NMSA pleased with positive outcome - Papua New Guinea National Maritime Safety Authority
Through sheer determination and commitment, the community of Yabam/Pahilele Islands located off East Cape, Maramatana LLG, Milne Bay Province brought to reality, a dream that was conceived 55 years ago, the opening of their Church building at Yabam Island on Saturday 27 May 2017.
The National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) is pleased with this positive initiative that was driven by the community with assistance through partnership by the Maramatana LLG, the Milne Bay Provincial Government’s Church Partnership Program and the NMSA’s Community Engagement Program (CEP) including, the communities fundraising activities.
The islands of Yabam and Pahilele are located South-East off East Cape with these communities engaged to assist the NMSA in monitoring the operation of two of its lighthouses in the area, these being Raven Channel South and Danagedu lights.
In August 2014, NMSA commenced discussions with the respective Community Lighthouse Committees (CLC) and a consensus was made by the community and Committees of Yabam and Pahilele to commit annual funds by the NMSA towards the building of the church.
Speaking on behalf of NMSA and the Management, Community Development Manager, Ms. Dinah Inape-Omenefa congratulated the community of Yabam and Pahilele and acknowledged the commitment of the Community, the Lighthouse Committees and the partnership between the Maramatana LLG, the Church Partnership program and the NMSA in pooling resources and efforts to making this Church a reality. A positive and tangible outcome whereby all in the community could benefit from.
Ms Inape-Omenefa said such a commitment and support shown by the community is overwhelming given their determination and witnessing this occasion provided a good report to all who contributed to achieving this.
“The commitment shown by the Committee for Yabam Pehilele Community shows what kind of positive initiatives which can be achieved through community collaboration through tangible projects such as these,” she said.