting the constitution. 
• Charles Lepani: Headed the National Planning Office. Contributed to mining industry development. Served as PNG’s ambassador to the European Union and high commissioner in Australia. 
• Mekere Morauta: Prime Minister (1999–2002). Restored economic stability. Led post-independence financial infrastructure development. 
• Rabbie Namaliu: Close ally of PNG’s first prime minister, Michael Somare. Served as PNG’s fourth prime minister (1988–1992). Previously foreign minister and head of the Public Service Commission. 
• Sir Ignatius Kilage: An advocate for indigenous rights, Kilage contributed significantly to the development of Papua New Guinea's legal framework. Sir John Kaputin: Kaputin's legal expertise influenced the nation's legal system. 
• Sir Paul Lapun: From the New Guinea Islands region, Lapun advocated for regional representation and cultural diversity. 
• Sir Tei Abal: A prominent politician from the Enga Province, Abal held ministerial positions and contributed to early governance. Sir 
• Matiabe Yuwi: From the Upper Highlands region of Papua New Guinea, Yuwi participated in constitutional discussions. 
• Sir Henry Chow: A philanthropists, businessman and politician, Chow contributed to local businesses, economic development and governance. 
• Sir Iambakey Okuk: From the Highlands region of Simbu Province, Okuk was a vocal advocate for local interests. 
• Sir Pita Lus: From the Sepik region, he was a key figure in the pre-independence period, Lus contributed to the nation's political landscape. 
• Sir John Momis: As deputy chairman of the Constitutional Planning Committee, Momis played a vital role in shaping the Constitution. He is one of the few surviving members of his era. 
• Sir Cecil Abel: Abel's role in the early political movement was crucial,. He was a prominent member of the Bully Beef Club and Pangu Pati, the brain behind Pangu’s economic & development policy – one nation, one country, unity in diversity. 
• Oala-Oala Rarua: Rarua was part of the collective effort that shaped Papua New Guinea's destiny during its transition to independence and was a prominent member of the infamous Bully Beef Club. 

 Women Leaders 

While the majority of the Founding Fathers were men, several women also played significant roles in the independence movement and the early years of self-government. These women, often facing significant challenges due to gender discrimination, paved the way for future generations of female leaders. 

Among the most notable women leaders were:

• Dame Josephine Abaijah: A trailblazer, Abaijah became the first woman elected to the House of Assembly in 1972. 
• Hon Nahau Rooney: Elected in 1977, Rooney contributed to women's representation in PNG's parliament. 
• Hon Waliyato Clowes: From the Western Province, she was elected to parliament in 1977, Clowes played a significant role in early post-independence politics. 
• Dame Carol Kidu: A prominent female leader and wife of Sir Buri Kidu, the first Governor-General after independence, Kidu served in parliament from 1997 to 2012. 

 These individuals, together with many others, contributed to the establishment of Papua New Guinea as an independent nation and laid the foundation for its future development.