More than 5,000 refugees live in and around the city of Wamena in Papua. They have been there since March last year. Men, women and children are looking for safety and protection. They fled in terror from the Nduga region after the Indonesian army, in search of rebellious Papuans, destroyed their villages, homes and gardens and took over churches and other public buildings. They reside in and around Wamena, spread over dozens of small and larger spots. Back to Nduga is no longer an option for these hunted people. The medical team reports many cases of malnutrition, scabies, dysentery, bone fractures and diarrhea, or a combination. But the vast majority of victims suffer from serious respiratory infections and digestive problems. It is cold at night in the Baliem Valley, there is little or no familiarity with hygiene and good nutrition is lacking. Many of them are traumatized and avoid contact with others. Gaining trust takes time. Provisional schools have now been set up for hundreds of children, under and behind a tarpaulin with a plank as a table.
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A medical team consisting of doctors, nurses, trauma and emergency workers and youth workers spent a week in Wamena and its surroundings in December. They visited places where refugees were present, which are grouped together in small groups or in larger family units. Hom-Hom, Jalan Papua, Kimbim, Jalan Pintas 3, Walesi, Ilekma, Ilekma 3, Okubunke, Welesi Tikilmo and Yagara. A second mission visited displaced persons in March.
The group of volunteers is part of the medical team of Geraja Kristen Indonesia (GKI). The Rajori and Hapin Foundation have made these two missions of the team financially possible in a joint campaign. Hapin / Rajori’s contributions (around 10,000 euros) were mainly spent on medicines, drinking water, food, airline tickets and transport costs. The team sent us an insightful report of their findings. The medical team plans to undertake a total of 6 missions to Wamena. The team is eager to return and revisit the places. It is not yet clear whether and how the corona crisis interferes with the plans.
Shall we together ensure that the team can continue to provide this necessary care? Transfer your contribution to IBAN: NL37RABO0444072470 stating Nduga or donate online.
Pictures: Vembri Waluyas
