“It has been more than 10 years since I was last in Papua. This trip has made it clear to me that support in Papua is really needed. And that a small organization like Hapin has a big impact.”
“Sorong is one of the regions where Hapin can expect more requests for support in the future. For example, before I left, we already received a request for the purchase of folding tables for market women in Sorong. These Papuan women had to leave their usual marketplace overnight to make way for a government building. Moving to the new market is not an option for them: not only would these ‘moms’ have to pay transport costs because the location is further away from their gardens. They would also have to compete with transmigrants every day.
The tables would help the mothers to sell their goods at a location of their choice. This posed a dilemma for Hapin: won’t the tables be confiscated at this unofficial sales point? After meeting the women it became clear to me that the problem is very complex. Despite the fact that they constantly express their dissatisfaction to the local government, no one listens. Meanwhile, incomes are declining, there is insufficient money to send children to school and several women are unable to repay current loans. In short: they fight to be heard. For them, support from Hapin is about more than being able to purchase a handy folding table. It means recognition for the problems they experience. And it helps women to be visible and rebel.
Our help goes beyond a financial boost. Your support means recognition for the problems that people in Papua face, in an environment where they are little or not listened to. That is precisely why Hapin’s work in Papua is so important.”
