CPL Foundation Inc. Continues Support for Josephine Durua and Morata Safe House

Josephine Durua is a Human Rights Defender and Village Court Magistrate who has been confronting sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) in Morata, Port Moresby for 25 years. In 1998, Josephine was a victim of SARV in her own community. Two years later, she opened a small safe house there to shelter other survivors of SARV. In 2010, Josephine cleared her name of sorcery allegations in district court, formally registered the safe house, and was appointed as a Village Court Magistrate, strengthening her ability to advocate for survivors and deliver justice.

Josephine’s safe house remains the only dedicated refuge in Port Moresby for SARV survivors. It is modest, with electricity but no running water or proper sanitation. Despite these challenges, she has turned it into a space of safety and hope for those who need it most.

In 2015, CPL Foundation honoured Josephine with the Pride of PNG Women Award for Bravery and Courage in recognition of her tireless work supporting survivors of SARV.

For the past 10 years, we have quietly supported Josephine’s mission, providing building materials and food to keep the safe house running. In 2023, the Foundation purchased a kit home to create a safer, more liveable space for survivors, but construction was halted when it was confirmed that the safe house sits on white land.

Since then, CPL Foundation has been working to secure a permanent site nearby to build a proper facility. The cost of securing titled land is a significant factor, and one option being explored is fundraising in partnership with Josephine to make this vision a reality.

Last week, the Foundation team visited the safe house to donate a set of cooking appliances and to reaffirm our commitment to finding a permanent site.

“Josephine’s courage and commitment are extraordinary,” said Deborah Alois, Manager of CPL Foundation Inc. “We are proud to keep supporting her.”

“I’m grateful for CPL Foundation’s support,” said Josephine Durua. “It has helped us keep the doors of the safe house open for survivors.”

If you or your organization would like to help secure a permanent site for Josephine’s safe house in Morata, please get in touch. Together, we can ensure survivors of SARV have a stable place where they are protected and empowered.