Eighteen chairladies and their secretaries representing the Upper, Middle, and Lower Fly Middle Fly Villages gathered at the Cassowary Hotel in Kiunga on 19 November for the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Middle Fly Women and Children Association. The event, supported by the Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF), brought together women leaders who continue to play a vital role in driving community development across the 18 MF Villages.
The AGM served as an important forum for reviewing progress made throughout the year, addressing administrative challenges, and reinforcing the principles of good governance within the association. It also offered a space for the leaders to reflect on how their work aligns with broader community development goals facilitated through OTDF partnerships.
A key component of the meeting involved a guided review of the association’s constitution and operational guidelines. Ms. Bala Tedumo, Community Development Officer for Middle Fly, led this session, walking the women through the proposed changes and discussions. She encouraged the leaders to embrace transparency and accountability as pillars of their leadership.
“The way forward for you women to lead with good governance is to be transparent and stand as a partner in development,” Ms. Tedumo emphasised.
Her message set the tone for the day, reminding participants of their influence within their communities and the importance of strong governance structures to guide their decisions.
Association President, Mrs. Charlotte Matthews, commended the chairladies and secretaries for their resilience and commitment throughout the year. She acknowledged the challenges often experienced during discussions and decision-making processes but highlighted how these moments strengthen leadership capacity.
“Thank you, Chairladies and secretaries, for being harsh sometimes and arguing with us. Those are the things that we use to help correct and shape us to be better leaders,” Mrs. Matthews said, drawing appreciative smiles from the room.
One of the meeting’s most inspiring contributions came from Mrs. Regina Albert, Chairlady for Aiambak, who called on the leaders to embrace unity and mutual support as they carry out their responsibilities.
“Let us work together and not in isolation! We have willingly put our hands up to be leaders so let us not be complacent and go out and do what’s best for our communities with heart,” she urged.
Her encouragement reinforced the shared belief that leadership is not an individual endeavour but a collective commitment to improve the quality of life for families and children throughout the region.
The AGM concluded with renewed motivation among the participants, who collectively endorsed the revised constitution and pledged to continue strengthening the association’s work. Participants expressed gratitude for the support provided by OTDF, acknowledging the Foundation’s ongoing role in empowering women and connecting communities to sustainable development opportunities.
