Minister for Health and HIV/AIDS, The Honourable Sir Dr Puka Temu, has re-affirmed his support of YWAM Medical Ships’ work in the remote areas of the Southern region and Morobe Province by presenting a cheque for 1.5 million PGK on behalf of PNG’s National Department of Health.
The funds are the fulfilment of a pledge toward operational expenses for YWAM’s training and medical ship, the MV YWAM PNG.
Minister Temu said that the funding represents the National Government’s commitment to reach isolated communities with healthcare and training.
“I’m very proud of the partnership that we have established with YWAM Medical Ships. The partnership is helping to support, assist and promote what is contained in our National Health Plan, working in collaboration with our health system. Alongside our local health workers, over 165,000 people living in our remote areas have received primary health care, dentistry, health education, TB screening and even sight restoring eye surgeries – right on their doorstep. Local health workers also have the opportunity to receive mentoring and support, and our healthcare professionals and mariners are gaining hands-on experience and exposure to our country’s rural areas.”
“This program is multifaceted – it is helping to bridge a healthcare delivery gap, while building sustainability within our communities and health workforce. I am very pleased with what has been achieved, and the growth that we hope to see in the future,” said Minister Temu.
YWAM Medical Ships Managing Director, Mr Ken Mulligan, said the partnership between YWAM Medical Ships and PNG National Government has touched thousands of lives. “I can recount many stories of lives that have been affected through our important partnership – sight has been restored, pain has been relieved, and many have been empowered through training and support.”
“We are grateful to receive these funds today which will enable us to continue build on the great work that has been happening in some very remote areas of the country,” said Mr Mulligan.
The MV YWAM PNG is re-stocking in Port Moresby this week after a successful patrol to the Abau District, Central Province. The MV YWAM PNG will set sail for her next patrol to the Middle Fly District, Western Province this weekend.
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