A Papua New Guinean was among top five Red Cross officials awarded a prestigious -first of its kind-award in Geneva.
Bougainvillean, Aidah Kenneth, 52, from Tegese Village, Buka Island, has been awarded the medal under the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) – the Movement Family Links award.
Aidah was not able to receive her medal in person in Geneva due to visa issues among other mishaps. She travelled as far as Singapore only to be turned back because her documents sent from Port Moresby was not in order.
She also missed out on very important Council scheduled meetings.
She was recognised for 20 years of her work, 12 years as volunteer, then as chairlady and now co-ordinator of Red Cross on Bougainville.
The PNG National Red Cross chairman John Hosea received her award on her behalf at 6pm Sunday, Geneva time, 4am Monday PNG time.
Her synopsis was read out: Today we honour Aidah Kenneth who’s journey with the Papua New Guinea Red Cross began in 2008 following her distinguished teaching career. Aidah’s dedication to helping the people living in most vulnerable settings has seen her rise from volunteer to chairperson and now coordinator for the Autonomous Bougainville.
“Since 2017, despite limited resources she has led the recruitment of dedicated team of 25 volunteers from across Bougainville reaching even the remotest area to locate and interview families of missing persons.
“Her relentless work has allowed these families who often remain invisible to register their missing loved ones officially, marking the fastest steps in creating Bougainville’s registry of missing persons and ensuring that the needs of these families are not forgotten, even 25 years after the conflict ended.
“Aidah’s compassion, integrity and courage have transformed lives. She’s a beacon of hope and trust reminding us that even years after conflict, healing and answers are possible. “Thank you Aidah.”