Parkop, vendors to work on betel nut ban

 By PHOEBE GWANGILO

NATIONAL Capital District Governor Powes Parkop says he will work with vendors to ensure the betel nut ban remains.

He said the National Capital District Commission would spend K20 million to build new markets at 6-Mile, 9-Mile and Tokarara.

“I’m half way on maintaining the (betel nut) ban and I’m going to work with the vendors – that we keep betel nut sales free of the city and in Motu Koita villages.”

 He said he would seek permission from Moresby South MP Justin Tkatchenko to use the Saraga Market for betel nut sales. 

“So for betel nut sales, we can have markets at Taurama, Gerehu, 9-Mile and Saraga,” Parkop said.

“I think Saraga Market should be good for betel nut sales.

“Maybe the betel nut vendors and chewers will create a clean market.”

He told The National last year he had no intention of stopping vendors in informal and formal sectors but would work with them to be responsible and reliable citizens.