As a new Mission Aviation Fellowship hangar rises from what was once grassland, it marks a hopeful new chapter of transformation for the children of Western Province
Story by Amanda Anton
A prayer and dedication service has been held for a new MAF hangar in Balimo, a district centre in the vast Western Province of Papua New Guinea. For generations, people of this area have struggled to overcome isolation caused by countless swamps, rivers and lakes that are surrounded by dense rainforest and expansive savannah.
The dedication of the new facility marks a special occasion for the MAF Ground Operations team and the local community—and represents a new level of transformative service for the region.
Education is key for such a growing region like Balimo and MAF is making sure we do our part in this development of our young.
During the event MAF’s Balimo Base Manager Simon Wakili emphasised the importance of education and the impact that MAF and the new hangar will have on the people of Western Province.
“Education is key for such a growing region like Balimo and MAF is making sure we do our part in this development of our young,” he said.
“We fly students, teachers, school inspectors, training staff, Flexible Open and Distance Education staff, government educational staff, and school materials to and from the remote communities
“Our mission, ‘flying for life’ is more than a slogan. It reminds us that every flight has a purpose and every mission makes a difference in someone’s life.”
Secondary school inspector Baiyasa William was flown in by MAF to perform his first advisory visit to schools in Balimo. A local from the Gogodala people group, Baiyasa reflected on his personal connection to the land on which the facility now stands.
I remember this area was clear, only grassland; I would travel back and forth here on foot—not by plane—to school. This place is history now.
“I am surprised and honoured to be the first recipient of this new hangar,” he said on arrival as the first passenger to use the facility. “I remember this area was clear, only grassland; I would travel back and forth here on foot—not by plane—to school. This place is history now.
“I am sure after me there will be lots of teachers, students, parents and of course, government and private sector persons to travel and use this hangar.”
Simon acknowledged his hardworking team and the pilots for their commitment and teamwork while adhering to the organisation’s mission, vision and values.
Our mission, ‘flying for life’ is more than a slogan.
“Thank you for your dedication and for always striving for excellence as you enter every mission call,” he said.
“May this facility serve our mission well for many years to come. And may God continue to bless MAF, our partners and the people we are privileged to serve.”
The new Balimo base is expected to have an official opening ceremony with local partners and stakeholders in the coming months.