Everyday People PNG: Belinda Kuri – A life on the highway

Hello my name is Belinda Kuri and I come from Goi Village in the Chuave District of Chimbu Province.

Being raised in the village, I have a love for the outdoors and living off the land, and since marrying a man from Kairuku, I get to experience much of this and more in the village.

My grandmother and aunties raised me when my parents separated; I was about seven years old at the time and now being a parent myself, I commit my time and energy to our daughter, who is my entire world.

I am a stay at home mum but I am also my husband’s right hand lady when he needs assistance moving from Port Moresby to his village Nabua Paka in Kairuku, Central Province for work or other.

I love to travel the old Hiritano Highway and I find the people all along the way to be peaceful and hospitable.

My husband and I do what we can to help the people in his village and the nearby areas as well because life is quite a struggle for most here. With the privileges we are blessed with, it is always good to pay it forward by giving a helping hand where it is needed most.

I learnt to catch my own meals while living in the village whether it be on land or sea, and I opt for a kulau (young coconut) than drinking store bought thirst quenchers, and yes, I can never say no to the infamous Yabi (betelnut).

I have several dogs and we go out everywhere exploring the villages or to the gardens. They have even helped to provide food with capturing a wild pig that fed many.

Helping people in these parts is something my husband and I are passionate about and with transportation being a common and main need, we are always ready to provide assistance when it arises.

Food becomes scarce here during the rain seasons as it causes floods, so when it is possible I grow pumpkins and bananas with the villagers. If we reach a good harvest, the bounty is shared with everyone.

Life in the village is not everyone’s cup of tea but I love it and it teaches us to be humble and grateful. 

Author: 
Carol Kidu