Rural community raising funds for projects

By SAMUEL BARIASI
Sinasina-Yongumugl’s remote Gunangi community in Chimbu is raising funds to buy a turbine for a mini hydropower facility, project chairman James Waula says.
“The community recently bought a K7,000 chainsaw to cut timber to build their homes, maintain their school and health centre,” he said.
“We have been selling kaukau, greens and coffee to raise funds for the projects.
“Buying a chainsaw through our own sweat feels special.
“We have also registered an association (Suai Perige Hydropower) with the Investment Promotion Authority for the projects.
“The turbine for the mini hydro project, including other materials, would cost about K100,000.
“We are still striving to reach our fund-raising target.
Waula said Chimbu Governor Michael Dua made a commitment to support the project.
“It is very challenging, but we believe that as long as we work hard, we will achieve our dreams,” he said. “Now that we have a chainsaw and digging the dam for the hydropower facility, the people in the community are happy to see their investments progressing positively.”