Community support in the nation’s capital has intensified following the launch of a coordinated relief campaign for victims of Cyclone Maila, with organisers reporting overwhelming participation in the first major donation drive.
The initiative, led by the Milne Bay Community Association Inc. (MBCA) in partnership with the Louisiade Peoples Foundation Inc. (LPF), combines donation drives and fundraising events aimed at delivering urgent aid to communities across Milne Bay Province.
President of MBCA, Jimmy Segodi, expressed gratitude for the strong public response, describing it as a powerful show of unity.
“It was a truly moving day. Seeing citizens from all walks of life come together to support our people was deeply inspiring,” Segodi said.
The first “Kapole Jam Session” donation drive, held on April 18th at the Vision City Amphitheater, resulted in eight truckloads of essential supplies, including food, water, medical kits, and bedding. The donations, totaling more than three tones, were transported to a warehouse at Motukea Wharf for sorting and storage.
Logistical operations were supported by Post Logistics, with assistance from its chief operating officer Ben Davis.
Volunteers are currently processing the donated items in preparation for shipment to affected areas.
While the campaign initially focused on in-kind donations, organisers also received more than K3, 000 in cash contributions, which will be allocated transparently toward relief efforts.
Segodi acknowledged a wide range of contributors, including 2 Fast Motors PNG, whose CEO Billy Lin personally delivered 200 cartons of water and 100 cartons of biscuits. The Vision City Mega Mall provided its venue free of charge and contributed food items, while Post PNG and Post Logistics facilitated storage and transportation.
Additional support came from Misima Minerals Limited, which has been approached to assist with sea freight to outer islands, and local music groups including wONEm Direction and Extracts of Alotau, who provided free entertainment during the drive.
Youth volunteers from the Milne Bay community in Port Moresby also played a key role in organising and packing donations.
Segodi also acknowledged the recent visit by Prime Minister James Marape to affected island communities, saying it brought hope to residents impacted by the disaster.
Initially focused on the Samarai-Murua islands, relief efforts have since expanded following reports that cyclone damage extends across much of Milne Bay, including mainland coastal areas.
The first shipment of aid is expected to be sent to Misima Island as a central distribution hub, with further deliveries coordinated through provincial disaster authorities and local government teams.
The campaign is set to continue with a series of upcoming events aimed at sustaining momentum.
A second donation drive will be held on April 25th at the National Museum and Art Gallery, followed by a third on May 2nd at Vision City.
Fundraising efforts will also run alongside the donation drives. A “Ae Kapore Funk-Rock Night” will take place at The Cosmopolitan, featuring local performers, while a community fundraising dance organised by the Milne Bay Provincial Women’s Office is scheduled at the Crystal Lounge.
Another major fundraiser is planned for May 9th, with further details yet to be announced.
“This is a community-led recovery. While we continue to provide immediate relief, we urge the government to prioritise long-term disaster mitigation and resilient infrastructure to protect our islands from future natural disasters,” he said.
