Department commits year to God

THE Department of National Planning and Monitoring has committed the year to God through its annual dedication service last week.
It was attended by National Planning Minister Rainbo Paita, vice-minister Kobby Bomareo, agency heads Noel Mobiha, PNGNID acting registrar general and National Statistics Office acting statistician John Igitoi, department secretary Koney Samuel, project management units and staff.
Pastor Fred Malawae from the Seventh-day Adventist Church led the service with Bible reading from Matthew 5:3: “blessed are those who are poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
“When you and I realise our great need for God in our lives, it makes us humble, patient and powerful because the power of God is with us,” Ps Fred said.
The National Planning and Monitoring Department has been holding weekly devotions when Samuel was appointed acting secretary in mid-2018.
“The call and expectation is big for the department to deliver to the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea,” he said.
“Let’s commit our lives to God to take this country forward.”
Paita was welcomed as the newly-appointed minister during the gathering.
He acknowledged the importance of the department as a central coordinating agency in the Government and responsibilities that came with it.
“This is a an important office and the responsibilities that come with it is sometimes difficult for us,” he said.
“Especially sitting on agendas such as Capital Investment Budgets and Public Investment Programme.
“Speaking as a politician, the pressure is high.
“Members of Parliament want more.
“The resource envelope is small and the ceiling is set.
“How do we manage working as a team and managing the politics of the day while at the same time working with the Government in providing leadership on our sector programmes?”
He said he will work together with the vice-minister to manage the politics.
“I want the department to concentrate on ensuring that we deliver on our core programmes,” Paita said.