The Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society (PNGRCS) has officially welcomed and inducted three distinguished professionals as members of its Finance and Audit Committee, reinforcing the Society’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound governance.
The induction, held in Port Moresby, was attended by National Council Chairman Oscar Pidian, Secretary General Gellie Akui, the National Treasurer Merelyn Penning, who also serves as Chairperson of the Committee, IFRC Head of Delegation Maki Igarashi, Australian Red Cross Finance Development Advisor Patrea Ryan, and Claire Hallas, Portfolio Manager for Pacific Programs at Australian Red Cross.
The induction highlighted the history of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, outlined the role of PNG Red Cross as an auxiliary to the government, and provided a detailed briefing on the roles and responsibilities of the Finance and Audit Committee.
The new members inducted into the Committee are Martin Kokon, a Certified Practicing Accountant and Registered Company Auditor with more than thirteen years of experience in the audit and assurance sector; Bridget Laimo, a Certified Practising Accountant with over twenty years of financial management and governance expertise in both PNG and Australia; and Navin Singh, Executive Chef at Hilton Port Moresby, who brings more than two decades of international leadership experience in budget oversight, procurement, and governance within the hospitality industry.
Chairman of the National Council, Oscar Pidian, welcomed the new members, stating that the Finance and Audit Committee plays a vital role in ensuring that our resources are managed with integrity and efficiency.
“The caliber and diverse expertise of our new members will greatly strengthen the governance of the Society.”
Meanwhile, Secretary General, Gellie Akui, added that as an auxiliary to government and a trusted humanitarian partner, PNG Red Cross must uphold the highest standards of financial stewardship.
“We are grateful to welcome these experienced professionals who have volunteered their time and skills to help us maintain accountability to our communities, donors, and partners.”
The Finance and Audit Committee will advise the National Council on financial matters, oversee internal audit processes, monitor resource use, and ensure compliance with financial policies.
Their contributions will be crucial to support the Society’s efforts to achieve financial sustainability and resource mobilization, strengthening its capacity to respond to disasters, health crises, and the impacts of climate change in Papua New Guinea.