The people of 9 mile outside Port Moresby were in full traditional gear and excitement to celebrate the opening of the Saivara Market at 9mile.
NCD Governor, Powes Parkop and Moresby North-East member John Kaupa, today officially opened the market in front of a cheerful crowd, mostly mothers from 9 mile.
Mr. Kaupa said that this was a momentous occasion as the cries for the people have now been heard.
While on stage, Mr. Kaupa spoke of many issues, one was the rumours of the settlements eviction. The settlers of the Saivara and Bushwara settlements were assured by the seating MP that there will be no evictions to the settlements.
“There will be no forceful evictions to the settlements, Mr. Kaupa said.
He stated that there is a win-win situation or arrangement that the government has with the people and the landowners.
That was the consensus that has been reached. Governor Parkop said the cost of opening the construction of the market was K5million and equipped with 180 stalls for vendors, stating that even though it was the election period, government business must still go on.
He added that it was important the opening of the market opened, as people were still selling produce on the side of roads and it was not right.
“People are still marketing on the roads. This is why I want the people to come to a good environment with facilities to Market,” he said.
Governor Parkop reiterated that this is an initiative that will help people improve their lives and through it can contribute to the community as a whole.