Wokbung Wantaim

Connecting PNG and the World, One Wave at a Time Today, 13 February 2024 is the World Radio Day. Here is one for this day! Even where there is no road, bridges, jetties, airfield, radio can connect a people thousand miles together in one space and time, bringing a sense of togetherness. Even where there is no electricity to power up lighting, radio can bring information to far and wide raising awareness and bring a light of hope. Here in Papua New Guinea, amidst the lush rainforests and rugged mountains, radio remains the lifeline, the voice that unites and informs. This isn't just a romantic notion. The power of radio has been demonstrably proven throughout history: **1. WW2: Defying Nazi Lies, London Calling:** During the darkest hours of World War II (1939-1945), amidst Nazi propaganda, BBC Radio's "London Calling" became a beacon of truth for occupied Europe. Broadcasts in multiple languages offered news, hope, and a sense of unity to those resisting tyranny, prov

Bridging the Communication gap - EQUIPING REMOTE RURAL WOMEN WITH AN AM-RECIEVER RADIO. Don't underestimate the crackle: Why AM radio thrives in the age of the internet In a world buzzing with high-speed internet and endless digital streams, it's tempting to dismiss AM radio as a relic of the past. Yet, amidst the sleek smartphones and ubiquitous Wi-Fi, AM radio quietly continues to play a vital role, especially in the forgotten corners of our world - the remote rural communities. While internet connectivity might seem like the ultimate information gateway, the reality is starkly different for many. In remote areas, the internet remains a distant dream, leaving communities isolated from the information wave. This is where AM radio steps in, its simple technology transcending limitations. Powered by a humble hand crank, it delivers news, education, and entertainment, bridging the communication gap and empowering those often left behind. AM radio's relevance lies in its acces

  The old radio can still connect PNG's Rural Heart. Something the current desire for modern tech advancement still struggles to get it right. Source: Alamy photos Remember those evenings in the 90s when you visit the village, bathed in the warm glow of the fire under the smoky thatched roof? You all gathered around the fire, and the gentle hiss of your uncle's kettle sings a counterpoint to the crackle and pop of the AM/SW radio as he wrestles the dial. Suddenly strange foreign languages flitting by, then the sweet relief of that familiar voice – NBC National, NBC Morobe. Your uncle hushes everyone, hoping to catch news relevant to him, his village, maybe even a teacher's posting or a health notice. Simple, yes, but it worked. Everyone, even in the most remote corners, knew when to tune in, creating a shared space for vital information. Fast forward to today. Communication has exploded, a cacophony of options – FM stations, pre-loaded USB drives, the siren song of social m

Many Papua New Guineans, like citizens across the globe, view politics through a narrow lens, focusing solely on immediate, tangible outcomes. We cheer for leaders who deliver roads, schools, and jobs, mistakenly believing these are the sole markers of political success. But like an iceberg, the true influence of politics lies beneath the surface, shaping our culture, language, way of life, and even our core identity in ways we often fail to recognize. Let me tell you about a fascinating experiment conducted on a grasshopper that sheds light on this hidden influence. The experiment involved a common grasshopper, known for its impressive jumping ability, typically reaching heights of about one meter. The researchers placed the grasshopper in a transparent container with specific dimensions: 15 centimeters high. This seemingly innocuous container would become the grasshopper's world for the next 24 hours. At first, the grasshopper hopped freely within the container, attempting its us

  Against the odds: The positive vibe, thrilled and persistent The 34th ELCPNG Synod in Ialibu promised a monumental event, and our audio/visual team was determined to make it shine. But little did we know, what awaited us was an odyssey of unexpected hurdles and ingenious solutions. Buckle up, for this is a tale of unwavering dedication and triumph in the face of adversity. Planning Under Fire: A Month to MacGyver Magic We knew our PTZ cameras, SRT protocol, VMix, and VSAT setup would be the magic wands. But with equipment arriving just one month before the event, we had to channel our inner MacGyvers. Sleepless nights were spent reworking plans, meticulously reviewing site surveys, and conducting endless test runs. Landing in Ialibu: Time Crunch Meets Construction Chaos We arrived with 72 hours in hand, only to find the main hall shrouded in construction dust. No space to unpack, no power – just 24 hours before the grand opening. Undeterred, we scoured a nearby school library, but th

  MV Ialibu: A Ship's Name Rooted in Faith but met with controversy The MV Ialibu, a vessel owned by ELCPNG and operated by iroks limited, is more than just a ship. For those who don't know its story take the name as a source of controversy when it was first launched back in 2019 but for those who knew, the name always stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Lutheran missions in Papua New Guinea. Initially, the choice of "Ialibu" for a seafaring vessel raised eyebrows. After all, Ialibu is a landlocked mountain region, 2,000 meters above the waves. Whispers of political influence swirled, linking the name to a hefty government donation by then-Prime Minister Peter O'Neill, who represented the Ialibu/Pangia district. It was O'Neil who donated the 10million kina of public funds and as expected the rumors of controversy in naming the ship. But the name ialibu was more than just a political electorate. The story goes deeper, beyond whispers and controversi

The beat of the Kundu drums, a rhythm so strong. Bringing people together, with joy in their hearts, A celebration of life, to share and rejoice. A symbol of peace and joy. The spear, a symbol of defenders and warlords, a tool of the hunters. To protect the people, to fight for justice, to hunt and feed. A symbol of strength and responsibility.  The pig tusk, a traditional money and economy, a token of systematic intelligence for sustainability of life. A symbol of pride and a tale of wealth & prosperity. Together they reveal Pasin Morobe All resting on the Kumul blong Morobe, giving it meaning, a mere symbol without substance. A skinny bird, only covered with big colourful features. Too afraid to fly off the branches itself into the strong wind. But with the three, In Anutu We Trust and Prosper. ********** WGuti - 5th February 2023