Hello from Papua New Guinea!

Learn about Heavenly Father’s children all over the world.

Papua New Guinea is an island country in the Pacific Ocean. It covers one half of the island of New Guinea. More than 8 million people live there!

Languages

Papua New Guinea has more languages than any country in the world—around 840 languages!

Yu stap gut?

That means “how are you?” in Tok Pisin!

Chapels

Floods happen often in Papua New Guinea. So church buildings there are built on stilts. When a flood comes, members can paddle their canoes right up to the door!

Jungle Birds

Birds of paradise are shy jungle birds. The males have very beautiful and colorful wings. A Raggiana bird of paradise is on the country’s flag.

Sing-Sings

Tribes in Papua New Guinea gather to sing, dance, share traditions, and make friends. More than 100 tribes join in the largest sing-sing each year!

Activity

Giant Butterflies

Papua New Guinea has the largest kind of butterfly! Make your own butterfly. Gather sticks, leaves, and flowers to make the shape. Use the ruler on the right to see how the size of your butterfly’s wings compares.

Wingspan of Queen Alexandra’s birdwing: 28 cm (11 in)

Recipe

Chicken Pot

This is a traditional recipe in Papua New Guinea. Here is a version you can try!

1. Place 2 1/2 pounds (1 kg) chopped chicken in a pot and add 1/2 tablespoon cooking oil. Add 1 teaspoon each curry powder and 1 teaspoon of salt.

2. Chop 1 sweet potato (or vegetable of choice) and 1 bunch of green onions. Add to pot with 1 cup corn kernels.

3. Pour 1/2 cup coconut cream over vegetables and meat. Cover pot and bring to a low boil. Simmer for 30–40 minutes.

Be sure to get an adult’s help!

Illustrations by Zhen Liu