Papua New Guinea

Kamo, a Village Health Assistant, and farmer, chose a vasectomy to support his wife’s health and focus on family nutrition. Through the BEAN project, he inspires his community in family planning and sustainable farming, fostering lasting health improvements for future generations.

Yanauo recalls how her community once relied on bamboo and plastic containers to collect water from a distant, unsafe well, which caused illnesses among children. World Vision’s Markham Wash project transformed this, introducing community-led sanitation, safe toilet practices, and handwashing routines. The community built toilets, which reduced sickness, and recently received a Gravity Fed Water Supply (GFS) system, providing six water taps across the village. 

Mitiam, a resident of Kapara, describes the transformative impact of World Vision’s Markham Wash project. Before the intervention, villagers lacked safe water and proper toilets, leading to frequent illnesses, especially among children. When the project introduced sanitation practices and supported the construction of safe toilets, children's health improved significantly. The addition of a Gravity Fed Water Supply (GFS) system brought six communal taps, giving families convenient access to clean water for drinking, cooking, and bathing. Mitiam emphasises that the new system has lightened the burdens on women and children. He thanks Water for Women and partners for this essential support.

Henry, chairman of Kou Cocoa Cooperative, shares the success of the ANCP Climate Smart and Inclusive Cocoa project in Madang Province. The project, led by World Vision, trained farmers in climate-smart techniques and encouraged sustainable cocoa farming. Farmers learned crucial practices like agroforestry and organic fertilization, transforming neglected cocoa blocks into productive assets. The initiative also introduced Savings for Transformation (S4T) groups, helping farmers save earnings and strengthen financial resilience. With improved skills, a healthier domestic cocoa market, and support from partners, Henry believes the cooperative can thrive. Despite his visual impairment, Henry actively farms, inspiring his community toward sustainable change.

Papua New Guinea has the highest TB prevalence in the Pacific Region with an estimated 3,000 people dying each year of the disease. Due to an extreme shortage of health staff, PNG faces many challenges in treating people diagnosed with TB. World Vision’s TB treatment supporters help people with TB complete their medications. They are the silent frontline heroes in the fight against TB in the country.