In an effort to bolster cancer treatment services at Morobe Provincial Hospital, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has announced that proceeds from its upcoming charity golf tournament will be allocated towards the acquisition of much-needed cancer drugs.
Marlcom Negints, the Community Affairs Manager of KPHL, revealed this significant initiative, highlighting the success of last year’s event which raised over K368, 000.
Negints expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received from participants and sponsors, noting that the funds raised last year enabled the procurement of essential drugs for the cancer treatment facility. Despite the substantial amount collected, there remains a surplus of K70, 000, emphasizing the ongoing need for financial assistance in securing costly cancer medications.
The charity golf tournament, scheduled to commence on March 1st, holds promise for further bolstering the fundraising balance.
Additionally, Negints emphasized Kumul Petroleum’s involvement in facilitating the importation of a cobalt-60 source, crucial for advancing cancer care infrastructure. Supported by a K15 million financial commitment from Kumul Petroleum under a memorandum of understanding signed in 2020, this initiative aims to enhance cancer treatment capabilities, including the recruitment of oncologists.
David Wissink, the Board Chairman of Morobe Provincial Health Authority (PHA), provided insight into the progress of cancer treatment initiatives, highlighting significant advancements made since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) several years ago. Wissink stressed the organization’s commitment to refurbishing and optimizing existing equipment to ensure essential radiation therapy is accessible to individuals in need.
While chemotherapy drugs pose a significant financial burden due to their high costs, Dr. Kipas Binga, CEO of Morobe PHA, expressed gratitude for Kumul Petroleum’s timely assistance in purchasing these medications. Acknowledging the invaluable support from Kumul Petroleum, Dr. Binga highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between public and private entities in addressing the challenges associated with cancer care.
The K15 million MoU between Morobe PHA and Kumul Petroleum, initially spanning three years, has been extended to further support cancer treatment initiatives. Dr. Binga affirmed Morobe PHA’s commitment to ensuring the timely restoration of radiation services by the end of March, utilizing the remaining funding effectively to enhance healthcare outcomes for the community.