-        Abigail Seta and Nigel Akuani

 

Port Moresby: Prime Minister James Marape committed K250,000 to Radio Maria as he launched its Mariathon Fundraising Drive to sustain its work of evangelizing through sharing the ‘Good News.’ 

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The fundraising was launched on Wednesday, 13th May at the Radio Maria headquarters in Gordons and concluded on 18th May. 

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The prime minister who was the keynote speaker at the launch also toured the facilities of Radio Maria and stated that Radio Maria as a media organisation plays an important role in society by monitoring the government’s actions and more importantly providing the inspiration of God to the people. 

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“Mediums like Radio Maria continue to disseminate correct information to society as well as keep the government and public servants balanced and in check with what we do. I am here to ensure that proper societal knowledge and acknowledgement of this sort of small but key facilities in our country are given the correct support they deserve,” said Mr Marape.

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The launch of the fundraising was graced by the presence of His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat MSC; Acting Health Secretary, Dr Paison Dakulala; General Secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference, Fr Giorgio Licini PIME; Ambassador Gabriel Dusava; Mr Fabian Chow, Chairman of the Fresh Produce Development Authority and Managing Director Coastal Shipping.

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“Radio Maria is a worldwide network for the Church, and we have Radio Maria PNG. I am grateful that everyone has come to be a part of this. It is now up to us to fundraise and support its work,” stated the Cardinal as he addressed the gathering.

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Following the official launch, a pledge of K17,000 was made by the Acting Health Secretary, Dr Paison Dakulala who, in his speech, gave a brief awareness on precautionary measures against COVID-19. Mr Fabian Chow also pledged K10,000 on behalf of his family.

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With its theme “Bringing Mary's smile to everyone,” the station is working to extend its network across the country and provide leadership for Radio Maria in the region.