LocationsIn May 2025, UNDP opened a new market in Suku Valley, where UNDP and the Catholic Diocese negotiated a historic peace agreement in 2023.
'Suku Valley is coming back to life:' A Story of Reconciliation and Revival
May 25, 2025
The British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, H.E. Anne Macro, participated in the inauguration ceremony
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Juho Valta
In a significant stride towards recovery and reconciliation, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the British High Commission recently inaugurated a new marketplace in Suku Valley, Southern Highlands Province. This development marks a pivotal moment in the region's journey from conflict to peace.
From 2019 to 2023, Suku Valley was engulfed in a devastating conflict involving nine clans. The violence led to the displacement of over 40,000 individuals, with communities torn apart and essential infrastructure destroyed. The once-thriving valley became a symbol of the profound impact of inter-clan disputes on local populations.
Hundreds of people from all nine clans in Suku Valley participated in the opening of the market
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Juho Valta
In 2023, UNDP, in collaboration with the Catholic Diocese of Mendi, brokered a historic peace agreement among the warring clans. This initiative, generously supported by the United Kingdom and the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, facilitated dialogue and reconciliation, laying the foundation for sustainable peace and development in the region. The peace agreement signing ceremony was a result of everyone's collaboration and participation, including local leaders, the Catholic Diocese of Mendi team, ex-fighters, NGOs, youth and women representatives, and government law enforcement agencies.
Youth representative from West Suku, Felix Tasi, gave an emotioned speech on how the conflict affected local youth.
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Juho Valta
The newly opened market stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Suku Valley communities. During the inauguration, Felix Tasi, a youth leader from West Suku, expressed the collective sentiment:
“Suku Valley used to be a place of peace-loving people. It was only in 2019 when a disaster hit us and plunged us into darkness. Because of this, our basic services and infrastructure remain limited. On behalf of the youth of Suku, thank you for initiating this project and relieving the burdens we face. The people of Suku Valley, don’t let this disaster never repeat again!”
The new market will provide local women an opportunity to earn an income and contribute to their families wellbeing.
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Juho Valta
UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth, highlighted the transformative journey of the valley:
“Just two years ago, everything in Suku Valley had been destroyed by the conflict. There were no schools, markets, or gardens. Today, Suku Valley is coming back to life! You must continue to work hard together to rebuild your communities. Without peace, you cannot have a good life and a bright future.”
British High Commissioner to PNG, H.E. Anne Macro, commended the communities for their success in maintaining peace in the valley.
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Juho Valta
British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, H.E. Anne Macro, commended the communities for their commitment to peace and unity:
“You, the people of Suku Valley, have proved that it is possible to break the cycle of violence and build a better future for everyone. This marketplace is a visible symbol of your efforts, hard work, and courage. There will still be challenges ahead, but you have shown that you can meet these challenges. You have learned to listen to each other and resolve differences with words, not weapons.”
The reopening of the Suku Valley market is more than just the restoration of a physical space; it symbolizes the community's collective effort to rebuild and heal. With continued support and collaboration, Suku Valley stands as a beacon of hope and a model for peacebuilding in Papua New Guinea.