Papua New Guinea
Global Humanitarian Network Partner:
Samaritan Aviation
Samaritan Aviation is a nonprofit humanitarian aid organization that provides vital services to remote regions in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The organization’s work is particularly critical given that the region served is surrounded by dense jungle, with no access to roads or emergency medical services.
Samaritan Aviation’s services include emergency evacuation flights, medicine delivery and community health programs — all of which are aimed at improving the health and well-being of the roughly 220,000 people they serve. The organization’s emergency evacuation flights are particularly important, as they provide critically ill or injured patients with access to medical care that would otherwise be unavailable.
In addition to the services they provide, Samaritan Aviation also receives support from Wings of Hope. Wings of Hope provides fuel stipends, sources parts and supplies, assists with storage of the aircraft in the United States, provides support for a nurse training program and strategic planning support. The aim of this support is to ensure Samaritan Aviation’s ability to continue providing lifesaving services.
Samaritan Aviation’s work is a testament to the importance of providing access to health care and emergency services in remote regions of the world. Their efforts to provide emergency evacuation flights, medicine delivery and community health programs are improving the health and well-being of thousands of people who would otherwise be without access to these essential services.
Independent State of Papua New Guinea
Capital: Port Moresby
Currency: Papua New Guinean Kina
Language: Tok Pisin
Landmarks: Kokoda Track, Port Moresby Nature Park, Mount Wilhelm
Geography:
Papua New Guinea is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, occupying the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, as well as numerous offshore islands. To the west, Papua New Guinea shares a border with Indonesia. To the north, it is bounded by the Pacific Ocean. The country also shares maritime borders with Australia to the south.
Papua New Guinea’s geography is characterized by rugged mountain ranges, dense rainforests, and extensive coastline. The central part of the island is dominated by the rugged Central Highlands, which are home to some of the tallest peaks in Oceania. The coastline is dotted with numerous islands, coral reefs, and mangrove swamps. Additionally, Papua New Guinea lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
Located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, PNG is one of the oldest continuous cultures on the planet, with human settlements dating back to about 50,000-60,000 years ago. PNG has incredible ethnic and linguistic diversity. The Dutch navigator, Willem Janszoon, made the first known European contact with the island in 1606, after which various European powers such as the Germans and the British explored and claimed different parts of the island. PNG was officially divided between Britain and Germany in 1884, with the northern part becoming a British colony and the southern part becoming a German colony. After World War I, PNG came under Australian control and remained so until it gained independence in 1975. Despite facing challenges such as political instability, lack of infrastructure and economic development, and tribal divisions, PNG has made significant progress in recent years. Its economy, which largely depends on agriculture and forestry, is gradually improving as the government works to develop the country’s resources and improve infrastructure. PNG remains a colorful and diverse country with a unique cultural heritage.
Located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, PNG is one of the oldest continuous cultures on the planet, with human settlements dating back to about 50,000-60,000 years ago. PNG has incredible ethnic and linguistic diversity due to its harsh geography that isolated many groups. The Dutch navigator, Willem Janszoon, made the first known European contact with the island in 1606, after which various European powers such as the Germans and the British explored and claimed different parts of the island. PNG was officially divided between Britain and Germany in 1884, with the northern part becoming a British colony and the southern part becoming a German colony. After World War I, PNG came under Australian control and remained so until it gained independence in 1975. Despite facing challenges such as political instability, lack of infrastructure and economic development, and tribal and cultural divisions, PNG has made significant progress in recent years. Its economy, which largely depends on agriculture and forestry, is gradually improving as the government works to develop the country’s resources and improve infrastructure. Despite internal conflicts, PNG remains a colorful and diverse country with a unique cultural heritage.
Saving Lives from the Skies:
Samaritan Aviation's Lifesaving Work in Papua New Guinea
Samaritan Aviation is a team of dedicated and compassionate individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Through their lifesaving work, they provide essential medical care to the people of Papua New Guinea’s remote communities, often in areas that are inaccessible by road. The team is made up of highly skilled pilots and medical professionals who are driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to serve others. With a focus on building strong relationships with the communities they serve, Samaritan Aviation can provide personalized care that truly makes a difference.