The Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea is intensifying grassroots efforts to combat sorcery accusation-related violence in Enga Province through expanded community training and advocacy led by Caritas Enga.
From May 11 to 15, the Catholic Diocese of Wabag gathered church workers, magistrates, local officials, and community leaders at Holy Spirit Senta Par for a refresher training on addressing Sorcery Accusation Related Violence, or SARV, a longstanding problem in parts of Papua New Guinea linked to killings, torture, and communal attacks.
The Diocese said the initiative forms part of Caritas Enga’s efforts “to address and eradicate SARV within the province.”
Since 2019, Caritas Enga, the Diocese’s Justice, Peace, Development and Relief agency, has conducted advocacy and awareness programs across Enga Province, efforts the Diocese said are “already bearing positive fruits in many communities.”
The training also focused on peacebuilding, reducing social issues, and preparations for Papua New Guinea’s 2027 national elections. Participants received practical training in community engagement and grassroots advocacy aimed at strengthening peace and justice efforts across the province.
During a session on the Community Curriculum for addressing SARV, John Galmai of the Melanesian Institute stressed the importance of collective action in confronting the violence.
“It requires a collective effort to eradicate SARV,” Galmai told participants.
A total of 56 participants attended the training, including two councillors, seven magistrates, community leaders, and members of the Caritas Enga leadership team.
The Diocese said participants are expected to conduct additional awareness and advocacy activities across Enga Province’s six districts in the coming months.
