Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) has returned to Bougainville with strong government support, as it prepares to restore vital services to the region.
Story by, Kowara Bell
For most Bougainvilleans, the return of MAF means more than just re-establishing the aviation and technologies programme; rather, it marks the restoration of a valued partnership that once provided hope and essential goods and services to the region's isolated communities.
President Ishmael Toroama, leader of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), has welcomed the decision by MAF to operate in Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB).
“We are so glad that MAF has made a decision to establish operations in AROB,” said President Toroama in a formal letter of invitation.
“My government will do all we can to support you setting up operations in the region.
“I had personally written and met with your leadership to invite MAF to come and establish vital aviation and technologies services to the isolated communities across AROB.”
“After a thorough feasibility study, MAF is ready to serve together to bring help, hope and healing to remote communities in Bougainville, starting with the work of MAF Technologies”, says John Woodberry, MAF’s Launch Team Director.
“We look forward to helping the people through aviation and MAF Technologies, supporting the church, government, and development agencies in remote areas with services like aviation, solar power and HF radio for clinics, along with other initiatives," said John.
"We will be laying the groundwork, making sure all our permissions are in place, getting approval for land which MAF previously had when it served in Bougainville to rebuild a hangar, fuel storage facilities, and get housing for our staff fixed up and ready.”
Many locals have fondly recalled the impact of MAF’s previous presence in Bougainville and are now eagerly welcoming its much-anticipated return. Reverend Abraham Toroi, Bishop of the United Churches, said: “MAF contributed a lot to develop Bougainville, and the region has a very good history with MAF.”
MAF's first projects in Bougainville are intended to focus on technological training for pastors and leaders and small solar systems for remote schools, as it lays the groundwork for the aviation programme to start.