The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has successfully concluded its awareness and public engagement activities at the 70th Goroka Show, with hundreds of visitors stopping by the Commission’s information and awareness stall at the National Sports Institute in Goroka.
The initiative provided a valuable opportunity for the ICAC team to engage directly with members of the public and educate them about the Commission’s mandate, roles, and functions. Throughout the show, the team answered frequently asked questions, explained how members of the public can report suspected corrupt conduct to the ICAC, and shared information on how communities can work together to reduce, prevent, and combat corruption in Papua New Guinea.
The stall attracted a diverse audience, including public servants, individuals from private companies, local community leaders, youth, and students and the international tourists. Visitors took the opportunity to learn more about the Commission’s work and discuss the impact corruption has on their communities, workplaces, and daily lives.
Many of those who visited the stall expressed distress over impacts of corruption and they were pleased that information about the ICAC had been brought directly to them. Visitors also shared their willingness to be part of the fight against corruption, with many indicating they wanted to join hands with the Commission in promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in society through reporting suspected corrupt conduct to the ICAC.
A common concern raised during the engagement was that many people had witnessed or experienced corruption in some form but did not know where or how to report it.
“Pasin korapsen save kamap arere long mipela tasol mipela no save how long ripotim (Corruption is something we see happening around us, but many of us never knew who to report it to or what steps to take.),” a member of the public said.
Another said, “Thank you for coming to us. Having the ICAC here has given us the information and confidence we need to speak up and do something about it.”
The awareness initiative also received strong support from public servants who visited the stall. Many spoke openly about the negative effects corruption has on public services, economic opportunities, and community development.
One public servant remarked: “We have had enough of the impacts of corruption. It affects our livelihoods, delays essential services, takes away opportunities from ordinary people, and weakens trust in our institutions. We all have a responsibility to stand against corruption and be part of the solution.”
The positive response received throughout the event reinforces the importance of community engagement and public education in the fight against corruption. The high level of interest and participation demonstrated that Papua New Guineans are eager to learn more about corruption issues and how they can contribute to building a more transparent and accountable society.
The ICAC remains committed to bringing essential information about its roles and functions closer to communities across the country and ensuring that members of the public understand how they can safely and confidently report corruption. Through continued awareness and outreach activities, the Commission will continue working with citizens, communities, and stakeholders to strengthen collective efforts to reduce, prevent, and combat corruption in Papua New Guinea.