Peace to progress: Hayapuga communities rebuild church, schools after years of conflict

Communities in the Hayapuga local level government [LLG] of Tari-Pori district are turning the page on years of devastating tribal conflict, driving a rebuilding effort backed by new church infrastructure, education projects, and a local financial inclusion drive.

Having stood as pillars of unity and peace restoration during times of unrest, churches in the area are now seeing direct support to rebuild their foundations in Hela province.

Over the weekend, local community leader Tobby Maya Pajape visited the Yapiya Haronda ECPNG Church, pledging to personally purchase and deliver construction materials this month for a new church building and pastor’s house.

“I acknowledge the work of churches in the LLG who stood united during tribal conflicts to restore peace and unity,” Pajape said. “Because of their effort and the support of partners, the LLG is now beginning to witness real peace.”

To sustain this peace, Pajape has launched a targeted grassroots economic program aimed at empowering women and youth through financial structure.

He recently distributed Bank South Pacific [BSP] account opening forms to the Karai community to establish clan and group accounts, confirming that 10 new group accounts will be fully operational before the end of August.

“I want the community to get involved in Small to Medium Enterprise [SME] activities,” he urged residents. “First, clear the new site where Karai Primary School will be built. Work together in groups on agriculture, and support the church and school. In return, I will deposit funds into your accounts.”

He emphasized that establishing formal banking access gives local groups the structural foundation needed to manage SME initiatives and participate directly in local infrastructure projects.

With peace returning, local leaders are prioritizing education, one of the heaviest casualties of past tribal violence in Karai. Plans for Karai Primary School and the Karai Technical Vocational Education and Training [TVET] Centre were shelved for years due to instability, but full-scale restoration is now underway.

Hela Education Services has officially recognized the establishment of Karai Primary School, with student enrollments scheduled to open next year.