By DALCY LULUA
A BIRTH Certificate is a fundamental right that gives children access to essential services such as healthcare, education, child protection services and social security says UNICEF Representative Ms. Bernadette Haro.
Speaking on behalf of UNICEF Representative in Papua New Guinea (PNG) Dr. Veera Mendonca during the issuance of the first badge of Birth Certificates in Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). Ms. Haro said the UNICEF has reaffirmed its commitment to support the Government of PNG in ensuring that every child in Papua New Guinea has the right to a legal identity through birth registration.
“Birth registration is more than just a piece of paper, it is a fundamental right that unlocks a child’s access to essential services like health care, education and social protection. Yet too many children in Papua New Guinea remain invisible, deprived of opportunities they deserve simply because they are not officially recognized and registered, and that is why UNICEF is proud to support the Papua New Guinea’s Civil and Identity Registry (PNGCIR) in strengthening birth registration, particularly for children under 5 years.”
“Through our collaboration we aim to eliminate remoteness and inaccessibility to this vital service, raise awareness and reach the most remote communities to ensure that every child is counted.”
“I say this because even in Port Moresby, and other urban areas, remoteness and inaccessibility still prevalent,” said Ms. Haro.
Ms. Haro further added that UNICEF is committed to support PNGCIR to scale up this initiative by rolling out the mobile kits and digitalizing the birth registration process in PNG.
Acting Registrar General for PNGCIR Mrs. Salome Bogesia thanked the UNICEF for their commitment in supporting the 0-5 birth registration project and said she is looking forward to working with them.