LocationsThe documentary film directed by Marco Venditti will get its premiere at Paradise Cinema at Vision City Mall on 20 March 2025.
A joint production between UNDP and Film-Bro, the film centers on the heroic work of activists combating the alarming spread of sorcery accusations in Papua New Guinea’s Southern Highlands Province. Through accounts from survivors and frontline responders, the film explores the causes behind the rising tide of violence and the challenges that both government and civil society face in combating it.
Activists featured in the film include Sister Lorrena, a Swiss nun who has rescued over 200 women accused of witchcraft through her ‘House of Hope’ shelter, and a group of Mendi-based students who are using the power of street theater to advocate against the practice. With generous funding from the United Kingdom, UNDP has actively supported the work of these activists through its programming in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea in recent years.
“From the coast to the highlands, sorcery accusation related violence is tearing apart the social fabric of Papua New Guinea. By producing this film about the brave efforts of activists, we wish to inspire every Papua New Guinean to join the growing movement against this senseless violence. We are particularly grateful to the United Kingdom for joining us in taking this bold stance against the evil of sorcery accusation related violence,” UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth, stated in anticipation of the premiere.
The premiere of the documentary will take place at 6-8PM on 20 March 2025 at the Premium Theater of Paradise Cinema at Vision City Mall. After the film screening, activists, Members of Parliament and other key stakeholders will participate in a discussion on solutions to eradicate sorcery accusations across Papua New Guinea.
Those interested in attending the premiere should reach out to gender.pg@undp.org for further information. Only about a hundred tickets are available for the first screening.
