A TOTAL of 57 men and women travelled from Miline Bay Province to Port Moresby to attend the Catholic women basket exchange program hosted yesterday between women from the St. Anthony of Padua and the women from the Mary Queen of the Pacific Parish in Port Moresby.
Member for Samarai-Murua Hon Isi Henry Leonard made the trip possible for the 57 participants from the South Sariba Samarai by arranging a charted barge for the locals to Port Moresby.
During the ceremony yesterday, Hon. Leonard encouraged the women from both parishes to establish friendships and emphasized that the event should foster relationships among women of the Pacific.
“It is a simple event, but we must utilise to promote unity amongst all cultures, unity amongst all churches and unity in the country,” Mr. Leonard explained.
“Regardless of whatever is happening in and throughout the country, we must stand up and tell others that there is still hope because there is friendship.”
“I thank the ladies for bringing our very unique and talented products that they have actually woven.”
He further pointed out the uniqueness of hosting such an event that aligns with the Samarai name, which represent true friendship.
He said they have fulfilled this by coming together and interacting with women in Waigani Catholic Church.
Leonard spoke about the human element that requires more attention, noting that as their leader, he finds it fitting to support and help them achieve their plans and aspirations.
“We can talk about so many programs and projects, but without a human element, our touch as leaders is not with the people,” he stated.
He expressed that his focus and priority is to ensure that the needs of his people are taken care of, and he is committed to working with communities to fulfill projects related to health services, education, and more.
As part of their visit to the city before returning home to Milne Bay, the member will be taking them on a tour of the National Parliament, for which he has already sought approval.
