230526 Bougainville Women’s Federation Witnesses Historic Reconciliation

The Bougainville Women’s Federation witnessed a historic reconciliation ceremony between the chiefs of Ieta at Busbin Village on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

The reconciliation ceremony marked the unification of the four clan chiefs and is being regarded as a significant step towards restoring customary leadership and promoting sustainable progress for the proposed 700-meter extension of the Buka Airport.

Representing the women of Bougainville at the ceremony was Bougainville Women’s Federation President, Barbara Tanne. Her presence symbolized the support of Bougainville women towards peace, unity and development within the Ieta community.

During the reconciliation, the chiefs openly shared their concerns and reflected on the divisions that had existed among them in the past. They acknowledged that disunity and lack of peace had affected not only relationships within the community but also broader development aspirations for Ieta.

The four chiefs affirmed before those gathered that the historic reconciliation would pave the way for a new and united Ieta. They emphasized that their renewed unity would now ensure the common good and future prosperity of the people of Ieta.

The reconciliation involved the Nakaripa Clan and the Naboen Clan. The four chiefs from Ieta who reconciled are Herman Tugan and David Nionem of the Nakaripa Clan, and Joseph Mobisi and Raymond Hakena of the Naboen Clan.

Differences between the clans had previously delayed the redevelopment and extension plans for Buka Airport. The chiefs and Community leaders expressed hope that the reconciliation would now create a conducive environment for progress and cooperation.

The reconciliation was facilitated by the newly formed Ieta Elite Consultative Association (IECA), which has been working to promote unity, dialogue and community-driven development initiatives within Ieta.

Also present at the ceremony was the ABG Member for Tsitalato Honourable John Bosco Ragu, who expressed strong support for the chiefs and the reconciliation process. Hon. Ragu stated that the proposed 700-meter extension of Buka Airport must proceed, stressing that the future of Bougainville must reflect tangible development through high-impact projects that benefit the people.

He further emphasized that the proposed airport development is not only for the people of Ieta, but also for Tsitalato and Bougainville as a whole. He called on the young people of Ieta to stand up, remain strong and support development initiatives that contribute towards progress and a better future for their communities.

Speaking on the importance of reconciliation, leaders present acknowledged that peace and unity within communities are essential foundations for development, stability and social wellbeing. Reconciliation not only restores relationships among leaders and families, but also strengthens trust, cooperation and collective responsibility for future generations.

The ceremony also highlighted the positive impact reconciliation has on women and girls. In many communities, women and children are often the most affected by conflict, division and prolonged disputes. Community unrest can limit opportunities for women’s participation, disrupt livelihoods, and affect the safety and wellbeing of families.

Leaders and participants noted that peaceful and united communities create safer environments for women and girls, improve opportunities for education and economic participation, and allow women to contribute meaningfully to community development and decision-making. The reconciliation was therefore seen not only as a restoration of peace among chiefs, but also as an important step towards creating a more secure and hopeful future for the women, children and people of Ieta.