Geoff Scahill, Abt’s vice president program delivery, said the award for women’s literature will be given for the most outstanding piece of writing that reflects the distinct experiences of women in PNG.

“We are pleased to support this great initiative, which gives a voice to the diverse perspectives of Papua New Guineans,” he said.

“Abt is a strong advocate for empowerment and equity for all women and this goal is at the heart of our activities in PNG and around the world.

“The award for women’s literature fits our PNG-grown vision, Skelim Pawa, Stretim Pasin (Shared Power, Aligned Actions).

“We are committed to supporting PNG organisations and individuals, be it through the Crocodile Prize, the Medical Society or the Lik Lik Skul Foundation.”

The generous support from Abt will see the eventual winner receive K5,000 prize money and – most importantly – outstanding entries will be immortalised in the Crocodile Prize anthology, which is published and distributed throughout PNG and beyond.

Abt has a deep association with PNG that began two decades ago with the specialist delivery of health services.

Today, its works covers health, leadership development, decentralisation, citizen engagement, economic governance and inclusive growth.

This supports security, stability and basic service delivery for all Papua New Guineans.

Entries to the award for women’s literature are open to all Papua New Guinean women and the writing may cover short stories, essays, journalism and poetry.

For entry information visit www.crocodile-prize.com or www.facebook.com/thecrocodileprize