Opening of the First ever Women’s Micro-Bank in PNG and the Pacific

The first Women’s Micro Bank Limited in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific was opened in August 2014 at the Able Computer building in Port Moresby. The launching of the Micro Bank was a significant milestone achieved through sheer hard work and determination under the leadership of CEO Thushari Hewapathirana, Mrs Janet Sape and the directors.

Distinguished guests including the National Capital District Governor Honourable Mr. Powes Parkop who was very proud of the women in his city for this huge achievement. Minister for Trade, Commerce & Industry Minister Honourable Mr. Richard Maru wanted the women to note that the previous and current governments believed in the women that it gave a total of 14 million kina to get this bank up and running and therefore the women must make it work. Minister for Community Development Honourable Mrs. Delilah Gore also challenged the women to take ownership of the bank and grow it.

BPNG Assistant Governor of the Financial System Stability Group Mr. Ellison Pidik made a few remarks on behalf of the BPNG Governor Bakani and in congratulating the women for this great accomplishment emphasized the importance of taking bold steps in the right direction and with the first ever Micro Women’s Bank in PNG and the Pacific said ‘you Women are now better empowered to be equal partners in growing our economy. In line with the government’s initiatives in the development of the financial sector to promoting inclusive growth, the Bank of PNG is committed to eradicate Financial Illiteracy especially among the disadvantaged women & children and this bank is one such bold step towards this achievement.’

The Women’s Micro Bank will encourage women to save, get business loans to start their own businesses and to be self-reliant and not to succumb to the handout mentality said Mr. Ellison Pidik.