Kokopo Vunapope St. Mary’s Hospital recently received K150,000 to boost its operations.
During the presentation, Member for Kokopo and Minister for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Emil Tammur, said the DSIP funds were from the people of Kokopo to assist with hospital functions.
He was pleased to make the presentation on behalf of his constituency and the government to Deputy Director Medical Services Dr. Delly Babona, witnessed by Catholic Health Secretary Moses Bogandri.
“St. Mary’s has been a lifeline to our people and neighbouring provinces since 1930 and this is a gesture from our district, signifying the people, faith based service providers and government working together,” Tammur said.
He also visited and presented Christmas gifts to patients and made a small presentation to Superintendent Margaret Garap, Acting Commanding Officer Kerevat CIS, to assist the institution's festivities.
Tammur initiated the first-ever free to public Christmas in Kokopo Concert at the Kokopo Market, which commenced on the 20th and ended on the 24th of December.
The event featured local artists such as Kanai Pineri, Jaga, youth groups and church choir from Bitapaka LLG, Raluana LLG, Duke of York LLG and Kokopo from 6pm to 9pm.
The event is also the first of its kind in East New Britain and the New Guinea Islands Region.
“Kokopo is evolving. Let us stand together as one people and embrace peace, unity and the true meaning of Christmas.
“Together we can make a change,” Tammur said.
(Deputy Director Medical Services Dr. Delly Babona receiving K150,00, witnessed by Catholic Health Secretary Moses Bogandri and local MP Emil Tammur MP)