K24, 700 given to CBOs from NCDC, NDB pilot micro-finance scheme

COMMUNITY-based organisation (CBO) in Morata and Hanuabada received loans totalling K24,700 under a National Capital District Commission (NCDC) pilot micro-finance scheme yesterday in Port Moresby.
In presenting the cheques at Morata, NCD Governor Powes
Parkop thanked the National Development Bank (NDB) for partnering with NCDC to facilitate this scheme which, among with providing loans, would also train, mentor and provide business advisoral services to the recipients.
Mr Parkop warned the recipients not to see these loans as a free handout from NCDC.
“This is not free money, use it wisely and repay accordingly so that others will also borrow,” Mr Parkop said.
“This scheme will be looking at changing the mentality of the people from one of begging to more responsible citizens that take the initiative to chart a better future for their families and their communities.
“This is a significant undertaking and I want you as pioneers of this scheme to succeed so that others can follow,” he added.
Mr Parkop also encouraged the recipients to initiate small businesses and develop with the support they were now getting.
He challenged the two CBOs to work closely with NCDC and NDB through this scheme within their communities and work towards achieving the grand vision of the governor to make Port Moresby the best city in the Pacific.
Also speaking at the occasion was NDB special consultant, Anthony Cruz.
Mr Cruz congratulated the two CBOs who were the recipients of the loan and reaffirmed the commitment of NDB to work closely with NCDC on this scheme.
He also challenged the recipients to take the lead and be active participants in the shaping of their country at the community level with the support of this scheme.
Morata CBO received K20,000 while the Hanuabada CBO received K4,700 in the first stage of this pilot NCDC micro-finance scheme.