The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has conducted initial needs assessments in Kuimanda Ward 20, home to the Itokon Tribe, and Kaekin Paus Ward 19, home to the Kaekin Tribe, in Middle Lai, Wapenamanda Rural Local-Level Government (LLG), Wapenamanda District, Enga Province, to support community-led peacebuilding, recovery and development planning.
The assessments took place in the beginning of this month in Kuimanda and in Kaekin Pausa, bringing together more than 40 community members in Kuimanda and approximately 45 participants in Kaekin Pausa.
Both neighbouring communities were affected by tribal conflicts across Middle Lai, stretching from Tsak Valley to Aiyel Valley and involving communities associated with the Yopo and Palinau alliances. Following recent peace efforts, communities are working towards returning home, resettling and rebuilding their lives.
Through key informant interviews, focus group discussions and community consultations, IOM engaged community leaders and residents to understand their concerns, identify priority needs and explore locally driven solutions for peace, recovery and sustainable development.
The assessments form part of the Community Peace and Development Planning (CPDP) process supported through the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund. The process aims to empower communities to identify and prioritise their own needs, strengthen local ownership of peacebuilding initiatives and guide future recovery and development interventions.
Discussions highlighted the importance of addressing community priorities as families work to rebuild their lives following conflict. Inclusive planning and community participation are essential to identifying practical solutions that respond to local needs and help prevent renewed tensions.
The communities’ location along the Highlands Highway also presents an important opportunity to strengthen connectivity and restore links between people, essential services, livelihoods and local markets as peace and recovery efforts progress.
IOM acknowledges and appreciates the cooperation, openness and active participation of the leaders and community members of Kuimanda and Kaekin Paus. Their engagement demonstrates the importance of dialogue, collaboration and community ownership in building lasting peace.
IOM will continue to work with local communities, the Enga Provincial Government and relevant partners to support inclusive, locally led peacebuilding and development planning across Enga Province, helping communities establish priorities for peaceful coexistence, recovery and a more resilient future.