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Subject: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Fr. Robert Plews Laka, SVD [ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ] Date Posted: Tue, Oct 17 2006, 01:56:55am Dear fellow Engans. Greetings to you all! I have surfed through this net and have read all our brilliant ideas and arguments on developmental issues, education and others. We also had some time to communicate on issues that were worth discussing. I am impressed at the ways, we come up to make arguments based on what we feel, see and reason out. Through our sharing in this forum, we have contributed a lot to one another’s faculty of reasoning. More so, we are the product of a civilized world and I am happy that we are able to contribute significantly to the country and the world to make a difference, for instance, our Engans taking positions in the PNG or others working in different part of the world as our very Engan Fr. Elias Aiyoko, SVD from the remote area of Paiela now serving as the first Papua New Guinean Missionary to the Caribbean Islands. In one of the articles, he was featured as a mediator of peace among drug dealers. There are other Engans who have made a difference in the country and the world. May Enga continue to make the difference. Beloved Engans, reading through the archive in this forum, I also notice that politics seems to be one of the main arena in which our opinions, arguments and informal campaigning seem to be wrestled and yes, we have our rights to speak our hearts out. Social problems seem to be next and the list goes on. Much more, as 2007 Election is just around the corner, I have proposed an education/awareness campaign to help our people make informed decisions. I for one was and am still in favor for it. However, my dear learned/schooled Engans, one of the problems which I for one am wrestling with is the reality of our tribal fight. I feel the pain of so many lives being lost and infrastructures being devastated and I believe most of us do share the same sentiments concerning the consequences of tribal fight in our Mother, Enga. Outsiders may have seen tribal fight as a forever social problem which puts us in the shadow and even give us bad image. I cannot escape from it rather live with it and die because I believe that it has its roots back to our ancestors up to the very point of my existence as AN ENGAN FOREVER. However, I also believe that a social problem is never an everlasting one. There are ways in which these can be solved and so is tribal fight. Therefore, my dear Engans, I am appealing for ideas that can be put together in this forum to wrestle this topic. If ever there is a way in which we can solve this, then let us do it, probably applying our much learned knowledge to address this issue, (and not necessarily through tee, maku and compensations) Is there a way we can solve this ONCE AND FOR ALL? To you fellow Engans out there for comments. Fr. Robert Plews Laka, SVD (Tsikiro – Ambum) Slovenia. [ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ]

Replies:

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Wan Pipol [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Tue, Oct 17 2006, 11:11:39am Father Laka, A much appreciated view you've posted here. Sounds good to me for a discussion where I can employ my learnt knowledge and facts to suggest what can be best done to solve the ongoing "tribal conflicts" in Enga. To me this sounds like a much bigger socia-project to get out there and tackle the said issue once and for all, taking into consideration the many obstacles and hinderances out there. I believe a better way to do this would be do establish a pool of intelligence (human resource from Enga) with almost exactly the same sentiments shared and a single objective to get out there to get the job done. The following is how i see this happening 1. - Register (or take a list of) interested individuals who are at least educated to a certain level where they can comprehend and meaningfully contribute to society. These individuals should have at least shared the same sentiment of the issue at hand, and are willing to stand by the one objective (to weed "tribal conflicts" once and for all). 2. Hold a meeting to gather the team (listed individuals) at a central place (POM) at a convinient time to brief them of the issue at hand, and what the team would like to achieve at the end of this mission. Losing time would be a big factor for many individuals, since no one is being paid here, so when the team gets to meet, the meeting should be anticipated to be more than just a brief. It should entail what obstacles, hinderances are out there. In the meeting also, you want to (A) identify which areas in Enga are very highly rated in tribal warefare (B) and what are the primary cause to these warefare. Also (C) a need to identify individuals who are involved in instigating tribal fights/conflicts in those identifed areas. One can never say the entire tribe decides unnanimously to go to war. It is a known fact, there is at least one or two individuals who stir up such within a clan or tribe. These individuals need to be identified. Of course, you cannot get to accomplish this identification process in that one meeting, but this can be an ongoing thing to fully understand who's behind each warring tribe. (D) Evaluate howmuch resource and logistic is needed if you were to go to those sensitive areas to launch a campaign or so, and what it would take and how much time would be needed to visit and talk to people in those areas. Your primarily targetted people to talk to would be community leaders/ tribal elders, and those individual warriors who happen to instigate tribal warefare within their tribe. At the end of this first and intensive meeting (say in POM) we want to task certain individuals to help to go out and do a bit of finding/research and analysis on the information/questions outlined above (A - D) You can schedule a minimum of a month period, or perhaps 2 months before a second gathering. A second gathering should be announced at the close of this meeting. And a better place to meet would be in Wabag, where all team members are to be expected, to report on their tasks. Depending on who's being tasked with the findings/researches, and where they are located you want to establish small/incremental followup meetings to make sure that we're all on target with what needs to be done. 3 - A second meeting should be held at Wabag, say after the 2 months period (assuming a 2 months gap from the first meeting in POM). Here you put your findings together from individual team members. One of the next biggest things you want to discuss after the evaluation of the findings in this 2nd meeting is your next step into action. Again,... my idea (A).... .... [ to be continued. I will continue with my next posting on what to do here. Your ideas are welcome too, for anyone wanting to share something ]... Wan Pipol [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Fr. Robert Laka [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Tue, Oct 17 2006, 03:19:06pm I acknowledge and appreciate your contributions Wan Pipol, thanks so much. Is there any other views worth sharing? Fr. Robert P. Laka, SVD Slovenia [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Interested Gr. 10 Liva [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Wed, Oct 18 2006, 03:15:49am Fr. Robert Laka, I appreciate your efforts to bring the issue of Tribal Fight into this forum and I am looking forward to hear any constructives ideas that can be contributed to eradicate the sickness that is in us, Engans. You have ruled out Tee and Maku to stop tribal fight. I was thinking at that as a simple ordinary Engan, in that I may have had a glimpse of the points Wan Pipol shared. I am kind of confused here, what are you looking at? a scientific way of eradicating what you rightly pointed out as "having its roots to our forefathers" or, are we looking at political intervention through law enforcements to eradicate what we all hate. I would like to hear your comments, together with other peoples. Enough of these campaigns and showing of intellectual debates that would not benefit all, but a selected few. Talk about something concrete here on this form. Education was one which Fr. Laka had expressed; development was another and now Tribal Fights. These are issues which needs collective intellectual minds to share, rather then throughing ideas to show "tapumbai" in the level of educations you have achieved. Gr. 10 Liva [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Andersen Aipit (Concerned Engan) [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Wed, Nov 29 2006, 08:51:58am Hello Everyone My name is Andersen Aipit. I accidentially ran into this Forum thing while I was searching for Enga matters! I am touched by the manner in which Father Laka started the discussion here and the manner in which concerned Engans are airing their views. I have much to say on this topic, so much so that I could indeed complete a Thesis. However to get to the point I agree with Father Laka that nothing is ever so permanent! If you give it some thought it's a wonderfull feeling to know that the dreaded disease of Tribal Fighting CAN BE ERADICATED FOR GOOD in our beloved Province! Incidentially Tribal Fighting WAS WIPED AWAY in 1994 when I was the Acting Governor (Administrator) of Enga Province! Some of the Tribal Fights that I was directly involved in putting off were the Yambaran Pausa and Yambaran Watenge Fight of Tsak that went on for 5 years, Biok Tribal Fight in Kandep, Lakeraes Brutal Killings in Laiagam, Pape-Makele and Putiti Tribal Fights in Sirunki to mention a few. I also tried to put off the Waitin-Weapo Tribal Fight in Laiagam. Only recently I made arrangements and called meetings amongst affected parties to put off the Waitin-Pape and Yulu-Kunalin Fights. That's a gift that the Good Lord seems to have given to me and I am grateful and overjoyed when peace is often restored in Tribal Fights that you think may never end. Once the Tribal Fights were stopped in 1994, I got on the Councillors, Village Court Magistrates, Youth Leaders, Women Leaders, Pastors and Public Servants including Policemen were tasked to LOOK AFTER THE VILLAGES. Not a single NEW Tribal Fight erupted when I was heading Enga. A Mr Andrew Rai from Tsak was selected and appointed ON MERIT as Peace and Good Order Officer and he did a A+ job! Yes, there were a few tribesmen and close friends that I could have given that job and if I did Tribal Fights in Enga would not have got eradicated during my reign! But then, Father Laka, one can cannot attend to Tribal Fighting on it's own. That will be like feeding your say tummy only and letting your hands and legs go without food and what a funny shape you would be in! The Roads must be built as how can you go and stop the Tribal Fights in Anditale area when the Road had been cut off like it has been for years now! No wonder all my beloved Kalepoes are allowed to slaughter each other. Painful indeed! But then the Word of God is very explicit in that it is said: "when the righteous rule, people REJOICE and when the evil rule, people SUFFER". The CHOICE is really left to the people to decide what type of life they prefer especially when it comes to choosing the type of leaders TO LOOK AFTER THEM, THAT IS THE PEOPLE, NOT THE ELECTED LEADERS! Finally Carpenters are poor Mechanics, Teachers are poor Doctors, Councillors cannot make good Governors and the list goes on! This is because God has given each and everyone of us a Gift and we should all try to stick to our Gifts. If we continue miss-matching our leaders then we may never find any solutions to our Tribal Fighting, Corruption such as Stealing from Enga's Purse by your elected leaders and public servants, Road problems, Agriculture and Business Development problems and the list goes on. Sorry, got carried off there so my sincere appologies but like some one said up there do not let your thoughts remain in this Forum or within you. Always look out for what little you can do that will make our beloved Enga a better place for us and more so our beloved people to live in. Some Christians are saying 2007 is a year of change for the better! I tend to believe in that too so let's all Pray about it to see how the Good Lord is leading us into that new Year with hope that amongst other things the dreaded Tribal Fighting which has claimed almost 10,000 lives (a study needs to be carried out to verify this figure) in the last 12 years and displaced over 100,000 people from their rightful villages that are deserted and ofcourse millions of kina worth of Government properties as well as people's houses, coffee gardens and trees and kau kau and vegetable gardens for villagers. Indeed for the record, the last 10 years have been the darkest decade for Enga! I am on agb@daltron.com.pg and always available to discuss further on this and other issues that are affecting our God blessed Province, yet being ruined! God Bless. Andersen Aipit Former Enga Administrator [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Wed, Oct 18 2006, 04:14:07pm Thank you Fr. Lak for bringing this topic up. This has been one of the single main factor destroying established infrastructure and as well as causing people migrate to urban areas. It has also destroyed lives as well, effects of which will be felt of generations. This should be one of our main focus of discussions, even though politics and economics seem to be the more `juicy` topics to chat about. I for one lost both of my grandfathers in tibal fights. Recenly my uncle lost his life-times work and home in the recent fight at Lakamanda. He is now a vagrant in POM, got a block at 8 mile and told me he does not want to return home. Is this what we want to see happen while preaching about economics and politics on this forum? Fr. Lak, you have brought up an important issue for discussion. We must stop character bashing and focus on the issue at hand `HOW to stop/control/minimise/prevent tribal warefare in Enga`. Solution to stoping tribal warefare is not one but many. Each has its own merits. I think we can start by clearly defining our objectives and how we will go about obtaining information and the possible solutions. Than we can evaluate each solution properly and prioritise them. After prioritising than we plan our action and how we are going action those plans with clearly pre-defined end points which we can assses to determine if what we are doing is effective or not. This is a life-times work. Not just something we can do in a year or 5 years. The nerve centre for whatever organisation that can be set up must be in Enga and all meetings in Enga. That is where the problem is. My solution? Re-evaluate our traditional way of solving conflicts and see how it has evolved and how the same prinicples can be applied in morden Enga in solving tribal warfare. peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Fr. Robert LAKA [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Oct 19 2006, 10:04:14pm PNGean, thank you for your much appreciate thoughts. I comment you for that. You and I share something in common, (victims of a trible fright). I was really thinking along what you have mentioned, that is to go back to our traditional way and start from there, analysing the traditional ways of solving any problem and see if the same principle can be applied in the modern way. This might serve as our stepping stone to begin with. I also want to make some points as well regarding the issue, that is: the transition period from bow and arrow to the high powered guns. What factors influenced/contributed to the possession of these guns. I remember seeing the first gun 303 hand gun in 1987 when I was in high school, Gr. 7. I believe there are many now. Further more, my late grandfather mentioned that, when there was tribal fight, the intention was to "would a person and not to kill him". I didn't understand what he meant, up until now, well, but the point is that, if that was the result of tribal fight, "to wound" someone and later on, there was the kepa singi and tee pingi if one die as a result, what happened. Why is there so much hatred, so much brutality, so much damaged done as a consequence of tribal fight? I keep on wondering. Pay back and revenge were never done on someone else's land, today it is out of hand. What is the motivational factor here to do so. Taking these into consideration, can there be a way, a solution to all these? YOU ARE RIGHT, to say, it is a life time work, but there has be a start somewhere and it has to be continued. Enga was never Enga as it is now. My dear brother and sister Engans, we really have to do something about this issue. I for one do not feel like taking this as a cultural phenomenon, but I can't go away with it. If there is a way, I wish we could find that way. Finally Kaim PNGean, I am Fr. Robert Laka, not Fr. Robert LAK, the former Western Highlands Governor. Kaim o, namba ambum tainge yo, simbai daa. thanks. Fr. Robert P. LAKA, SVD [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Tue, Oct 24 2006, 06:42:01pm Kaim, yarai eret lelyo. Spelling error. Yes, Fr Laka we have to make a start somewhere. I see this small discussion has the begining. I think if we are passionate and belive in what we want to achive, we can bring about change. Not necesarrily change a large number of people at once but, changing one person at a time. Back to tribal fights in Enga, the late 80s seems to be turning point in all of PNG in general. It was also around this time at there was a rapid increase in crimes in major PNG centres involving the use of firearms. The entry of guns into Enga and eventually ending up in the hands of the ordinary Engan signalled a shift in tribal warefare. I think the power and the seemingly feeling of being an `untouchable' was in itself a significant driving force drawing firearms into Enga and I think our own Engan politicians and bussinessmen had lot to do with it. Most of you will agree that it is still going on. Sort of an arms race! So firearms is an important factor to consider. So discouraging the ownership of guns in Engan tribes, families, clans etc seems to be a way to go. It will be difficult task but no harm in trying anyway. While doing so, we have to tell and show our own people that solving conflicts by means of a tribal fight is not the best way to bringing peace. Infact, it only brings destruction, misery and alot other things but definetly peace is not one of them! Therefore tribal ware must not even be considered at all. Re-visiting conflict resolution in tranditional Enga will definetly provide some of the answers that we seek. That brings to my next point, and that is the western justice system, the courts that supposedly are the way to solve conflicts. I think most of our people belive that, that system of justice and solving conflicts does not do what its supposed to do. In most times, there is always a bitter looser! and an elated winner! Furthermore, it is non-existent in the remote parts of Enga. The only justice system they know, understand and are aware of is the traditional one. So its common sense that we should use what we are familiar with rather than introducing a foreign concept that most of our village people fail to understand. In the traditional way of solving conflicts, I think there were no loosers and no winners. All parties were usually content with whatever resolution that was agreed upon. There might be some discontent but not to the extend of an all out tribal warefare. My grandfater, who was a village magistrate was killed because he tried to use the court system to solve a conflict. The decision made was accepted by one party but not by the other. The tribes went to war, he refused to be invoved and was shouting from his hut calling all young men not to take up arms. He also refused to runaway but stayed on in his home, tending the fences, the gardens because he believed that if he ran away, than he was failing the system that he was taught to uphold. And for that he lost his life! Up to this day, some of my uncles are still bitter about his murder, mind you this happened more than 20 years ago! But we keep reminding ourselves that if he was alive, a tribal warefare is the last thing he wanted. And if his spirit could talk to us, he will definetly tell my uncles to drop the thought because the very idea stinks from the pit of hell itself! peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> [> Subject: Give Them Something To Do! The Onus is On Us!! Author: KLagaipT3 [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Sat, Oct 28 2006, 07:15:19am PNGean, The final paragraph of your most recent correspondence has stirred me to put pen to ink. Your expression of disgust over the unnecessary murder of your wise grandfather before his prime moves me with emotions of sorrow, horror and regret. I too had suffered a similar fate when my uncle (mother's youngest brother) was killed along the road to Wanepop Catholic church in 1993. A raging war ensued thereafter between my mother's entire tribe (Pyain) and the Pyapit tribe of Laiagam. Though I am glad to say the war has since ended (for over 5 years), the consequence beforehand was that it spread to neighboring clans causing the destruction of the once infamous Laiagam High School at the hands of the Walin tribe (my father's). The high school property was stripped off of every single material and possession it had (including its former glory!). Mamale was even stripped of its livelihood as I stood watching solemnly from a distance at the Komaip junction with my father and family on cold afternoon in 1995! Bad memories of black ashes and smoke linger fresh in my mind as I shed tears of horror and fear! But needless to say, I have gained something from the whole ordeal. And that is; 1) ANYONE being attacked because of tribal affiliation is SOMEONE'S grandfather, grandmother, uncle, aunty, neice, nephew, cousin or even FRIEND!! So the intricate nature of tribal network and social relationships remains strong and ambiguous through inter-marriages (regardless of district) though it will remain oblivious to you or I until assailants surface with submachine guns without warning! (What a risky world we live in, with or without knowledge!!!) Lesson: Fear all, Love all, and Hate none!! 2) People caught for smuggling or harboring guns deserve to be castrated like ordinary livestock and thrown behind cells alongside hardcore criminals. Imagine the wrong message their guns transmit of rabid testosterone, uncompromise and supreme egos. They are equally liable and guilty for the resultant effects of careless handling, regardless of who pulls the trigger. Lesson: Fear War, Love Peace, Hate Guns!! So the best means of solving tribal conflict is: 1) Do your part to pursue small entrepenuerial exercises by injecting reasonable cash to promote small business and investment (e.g. purchasing livestock feed for animal farming; chickens, pigs, cows, goats, sheep). I say this from experience, because I had the hugest turkey you ever saw during August 2005 in Laiagam!! If you're diligent enough, you could expand business by establishing supply chain networks. (Then again, this comment might be unfair because of Laiagam's close proximity to Porgera. But imagine what the human desire to succeed and gain technology can achieve??!! Nothing is impossible!! Rice could even grow in Africa!) 2) Leaders need to work with leaders and host public awareness: As I have said time and time again. "Too many chiefs and few indians!" Go home to your pig huts and sit your butts on one of those hard wooden stools or platforms and preach about the importance of inter-tribal cooperation and the details of global change. I have done this pleasurably in villages and public arenas, and surprisingly, the people listen earnestly! I sense a potential for change as long as leaders (like us) are genuiune and willing to lead by example! I intend to do the same again next year in 2007 with maximum vitality!!! 3) I don't care WHO or WHAT, but VOUCH and VOTE for a political party or candidate who places his/her philosophies on AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT. That is where our potential for development lies. While other countries have already superseded us by climbing up the ladder and reaching the service sector, PNG can only start from scratch by taking efficient use of its vast abundant resources that have long-term potential (e.g. land, labor). The national election (2007) is the only time citizens will ever get the chance to express their desires and will for themselves, their resources and children's welfare. If Democracy cannot work that way, then ALMIGHTY HELP US!! Peace... KLagaipT3 Tokyo, JP [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Mon, Oct 30 2006, 02:16:52pm Kaim, thanks. peace. pngean. ps. I am planning to make the trip to Enga too. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Kaim [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Mon, Oct 30 2006, 09:50:44am I think this debate will run for years, but there are a few things to remember. Enga has plunged into an era of dark ages - even below the threshold of our peace loving tanget adorned descendants where "hired Iraqi style killers" are found everywhere. As Fr. Laka rightly suggested, I am of the opinion that an imminent group of "sold-out peace lovers and pro-progress" oriented individuals (two from each district) be formed. This group must be completely divorced from any political affiliations. Further, I suggest that this group be drawn from the neutral church bodies and the peace and good order committee in the province. The Group can then strategize on how best to tackle this issue. To start off, the eminent group can conduct public forums in each of the districts in the province including public forums the major city centers around PNG. (Port Moresby, Lae, Mt- Hagen, Goroka, Kimbe and others where there’s a big concentration of Engan population). Other Intellectual Engans who cannot make it can contribute their views on Wai Pii Forum (as is now) so that the campaign can represent a wider spectrum of informed views that should result in achieving something more lasting. Fr. Laka, count me in this endeavor as “one of the willing” from Upper Ambum District. I think I have an idea or two plus an iota of energy and effort to contribute for beloved Enga. To answer the question: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Yes, over a phased and long worthy process, it can be eradicated" We need the right dose of medicine with start with and carry this forward.This we can source from an initiative like this Thank you. Kaim Naipelam Tange – Upper Ambum kultange@gmail.com [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Cool_Guy1 [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Mon, Oct 30 2006, 02:26:45pm Very interesting topic raised in this forum. Tribal fight has been an hindrance to development and flow of services to our people in the province. While we enjoy the bright lights of the city, and access the internet, our people still survive day by day by working the land. Most services since independence have gone backwards like other because of tribal fights, and it is an issue that needs to be be addressed. They say, "you can tell the difference between a mature person and an immature person by the way they handle possible conflict situations". For instance, a guy who bashes his wife in the public because of a minor difference shows that he is immature and dont know who to solve his problem. Take a look around our province and you see immaturity taking a centre stage everywhere, even educated people seem to be immature in handing problems. A degree or PHD, or pubic hair for that matter does not make one person mature, it is the attitude and discipline of an individuals approach towards life in general and in this case, how to solve problems with ease and walk on in life shows the maturity of a person. One thing i had in mind in solving this problem is to embark on conflict resolution courses. COnflict resolution courses. I am an Engan and i have thought of the kind of attitude that we display sometimes display animalistic attitudes, maybe because we live with pigs we tend to naturally get some of their attitudes. A pig when, washed will always return to the mud. This can be compared to the way we destroy government services. SOmething good for the people but, we destroy it, maybe because we have unknowingly picked up that kind of behaviour from pigs. If someone closely sit down and work out our behaviour, i believe we will see a lot of those attitudes and behaviours are picked from animals, that might be the reason why trouble fighting becomes and issue in the province. The only way to approach this issue is to help people with conflict resolution techniques. I agree, educated elites of the province should get together and discuss something too. One thing i forgot, educated people are behind the current trouble fights in the province. Educated people are supplying guns and ammunition to their brothers to kill each other. I was approached by my tribe several times to buy a gun for them, i told them that i dont believe in guns. If i buy a gun, i am actually killing my own blood brother. So you see, educated people also need to understand this, because they are also actively involved in the tribal fights. Cool_guy1 [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fight be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Kaim [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Mon, Oct 30 2006, 04:11:35pm Cool_guy1 and all, A fine cut there. Thank you. There's a ton of experiences, personal tragedies (as documented here and elsewhere) shipwrecks in educational opportunities for aspiring youngsters and what have you that we can talk about which are closely linked to this social evil. It cannot be argued further that, there's a "bag of horizontally developed" so-called educated elites from the province, who in their short-sightedness are or have been sponsoring the murder and destruction of their very own. ( Ipa mangen eiitapala de nege generation). This generation needs "vertical human development" to be levelheaded and carry their life in a suitable manner. That is why we need a like-minded group who needs to take the bull by his horns and wrestle with it till we see some twilight at the end of the tunnel. The agenda for this group should not be for any personal glory but for "personal satisfaction and fulfillment” to see lives and societies changed evident in respect (for fellow men and properties) progress and ethical re-generation. I am nominating Fr. Robert Plews Laka to be the Interim- Chairman to mobilize and set this into motion. It is imperative that someone takes ownership of an initiative like this, so I am not precluding anything in my choice here. This is essential. Thank you, Kaim Naipelam Tange – Upper Ambum [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: OK TIME IS UP_ WHERE DO WE REALLY START? Author: Denden Riani [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Sun, Nov 05 2006, 09:45:36pm Father Laka, Excellent Idea. OK, cut all these Tindis and Aromes short. From what I have read so far from the Ideas that have stormed in, I think its all been said (even the ideas that I wish to discuss have already been stated). Now, I agree with WAN PIPOL. Set a time and place where interested on the subject can met up and further discuss and analyse ideas. Wabag, Pom, Madang etc. In reality, I see this has the first step we can all take to do any progress. If we keep on writing ideas and publishing in this forum, I can guarantee you all that NOTHING WILL ACTUALL BE ACHIEVED and instead ones suggestion will ignite a contestation some where and you all scholars with start criticizing each other thus making this symposium another Tribal Fight. I am kindly asking Fr. Laka if you could please take lead once again. I really think there should be some kind of a gathering for all those interested. Due to the kind of job that I am involved in, I really can’t involve myself in organising such meetings but if a time and venue is set, at all cost I will attend. My email address: dendenriani@yahoo.com Ph: + (675) 683 4032 [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: OK TIME IS UP_ WHERE DO WE REALLY START? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Mon, Nov 06 2006, 05:48:24pm How can you say nothing will be achieved. Somthing has been achieved! And that is actually talking about it, thats a start, and creating a network of like-minded people. Lets not rush action! Fr. Laka started this thread so I will wait for your comments. Over and out! peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> Subject: Re: OK TIME IS UP_ WHERE DO WE REALLY START? Author: Den'Den [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Sun, Nov 12 2006, 09:11:25pm Just like I mentioned above, you've started a fuss, why do you have to be that person. Keep calm. Den'Den. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: - [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Nov 09 2006, 09:41:40am Thought yu guys might be interested in this story from pngbd - http://www.pngbd.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17817 Communities mobilize for children’s education -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- by Hilda Wayne of UNICEF TRADITIONAL land and death compensation payments and bride price ceremonies in the Highlands region of Papua New Guinea determines tribal and clan status in the region. The more contributions towards such ceremonies, the higher the status of leadership in the tribe and the tribe itself. Communities in this region are redefining the meaning of community status and setting the trend for many who have come to envy and follow a school fee contribution initiative in the Highlands, investing in their children’s education. Education is vital for social stability and economic development. It is, one basic right of every children. But, the situation in PNG is not very encouraging as nearly half the primary school age children lack the opportunity to learn, though all of them want to go to school. The number is very high in some provinces, especially in the Highlands and Momase regions, and the national average masks wide provincial variations. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works with local partners to support the establishment of child-friendly schools, which – by definition are effective, healthy, protective, girl-friendly and includes the support of students, parents and communities. The program promotes awareness on the need and importance of girls’ education, aiming to increase enrollment for boys and girls, retain them in school and improve their learning achievement. In line with this concept, a community in Chimbu province started this school fee initiative last year, another little known community called Alkena, in the rural Tambul district of Western Highlands province (WHP) used these traditional systems in promoting their children’s education. Children from Alkena Primary School are grateful that they will no longer be carrying home reminder papers for outstanding fees from their school because their people have paid all their fees. Under the theme ‘Nuga naga skul’ (Your school, my school) the children became the highlight of the school’s outstanding school fee payment ceremony. Children who thought they would not complete school have now continued and need not worry about outstanding school fee. It was a moment the children of Alkena will remember for a very long time. Mr. Gabriel Andandi, who is the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Assistant Project Officer, Education said many other districts are following the example set by the people of Chimbu and Alkena and are contributing towards school fee payments. The initiative is part of UNICEF’s priority to Accelerate Girls’ Education (AGE) in school and make schools become child-friendly. “We are not reinventing the wheel. The traditional system is already in place however the focus now is on children getting the best from the community to support their children,” said Mr. Andandi. Mt. Hagen is the capital city of WHP and it takes almost over two hours travel from Alkena to the city. The province is one of the biggest producer of coffee in the country and is also the business epicenter of mining provinces of Southern Highlands and Enga. While the rest of the province are blessed with and enjoy the seasonal coffee harvests, Tambul district has freezing weather temperatures and therefore coffee cannot grow there. The people of Tambul however are also hardworking and rely mainly on subsistence agriculture for an income. Through perseverance and hard work the people of Alkena mobilized from their subsistence living to make the biggest contribution to date towards paying back outstanding debts for their school children attending Alkena Primary School. Children, especially girls are prevented from going to school and one of the main reasons is lack of school fees. Paying school fees is really a big sacrifice for families, however the people of Alkena took it to heart that the education of their children formed the foundation of development and progress for them. In Alkena, the people were divided into their respective wards and a contribution committee comprising church, women, youth and community leaders was formed. Outstanding fees were listed according to the eight wards the children came from and the wards started funding raising to met the outstanding fees. When the funds were put together for presentation to the school it was announced that they people had raised a massive K55,000 (Approx US$18,300) of which K40,000 was paid to the school for outstanding fees and an extra K15,000 was raised. The extra will be put towards the building of a new classroom. Leaders from the district also made a commitment that this will be an annual event. Secretary for Education, Dr. Joseph Pagelio who was guest speaker at the presentation was impressed by the community initiative and praised the people for taking a stand for their children’s education. It was also witnessed by the country’s provincial education advisors. Other communities have also followed this concept which continues to gain momentum and people are beginning to realize that it is really worth investing in the education of a child. Hilda Wayne is UNICEF Assistant Communication Officer in PNG. For further information about UNICEF in PNG contact Hilda on Telephone: +675 321 3000 or +675 688 7640. Email: hwayne@unicef.org . [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Nov 09 2006, 12:27:00pm Good points spy. 1. Principle of LOVE and giving are part of Engan culture, love is not only taught by Chrisitanity principles but by other world religions as well. 2. Abosolutely right on land registration, clearly demarking tribal/cland land borders may be a solution. Other people will have a different view on this one. 3. Compensation/moka is a way for conflict resolution. Outlawing the practise and forcing people to solve conflicts through the courts may cause more problems/conflicts. Rather than banning, laws should be set to guide the practise or just recognise it as way for conflict resolution or come up with ways to negotiate the demands put forward by a group/clan demanding compensation. 4. Right here again - when our politicians show friendship and cooperation than the ordinary people may do the same. 5. Public bringing in criminals who are relatives - the first obligations for most people is to the family/tribe/clan while the state/law/government/ takes second or even third place. Bringing in wantoks or reporting wantoks who are criminals will create conflict between relating families. Most pngeans do not want that. Some even benefit from these criminal activities. I am not saying it won`t work, just saying if we ask, we should not expect full cooperation but we must keep educating our own people of civil duties. 6. Mass education - I would prefer mass TECHNICAL EDUCATION. Equip young people with trade skills rather than loads of theroritcal knowledge that industries have no use for. 7. We should have one religion - HUMANITY and be WORLD CITIZENS! right on here. peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Key things!! Author: spy [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Nov 09 2006, 11:03:18am The key things to stop tribal fights are: 1. Generate some love amoung our countrymen through Christianity. This will eliminate hate. 2. Land titles registration - this will resolve land disputes. 3. Ban compensation or "moka" and put every trouble maker before the courts. 4. Political rivalry and ego building should stop. 5. Public should bring forward criminals rather then hiding them. 6. Mass education - although jobs are limited, people with knowledge will survive with civil creativity. eg. in India - Phd holders can sweep streets. 7. Respect for humanity!! [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: Key things!! Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Nov 09 2006, 12:28:47pm Good points spy. 1. Principle of LOVE and giving are part of Engan culture, love is not only taught by Chrisitanity principles but by other world religions as well. 2. Abosolutely right on land registration, clearly demarking tribal/cland land borders may be a solution. Other people will have a different view on this one. 3. Compensation/moka is a way for conflict resolution. Outlawing the practise and forcing people to solve conflicts through the courts may cause more problems/conflicts. Rather than banning, laws should be set to guide the practise or just recognise it as way for conflict resolution or come up with ways to negotiate the demands put forward by a group/clan demanding compensation. 4. Right here again - when our politicians show friendship and cooperation than the ordinary people may do the same. 5. Public bringing in criminals who are relatives - the first obligations for most people is to the family/tribe/clan while the state/law/government/ takes second or even third place. Bringing in wantoks or reporting wantoks who are criminals will create conflict between relating families. Most pngeans do not want that. Some even benefit from these criminal activities. I am not saying it won`t work, just saying if we ask, we should not expect full cooperation but we must keep educating our own people of civil duties. 6. Mass education - I would prefer mass TECHNICAL EDUCATION. Equip young people with trade skills rather than loads of theroritcal knowledge that industries have no use for. 7. We should have one religion - HUMANITY and be WORLD CITIZENS! right on here. peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Love can end war if you know how to love Author: Shell [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Nov 30 2006, 05:52:18am I want love like no other...and I know that after loving me no one will want to fight these silly tribal fights. Love me and you will love love. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Paeo Ware [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Wed, Dec 27 2006, 06:45:04pm I too am a victim of Enga's most dreaded decease, "Tribal Fight". I lost a brother who was murdered cold blooded and thousands of kina worth of propety put ablazed. Even now I have to put up with compensating those that died in the fight after haning lost everything that I had. After much has been discussed on the Tribal fight issue on this forum, no action plan has been put togther. I wish I was living in Wabag now to organise something to get those like minded people together to put together an action plan. It won't work if a meeting is organised in POM, it needs to be done at Wabag. Is there anyone living in Wabag who is willing to commit his/her time to get the first meeting organised? I suppose those of us living outside of the province can organise some fund raising to help the core group based in Wabag. Those interested please avoid using pen names and lets get something organised. This problem may look big but it needs people to address it and I am sure with a commited group working on it, believe me it will make progress. Paeo Ware Gerehu - Port Moresby email: pware@barrick.com [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: FULL SUPPORT (PAIYO) Author: Supporter [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 11:58:25am Kaim you have my full support. I would love to be part of this team to get things moving. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Cool_Guy1 [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 12:32:12pm I believe most of us in this forum are in Port Moresby. Fr. Robert Laka surely did come up with a good topic. Tribal fight is rooted in the tradition of our society. It has been there for generations and cant be solved in an instance. We need to approach this issue strategically, do proper research and come up with amicable solutions to address each issues. Therefore the suggestion of setting up an organisation in Wabag will not be workable because most of the educated Engans live and work in Port Moresby and would be willing to take part in the forum and contribute ideas to the working committee. I would approach this issue the following way. Initial Study. 1. Study the root cause of tribal fighting. 2. Study the cultural settings, relationships, wantok system etc. 3. Payback killings - what is the reason, maybe people are not receiveing enough physological treatment after a trauma. 4. The environment in which people are being raised up - an environment filled with fear and anxiety. Recommendations of the study. 1. Approach each issue individually to make sure we find solutions. 2. Each issue should have a solution. Action plan. 1. Action plans have to be deviced to counter those particular issues raised to be addressed in the recommendation. This is a big task, and i believe we can not totally eradicate but at least help reduce tribal fighting in the province if we approach this issue strategically. I strongly believe that we should form a working team in Port Moresby and start looking at the issue. Cool_Guy1 [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Paeo Ware [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 12:57:12pm I am of the firm believe that this issue needs to be addressed from Wabag. It doesn't need education to feel the pain and suffering people go through during and after a tribal fight. We need the village leaders, provincial and national leaders, the police in Enga, church leaders and youths to be gathered to at a venue in Wabag to do an initial brain storming session. I am sure it will make head way once the first meeting is organised. There are more people in Enga who despice tribal fighting but get sucked into it due to their tribal allegence. Let me ask this question once more, is there anyone in Enga willing to organise the first meeting? Let's not make it complicated, you would be marveled at the response Engans give for such a course. Paeo [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: is the biggest threat "loss of life by tribal fighting or young people by AIDS" Author: - [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 03:02:02pm What the biggest threat "loss of life by tribal fighting or young people by AIDS" [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: is the biggest threat "loss of life by tribal fighting or young people by AIDS" Author: Be responsible [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 04:38:17pm I'd encourage young people and old alike to get Voluntary Counselling Testing (VCT) done and know your status. Sex does not have to continue to be relegated as a secretive and taboo thing. Forget that nonsense and get real with responsible sexual behaviour. VCT Centers are situated all over the country including Wabag General Hospital and Porgera. Tribal fights disperses people and brings untold disruptions to lifelihood. AIDs effectively ENDS LIFE. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> Subject: Re: is the biggest threat "loss of life by tribal fighting or young people by AIDS" Author: - [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 09:15:56pm yes, AIDS ends life, a generation of young people are dying. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Affected (We will end it) [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 05:41:44pm Aids and Tribal fights are two different issues. Aids has an element of choice. It is about making the right choices in life, It is a matter of personal responsibility by staying faithful to one partner, if you can't help it, use a condom. Tribal fight is a different ball game, you don't get to choose, you get sucked into it without your consent. It is a matter of getting dragged into it when properties are destroyed and loved ones are murdered without reason. The comparison between Aids and tribal fight has no relevance here. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: - [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Thu, Dec 28 2006, 08:54:20pm The two are different issues, but I am comparing the way people are getting killed. If young people continue to die over the next 15 years from AIDS, over time that may put an end to Tribal fighting. Tribal fighting seems to dominate discussion at this forum yet, AIDS is the biggest killer. Unfortunatley not everyone takes a responsbile approach to being faithful and wearing a condom. cheers [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Paeo Ware [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Fri, Dec 29 2006, 07:26:45am After alot of talk, I realise it will be difficult to get someone in Wabag to organise the proposed meeting. I remember during the 1990s the Enga university students used to carry out some form of campaigns during their vacation through PJV's assistance. Is this programme still on and could the Enga Student's associations in the various instituion organise a forum in Wabag to initiate this meeting. Let's start somewhere and refine things as we move on. I'd like to challenge those presidents of the Enga students association to get together and set up this meeting. I hope atleast one of those would read in on this forum. If you know of anyone one of them please pass this on. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Fr. Robert Plews Laka, SVD (My Suggestions) [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Tue, Jan 02 2007, 11:39:19pm My dear brother and sister Engans. Many seasonal greetings of peace. I was silent for sometimes after proposing the topic of Tribal Fight in this forum. I had reasons for being away. Firstly my academic work. I am now in the Philippines to finish my PhD. At the same time, I have been working on my PhD Dissertation, which I am happy to share with the like minded Engans and Papua New Guineans when I have defended it. For those who might be interested in my topic, I am working on: Empowerment, the “Tapping” of Innate Power for Participatory Development. Well, this is not the issue here, though it has kept me silent for some times. My dear Engans. I am very much blessed to have your thoughts expressed regarding the topic. I noticed that many of us, almost all of us in this forum have expressed our thoughts against what had destroyed the image of our beloved Enga. After reading your much appreciated thoughts and contribution, I feel that, our approach to the said topic would be participatory in nature. By this, I mean, we are to go back and start with our people. We are live with our people, educate our young brothers, cousins and uncles. Nobody will not listen to us the learned children of our villages. After reaching certain level of schooled people, I believe People will listen to us when we go to them. When we talk with them and listen to them I believe there will be the respect we earn. By doing so, we would help them to make informed decisions that would one way or the other contribute to peace making process. When this approach is taken, I would give a second thought in terms of location. Thus, POM, Madang or other places besides Enga would be ruled out, although, thoughts, suggestions and opinions coming from these areas would be highly appreciated. Wabag would be an idle location, if I may say so. The reason is my beloved Engans, we all are products of Engan Blood and we have the spirit and charisma of any peace loving Engans who disgrace Tribal Fights. Though we may be victims of the said topic, yet the quest for avenge of the lost of our loved ones still linger in our hearts, whether we like it or not, whether we are aware or not. People would put pressure on us to take revenge. My father was shot, my uncle was slaughter and I remember carrying the dead corpse of my step brother to be buried. The pain of revenge boiled down through my nerves, yet, I told my own brothers and tribes men, “one life is lost, there will be no more lives being lost”. Dear brothers, dear sisters, conflict resolution talks and other possible talks may help. We must also make the distinction between conflict and violence or tribal fight. Conflict is not synonymous with violence. I read the book by Archbishop Doug Young of Mt. Hagen, titled: Our Land is Green and Black. He talks about conflict resolution, where preventive measures have been taken, but this seems to be forgotten. People lacked interest, but that does not mean that people would not step in when need be. The idea of conflict resolution is very much appreciated. It would arm a person to stand in as mediator for any warring tribes but I believe it all begin in us. The biggest question I would like to pose here is: if it happens to me that my loved one is killed, would I as an educated person of my tribe challenge my people to lay down their weapons? I salute those who would. I believe by doing so, we might eradicate tribal fight in our province. Further more, for those who have suggested me to be the chairperson of the interim committee of this topic; I appreciate your opinion about me. I will not let down your thoughts about me, however, I would like to see this as a voluntary work, simply because I as a son of Enga wish very much that my people live in peace and I will take a voluntary approach to intervene if need be. I have done it before and I will do it. To do this, I prefer to stay back in PNG. At this moment, I am out of the country, but sooner I will be going back home, PNG, to Enga if and when I am released by my superiors for my research. I will do a little bit of awareness campaign about the election that people make informed decision to vote for their leaders. I will also use my position on occasion that are necessary to talk on issues on tribal fight. An informed decision to be made by our people through us by our awareness talks and campaign is the vital point I see. But in the mean time, if anyone living in Wabag would wish to take any action plan, I would very much appreciate it. I will share my opinions on this. The late Andersen Aipit’s contribution in this forum is very much lauded. I believe, people like him in public/political offices, would be in some position to really carry out action plans. We may hold meetings for awareness campaign, going to our own villages and giving talks. To travel from one district to another would be costly, thus, to make use of radio Enga for talk back programs would be necessary but again, I don’t know if radio Enga is on the air after its transmitter station when down to ashes. We need people in public offices to really make this a policy, to stop trouble fight once and for all through executive decisions. However, what would be necessary primarily is to make our own awareness campaign from where we come from. Maybe we would exchange ideas and points to talk about, but the initiative to organize a public talk in our own districts would be a good starting point. Another possibility would be that, sometimes during the election time, a public talk in Wabag town would be great. If everyone is in favor of holding one grand rally in Wabag Town, then let someone in Wabag start sending notes to the people of Enga. I may not make it due my superior’s decisions. I will come if they give me the permission to travel. However, I will write to the 17 catholic parishes in Enga for a grand rally if someone is willing to initiate it. For my brother/sister Engans of other Christian faith like Lutherans, AOG, SDA and others, you may also do the same. Let us set a date for a grand rally. One day’s talk at a grand opening and later on following it up in our own districts would be good. Dear Engans, I have talked too much, sorry for that. But what am I saying here? Two points: First: If we want a grand awareness campaign, someone in Wabag please organize a date and place and let us know. I will contribute by writing email to my brother priest in Enga to pass the message for this event. This can be done when the country and the province is going into polling. Second: Not all of us are in PNG, nor have the same time for break and holidays after studies and work. The issue about Tribal Fighting is a sickness that is imprinted in the hearts of young and old Engans, which can be eradicated once and for all. The big responsibility remains in us schooled Engans. We ought to take a personal initiative and interest in our own districts and villages to start an informal campaign about the consequences of tribal fights during our own time. Let us express our regrets and hopes when we go home for breaks. Let us make our young and old know that we as learned children of our villages do not like it. Let us express our sentiments to our own people; I know they will listen to us. Let us put our heads together in the little way that we can think of. Grand rallies and talks can be organized when those living in PNG and those living abroad who could make it during Christmas come together. A good timing for a grand rally is tangible. Em tasol and I am looking forward to hear from you my dear brother and sister Engans. Note: If I am given the permission to go to PNG for my research and data collection, I will organize a rally before the coming polling begins. I will take the initiative to pass the message around, in EMTV, FM and AM radios for the invitation. I wish to ask those in this forum to make a sensible, reflective and thought provoking speech in this rally if we push through. We will invite all intending candidates if they want to be part of it. Enga needs change from her children like you and me and we’ve got to make our Enga Proud of Us. May God bless Enga, May Tribal Fight be stopped for the good of our children. Fr. Robert Plews Laka, SVD University of the Philippines, Los Baños. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Engan Lege [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Fri, Jan 05 2007, 10:14:54am Fellow Engans; Let me repost this here again. The Most Learnt people are the Humblest in the World, and they walk the simple walks of Joe Blow in the Street. Intelluctually well educated people pour their minds at appropriate times. [This response is for Steve and Metere Mangi's argument]. We, Papua New Guineans are educated fools and as an Engan, I'm no exception. Why can't we humble ourselves and use the respect our tribes/clans give us and work together as a team of like-minded engans. If we want to help combat tribal fights, it has to start in the heart of all educated Engans. More often we support our tribesmen in buying of guns or praise them as true warriors. Lets go to our villages and tell our tribes/clans that all educated engans want to stay together for the better of Enga. To start, this is a long walk and tribal fights as become a Engan way of life. Careful thoughts and consideration has to be given; 1. A pool of educated 'Engan thinktank' should first be established, and registered. If there is none now, if there is one then call for revival. 2. A database should be created to store details of each individual, e.g. profession, district, etc. 3. Each educated engan should be a financial member of the thinktank. This should show our complete serious committement to combat tribal fight in Enga. 4. A subcommittee of main stream profession should comprise the thinktank 5. Executives of the thinktank should schedule a Conference and should select a best topic and call for papers from the members. The conference should be held annually. 6. This conference should be held in Enga after a good awareness. This awareness will be held by University, national and secondary students supported and funded by the thinktank. People of Enga must know, we, educated Engans are ready to stand as a team for the betterment of Enga. 8. This should at least take a year to plan, and hopefully the Conference would be during X-mas '07'. Sorry, aspirant politicians, hold your peace. We can not quickly rush a gathering to take advantage of before elections, but we need your hearted prayers. 9. The thinktank should strike agreement with Enga Prov Govt to provide advice on various sectors of development. Each subcommittee should be responsible for the advice to the Prov Govt of the sector concern. A thinktank Admin fee can be charged. 10. With time, a office space should be seeked in Wabag. Something along this route may work. Over to you, Fr Laka. Engan Lege [Note: All politicians should stay out of this. Your political interest may wrongly infilterate the good objects of the establishement of the Engan thinktank]. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Fri, Jan 05 2007, 11:18:07am Thank you Enga Lenge. I for one am fully supportive of the idea. Sometime ago, that same thing was proposed here. There was a rush of ideas and when it was realised that some of us were overseas, who want to be part of and contribute to the group as well but can not make it, the thread sort of died down. And I thank you for raising it again. I put my hands up when the first proposal was made and I put my hands up again. To start something that is unique and done with good intentions for all Engans. Even though I am overseas right now, I will be returning to PNG in 2010. I am volunteering my time to start and mantain an internet group for the think tank idea. I will use Yahoo groups to start. Members will join by invitation from other members and will be approved by a group of moderators. I started and currently run two internet groups for PNG medical Drs. Members are in PNG, Aussie, UK and USA. We commmunicate daily via our group website and members receive postings in their email. This group as been very active and we have been instrumental in pushing for better working conditions for national drs. What I am saying here is that we need to establish the group now with members and Yahoo groups is a good place to stat. It makes communication between members easy and can mobolise the members where ever they are to a focal point at an appointed time for a meeting when required. Please do not get me wrong. I have no interest becoming a politician but I am interested in politics because politics govern what I do. I leave it here for your comments. peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Fri, Jan 05 2007, 03:37:45pm Sure. They can communicate between themselves as well as post messages, ideas etc etc for all to read, comment and contribute. The thing with organising such groups as that there has to be a core group of committed individuals who are the engine room so to speak. If we keep on talking about how good an idea is without taking action, then it is just what it is: a very good idea. Some one once said " The tragedy of living is not that we will die but what dies in us while we live". peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Fr. Robert Plews Laka, SVD (Thank you very much) [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Fri, Jan 05 2007, 01:36:33pm Enga Lege and Pngean. I wholeheartedly thank you for your much appreciated thoughts and points mentioned. The thinktank group would be essential and the engine of planned activities that are to be carried out. I agree with your point number 6 and yes, with the help of Pngean, we may establish electronic networks to communicate, however, it would be also good to post our ideas in this Waipee forum. If there is anything which needs to be added, the space is still open for ideas. Thanks once again my two beloved Engans. May God shower his blessings in your careers. Fr. Robert [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Fri, Jan 05 2007, 03:39:18pm Sure. They can communicate between themselves as well as post messages, ideas etc etc for all to read, comment and contribute. The thing with organising such groups as that there has to be a core group of committed individuals who are the engine room so to speak. If we keep on talking about how good an idea is without taking action, then it is just what it is: a very good idea. Some one once said " The tragedy of living is not that we will die but what dies in us while we live". peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Engan Lege [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Fri, Jan 05 2007, 08:20:27pm Engans need to talk about Enga. We need to put our heads together and aim for a better Enga. Are we going to wait until we become the next action Governor. We need to Think and Learn as if we will live for 100 years and, Live as we will die tomorrow. Someone once said, 'Tragedy of Life is not that we Die but What Dies in us While we Live', as rightly coded by PNGean . Tomorrow may never come for our honest contribution, lets work together for the better Enga now. I disgaree that systems shape and fail leaders. I wouldn't be a mere machine driven by sordid pursuits. We compromise our principals for short term gains. In life, visionaries bring the good issues of life into their store house that will mold he/she a person he/she longs for. Joe Blow does not see the issues of life the same as Kami would see. There are sons and daughters of Enga out there, call them home to build Enga for the better. With modern technology (WWW, internet), the world is even so small. What is this so called Engan culture, I hate to hear Engans saying this. Enga is sensitive but the most only coloured culture and language in the country. I have travelled PNG, and Engans are still the sensible people and Enga will truely flourish one day. It requires the activities of a TRUE HONEST Hearted Engan leader that will touch the hearts of fellow Engans and change will start. Fr Laka and PNGean, you both have my hearted thanks, and may God bless you. I would prefer more Kaims to say something. PNGean, who are the Man with IT skill, we need that.You both drop your emails here if you don't mind, I will contact you personally. Engan Lege [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> [> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: Fr. Robert Plews Laka [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Sat, Jan 06 2007, 02:09:38am Kaim, this is my email. rplewslakasvd@catholic.org You may contect me any time. Please give me your phone number as well and I will call you when time permits. Fr. Robert [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> [> [> [> Subject: Re: Can Tribal Fright be Eradicated once and for all? Author: pngean [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: Sat, Jan 06 2007, 12:21:36am Kaim, send me an email. londari2000@yahoo.co.uk peace pngean [ Post a Reply to This Message ]