Governor of National Capital District (NCD) Powes Parkop has announced a major fundraising initiative to support Port Moresby’s sister city, Port Vila following the devastating earthquake that struck Vanuatu’s Capital on Tuesday 17th December.
According to Governor Parkop, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Port Vila, resulting in 14 deaths and numerous injuries. The quake triggered landslides, crushing cars and damaging multiple buildings.
“Our sister city, Port Vila, has suffered a terrible tragedy. We stand in solidarity with the people of Vanuatu during this difficult time, and we are committed to doing everything we can to help them rebuild,” Parkop said.
The fundraising drive, a charity music festival is planned towards the end of January in the New Year and is expected to be held at the Sir John Guise Stadium.
Various local artists have put their hands up to participate in the event including Betty and John Toea, Makali Tau and Fijian female singer, Elina Onno with the aim to raise significant funds for earthquake relief and recovery efforts in Port Vila.
Other Pacific Islanders living in the city have also pledged to support Governor Parkop’s charity initiative.
“The music festival will be a vibrant celebration of community spirit, and we hope it will bring people together to support a worthy cause and show the people of Port Vila that they are not alone.
“This is a tragedy that has occurred in the Christmas period hence, the right thing to do as Christians is to show our empathy and solidarity to help our Melanesian brothers and sisters by contributing whatever resources we have towards their recovery,” said Governor Parkop.
He added that his office and the National Capital District Commission have pledged K100,000 to kick start the fundraising drive and appealed to everyone to contribute generously to this crucial initiative.
All donations can be paid to: Earthquake Relief Initiative by Hon. Powes Parkop, NCD Governor.
BSP Bank, account number: NCDC 1000962618; or contact Melissa Brabar on mobile #: 742 41055; or email: melissabrabar88@gmail.com.
“Every kina donated will make a difference in the lives of those affected by the earthquake. Let’s show our sister city the strength of our compassion and support their journey to recovery,” Governor Parkop added.
Meanwhile, he mentioned that the national government has made a commitment of K20 million towards the same cause and thanked Prime Minister James Marape for his government’s support.