Kastom Giraun is the title of a new book and website launched by the community advocacy organisation ACT NOW! to help educate young people on the value and importance of customary land.

ACT NOW! plans to distribute more than 30,000 copies of the 24-page Kastom Giraun book to secondary schools across the country this year together with educational tools for teachers.

“Customary land is not only our nation’s most important economic and social asset”, says ACT NOW Campaign Manager, Eddie Tanago. “Our customary land is what makes us Papua New Guinean and our relationship with our land defines our unique cultures and customs.”

“It is crucial that young people understand the need to protect customary land, so it can continue to support the lives and livelihoods of the vast majority of our population and our unique PNG ways. Customary land is the resource on which we must build our future, just as our Constitution says.”

As well as explaining the economic, social and cultural importance of customary land, Kastom Giraun explains how this unique form of land tenure differs from how land is seen and used in most other countries. It also explores the threats posed by land registration and industries like logging, mining and oil palm.

“Customary land is a vital economic resources that sustains our economy and the lives of millions of people” says Eddie Tanago, “but that economic value also means it is under threat. Foreign business people, politicians and local elites want to take our customary land and exploit it for their own profit.”

Kastom Giraun explains how once customary land is registered or an Incorporated Land Group is formed, control over the land is taken away from local people and placed in the hands of a small committee. Decisions can then be made in secret and control over land given away to foreign logging or mining companies.

The richly illustrated Kastom Giraun book is available to download or purchase via the website which also features a range of multi-media presentations and interactive learning opportunities.

These include a video explainer, audio podcast, slideshow, flashcards, a mind-map and a quiz.

Schools, teachers and community groups wanting to obtain copies of the Kastom Giraun book can contact ACT NOW at info@actnowpng.org or visit the website, www.kastomgiraun.org

Hard copies of the book are also available for the general public to order online at www.actnowpng.org/shop

ACT NOW says everyone is encouraged to visit the Kastom Giraun website to read the book, watch the video, listen to the podcast, and explore the interactive tools and to test their knowledge by completing the quiz.