The Mekmek people are an indigenous group who inhabit the mountainous regions of the Madang Province in north central Papua New Guinea (PNG). They are part of the larger Sepik River region and are known for their cultural forms and unique way of life.
The history of the Mekmek people is marked by a deep connection to the land and a rich oral tradition. Their ancestors probably came from the mountains of the Sepik region and settled in the area thousands of years ago. The Mekmek people believe that their ancestors are still present in the landscape and that their spirits continue to guide and protect them.
PNG became an independent nation in 1975 after having been a territory governed by Australia. PNG was a battleground in WWII between the Japanese and the Allies. Australia is still the major trade partner with PNG and provides assistance in many areas.
The Mekmek speak their language of Mekmek. There are currently no Christian resources available in Mekmek. A Bible translation is needed.
The Mekmek people are primarily subsistence farmers, growing crops such as taro, yams, and bananas. They also engage in hunting and fishing to supplement their diet. In recent years, some Mekmek people have begun to engage in cash-crop agriculture, growing crops such as coffee and cocoa for sale in local markets.
The Mekmek people have their own artistic tradition and are known for their woodcarvings, masks, and other traditional crafts. They use these objects in their rituals and ceremonies, which are an important part of their belief system.
They have traditionally used a system of rotational farming, which allows the land to regenerate and remain healthy. In recent years, however, the Mekmek people have faced increasing pressure from outside forces, including logging and mining companies, which threaten the health of the land and the survival of their traditional way of life.
The Mekmek people have a complex social structure, with a strong emphasis on kinship and family relationships. They live in small villages, which are led by a village headman who is responsible for mediating disputes and overseeing the affairs of the community. The Mekmek people also have a system of clans, which are defined by their shared ancestry and are responsible for organizing and carrying out important social events.
The Mekmek people have no road access to services. To reach a major service center, they must walk to the Sepik River or to one of its tributaries and then catch a boat to Angoram town. Mekmek population growth has been less than one per cent a year between 1970 and 2000. This is considerably below the national average and may indicate a comparatively low level of health services. Access to clean water may also be an issue, as it is in the neighboring district of Wewak.
Literacy rates among the Mekmek are also low. Less than 15 percent can read and write, because education opportunities are limited. Low literacy levels make it difficult for the Mekmek to know about events outside their borders or to participate in decision making that impacts on their lives. Low literacy also cuts them off from reading God’s written word.
The majority of the Mekmek claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. Their traditional religion of animism and ancestor veneration is deeply embedded in their culture.
The Mekmek people of PNG have many needs. They need to learn literary skills to be able to read the Bible. They would greatly benefit by the introduction of modern medicine. Most of all, the Mekmek need to be taught the ways of the Lord.
Pray that the Mekmek would thirst for Jesus and drink deeply from his Holy Spirit and his word.
Pray that Mekmek believers may experience Jesus in a real and tangible way.
Ask the Lord to send teachers to the Mekmek to help them learn literary skills.
Pray that the Mekmek soon would know the joy of having and reading the word of God in their own language.
Scripture Prayers for the Mekmek in Papua New Guinea.
The National Research Institute 2010, Papua New Guinea District and Provincial Profiles, link here.
National Economic & Fiscal Commission 2014, Go Long Ples Reducing inequality in education funding, A Report by the National Economic & Fiscal Commission
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
