By Orchy Rex
THE Abau District Development Authority (DDA) has entered into a joint collaboration with Women’s Micro Bank Limited (WMB), branded as Mama Bank, aimed at empowering women and youth in the district.
The two entities signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), marking the beginning of a partnership to provide financial services and opportunities to the people of Abau, particularly mothers and youth.
Abau District Member and DDA Chairman, Hon Sir Puka Temu, expressed his gratitude to Mama Bank for the partnership, which coincides with the bank’s 10th anniversary. He noted that the timing was ideal for such a significant decision.
“As chairman of the DDA and member for Abau, I am fully satisfied that we have achieved a milestone in empowering our people to access credit,” Sir Temu stated.
“When we saw the opportunities that this bank offers, we had no choice but to join hands and collaborate.”
Sir Puka also acknowledged the challenges that rural communities face in accessing traditional banking services, emphasizing the need for simpler and more accessible solutions.
“People often find it difficult to navigate the complex terms and conditions of commercial banks, but with Mama Bank, it’s simple and easy,” he added.
As part of this initiative, the Abau DDA is allocating K1 million annually to support Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs), ensuring that the people of Abau have the financial resources needed to sustain their livelihoods. Sir Temu reaffirmed the district’s commitment to supporting Mama Bank’s vision and ensuring that services reach the rural population.
“We will make sure to honor our commitment and fully participate in every activity with Mama Bank because we believe in their vision,” Sir Temu said.
He also urged the government to prioritize rural democratization and service delivery to underserved regions.
“Eighty percent of our people live in rural areas without access to BSP, ANZ, Westpac, and are residing in valleys and mountain tops,” he stated.
Mama Bank CEO, Gunanidhi Das, thanked Sir Puka and the Abau DDA for the partnership and the opportunity to serve the marginalized people of Central Province. “Thank you for allowing us to serve you and the people of Abau, and for supporting rural mothers and families with our innovative products and services,” Das said.
Das also indicated that once a location is secured in Kupiano, a Mama Bank branch is likely to be established to serve the people of the district and the coastal regions of Milne Bay.
Abau District CEO, Trevor Tararau, described the deal as a pivotal moment for the people of Abau. “This is about ensuring a better future for our people,” Tararau said.
He praised Sir Puka Temu for his leadership in advancing SME development and improving the livelihoods of the district’s residents.
