Since 2021, Perdu (Community Development and Natural Resources Conservation), the Village Government, the community and WWF-Indonesia have been working collaboratively and participatively in Sarbe Village, located in the heart of Kuri District, as part of the impactful Voices for Just Climate Action (VCA) Program to support community livelihoods and strengthen sustainable practices. The initiative aims to strengthen indigenous communities and promote local nature-based solutions through climate action in the face of climate risk impacts. At the forefront of this effort is one woman, the unpretentious mama Mama Fransina Pigo, a dedicated local leader who serves as the District Secretary of Kuri. Her unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement has been key in driving the program's success.

These efforts eventually paid off. In September 2023, for the first time, Mama Fransina Pigo, the Aswaney group leader, coordinated the Women's Group in accessing funding assistance from the Teluk Bintuni Regency Community and Village Empowerment Office (DPMK). As a resource with capacity, Mama Fransina Pigo has taken the initiative to enable the women's group to advocate for funding policies at the Department of Community and Village Empowerment (DPMK) of Teluk Bintuni Regency in opening up opportunities and utilizing financial allocations related to climate action. With this new support, the group is poised to implement impactful projects that will uplift lives, foster self-reliance, and promote sustainable development in the region.

The persistence of Mama Fransina Pigo as the Chairperson of the Aswanei Group to run a business is very visible from her efforts in mobilizing the group and taking the initiative independently to distribute some of the anthill products made to Manokwari to be promoted in several places, such as at exhibitions and orders. In addition, Mama Fransina Pigo diligently underwent the process of obtaining a Business License (PIRT) for anthill products, one of which was by attending training to obtain a food security certificate by the Teluk Bintuni Regency Health Office as one of the requirements for PIRT processing until the PIRT for anthill products was successfully issued.

In November 2024, an inspiring story was etched in the journey of a strong woman from Sarbe Village, Mama Fransina Pigo. Amidst the hustle and bustle of Jakarta, at the Indonesian Climate Week event, she stood confidently as the representative of local champions from Perdu's assisted areas. With a warm smile and skillful hands, Mama Fransina showcases one of Papua's natural treasures-the anthill teabag. In the community corner, where the Tanah Papua VCA exhibition booth stands, Mama Fransina not only shows her skill in making anthill teabags, but also shares stories about her homeland. The anthill, which has been known as a medicinal plant with a myriad of benefits, symbolizes the struggle of the people of Sarbe Village to protect nature and empower themselves. The visitors who came were not only interested in the products offered, but were also touched by Mama Fransina's passion and dedication. With a soft but confident voice, she told the audience how the ant nests are harvested sustainably without damaging the Papuan forest ecosystem. She explained that every cup of tea they enjoy is the result of hard work and love for nature.

That moment witnessed how a woman from remote Papua was able to bring a big story to the national stage. Not only about products, but also about hope, sustainability and a better future. Mama Fransina has proven that big changes can start from small steps in the community. Through Indonesian Climate Week, she not only promotes anthill teabags, but also inspires people to care more about the environment and support local products. Her passion is clear evidence that every individual has an important role to play in protecting our planet. Mama Fransina Pigo is the face of hope from the Land of Papua story that will live on in the hearts of many.

In December 2024, DPMK Teluk Bintuni Regency responded and provided funding assistance proposed by Mama Fransina Pigo for the Aswanei women's business group in Sarbe Village in the amount of Rp350,000,000. The funds were provided in the form of training in sago-based baking, a smart move that utilizes local wealth and turns it into an economic opportunity. Not only that, each women's business group also received the tools and materials they needed to start or expand their business. It's not just about material handouts, but also about building confidence and self-reliance. Under her leadership, Aswanei has become a symbol of women's struggle and awakening in Sarbe Village. Now, she is handing over the baton, but her footsteps will be remembered. Every cookie dough they make, every laugh heard in the middle of the training, is proof that change is possible. Mama Fransina's journey may have ended, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of the women of Aswanei.

The example of Mama Fransina Pigo will be remembered for all time, be consistent in thought, word and deed because nothing is impossible, as long as our intentions and practices are sincere for the universe. Goodbye Mama Fransina, best wishes from us.

In memoria, March 2, 2025.