New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins paid today an official visit to the Gordons market at 10:30 am.
The new Gordons market was a project that was funded by the people and the Government of New Zealand.
The New Zealand Government gave K15million for the new Gordons market.
The market which was opened in November 6th 2019 has become a business hub of the city.
Prime Minster Hipkins was welcomed with the sound of whistles, claps and cheers by the vendors and the general public also there to witness the official visit.
NCD Governor Powes Parkop thanked the NZ Government adding that Gordons Market has become an avenue for financial empowerment for local women.
This has enabled the country to achieve gender equality in terms of financial freedom.
Parkop further highlighted that through this financial empowerment, women in the country will be in a position to share power, decisions, and platform with the men and that is the national goal.
“The NZ government by funding the establishment of this market has helped PNG to achieve this.”
“By investing in Gordons Market, NZ Government is supporting human empowerment and it strengthens also our cultural heritage.”
Parkop further said that Gordons market also serves as a social space where people can meet and interact, not just financially but also to build friendship.
“This market brings together individuals from different clans, tribes, and nationalities, over 1000 tribes and 800 languages interact daily here and this place is major hub of our city and an integral part of our community progress”.
Meanwhile, NZ PM Hipkins thanked the people of PNG and Gordons market for the warm welcome and for the partnership PNG has with the people of NZ.
Hipkins was presented a gift from NCD Governor has a token of appreciation for his visit to the market and as appreciation for his visit to the market.
The NZ Prime Minister was also gifted by Mama Bank, who added they were thankful for NZ’s support to fund this market which has helped more women achieve financial freedom in banking with Mama Bank.
Hipkins visit ended with a short visit into the market where he stopped by the fruits stall and had a short interaction with the mothers before he departed.