Kaugere and Korobosea women celebrate Mother’s Day in unity

Members of the Kaugere/Korobosea JT Women’s Association during celebrations marking Mother’s Day over the weekend. (Image: Supplied)

The vibrant rhythms of singing, dancing, colourful parades and the spirit of sisterhood took centre stage as more than 100 women from the Kaugere and Korobosea communities celebrated a powerful two-day Mother’s Day event over the weekend.

Supported by Moresby South MP and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Justin Tkatchenko, the gathering marked the formal mobilisation of the Kaugere/Korobosea JT Women’s Association.

Leading the movement is women’s leader and coordinator from the Moresby South Electoral Office, Anna Kaiau, alongside Kaugere Women’s Association leaders Susan Kaia, Eri Pesto and Evelyn Billy.

The weekend began with a panel discussion focused on the “Give to Gain” philosophy, the idea that investing in women’s leadership and financial literacy brings wider benefits for the community and the nation.

Women from the Kaugere and Korobosea communities show unity and sisterhood during the Mother’s Day event in Port Moresby. (Image: Supplied)

Ms Kaia, a former councillor and group leader, delivered a strong message, saying the association was created as a pathway for survival and growth.

“The Association is formed to ensure that no woman has to sacrifice her potential just to survive,” Ms Kaia stated.

“We are here to ensure she survives so she can lead. Kaugere is rising, Korobosea is rising, and when the women rise as sisters, the nation gains.”

The panel also highlighted the importance of youth empowerment, education, faith and community safety.

Women’s leader Susan Kaia addressing mothers and women during the Mother’s Day gathering in Moresby South. (Image: Supplied)

Youth representative Regina Mark spoke on the importance of young women completing their studies.

From a spiritual perspective, Lillian Mirisa Kee encouraged mothers to remain strong in their faith and continue building their small businesses during difficult times.

Korobosea Village Councillor Bonnie Tom Cardigan shared her experiences in promoting peace and working with eight community policemen to maintain safer communities.

Her message was supported by Ako John, who called on men in the community to actively support the association.

The celebrations continued on Sunday with a combined church service where prayers were offered for the “Mothers of Tomorrow”.

The Rabia Basketball Court later became a centre of laughter and entertainment with traditional fun and games.

Women from Kaugere and Korobosea gather during the two-day Mother’s Day celebration in Moresby South. (Image: Supplied)

Ms Kaia thanked Minister Tkatchenko, the Moresby South Women’s Empowerment Coordinating Office and community leaders for their continued support.

By formally registering as an association representing more than 500 women, members from the Moresby South electorate are now expected to have better access to services including banking, government grants and corporate partnerships.

As the two-day event came to a close, the message remained clear: unity is the community’s greatest investment in empowering mothers, women, and girls.