NCD Governor Powes Parkop meet with the Gerehu community recently where he addressed pressing issues and how the Catholic Church can work with the people to addressing them.
On Saturday 28th December, Governor Parkop met with residents, Catholic Church sisters, youths and community leaders from Gerehu Stage 6 including representatives of other stages, to address those pressing concerns regarding infrastructure, law and order, unemployment, dilapidated school facilities, and a lack of essential government services.
The meeting highlighted the significant contributions of the Catholic Church in Gerehu, which has been providing vital support to the community in areas such as healthcare and education, filling a gap where government services have been lacking.
Community members expressed their gratitude for the Church’s assistance but emphasized the urgent need for increased government intervention.
Key concerns raised included:
● Deteriorating infrastructure, impacting daily life and safety.
● Insufficient law enforcement presence, leading to increased crime rates against the community and church workers.
● High unemployment rates among youth and adults.
● Poor condition of school facilities, hindering educational opportunities.
● Limited access to essential government services, including basic water supply and the need to light up dark corners of the city.
Governor Parkop acknowledged the community’s concerns and expressed appreciation for the Catholic Church and other religious organizations that have stepped in to provide crucial support where government presence has been insufficient.
Governor Parkop told the community he will be taking all their concerns to heart and address them accordingly in the New Year 2025, going forward.
The governor is committed to working with the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) to address some of the community’s most pressing issues in 2025.
Specific plans and timelines will be developed in consultation with the NCDC and his office working in partnership with the Gerehu community and the church for better development and positive changes.
He told them, as a former resident of Gerehu, who has lived there for many years, he understands their concerns well and will do his best address them.
This meeting underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government, community organizations, and religious institutions to address the challenges faced by underserved communities.
The Governor’s commitment to action signals a positive step towards improving the quality of life for residents of Gerehu.
He also committed K40, 000 towards organizing committee as a token of appreciation to the community to use that money to organize a small Christmas and New Year’s program to end the year.
Director of Directorate for Community and Social Development, Janet Haua and her managers were also present at the meeting and pledged their full support to work with the Governor.
“We’re ready to work with you and deliver services to our people in 2025,” said Ms Haua.