UN aids locals with K160,000 water project

National, Normal
Source:

The National, Friday 02nd December 2011

THE 4,000 people of the Kuruka area, in Lufa District, Eastern Highlands, are happy beneficiaries of a rural water supply and sanitation project funded by the European Union at a cost of more than K160,000.
The water project was officially opened last week by National Gaming Control Board acting chief executive officer Eddie Mike, who presented a cheque for K10,000 from the board towards the project maintenance account.
Present were Stewart Jordon, an engineer with the European Union, board and management of the Goroka Community Development Agency, Mt Michael local level government president, ward councillors, public servants, non-governmental organisation representatives, community leaders and people from the district and province.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill and Health Minister Jamie Maxtone-Graham were invited but could not attend because of the parliament session.
Mike passed on the prime minister’s apology and reminded the people that such project would not come to them as they had be partners in such projects “to make it happen”.
“You people are fortunate to have such a project and I want to congratulate you all for making it happen.
“You are rewarded for your hard work and contribution towards this partnership between Kuruka people, European Union and other stakeholders.
 “The secret to success is to work hard and I encourage you all to work hard to achieve tangible change in life,” he said.
The project is the first of its kind, with drinking taps, shower blocks, laundry slabs and pit toilets.
The villagers cleaned the community and fenced in their pigs and goats, with flowers planted along the road and in the villages.
“Kuruka is a model village setting and I appeal to every villager in Lufa to learn from Kuruka and apply the same model to your respective settings,” Mike said.
Mike gave K3,000 from the Office of the Prime Minister to support the project, and made a personal donation of K3,800.
Jordon congratulated the people of Kuruka for ensuring the project was delivered on time.
“I am proud to witness that Kuruka is delivered within the time and I congratulate all of you for such achievement,” he said.