The final stage of construction to turn Gerehu market into the capital’s flagship produce market is now underway, the National Capital District Commission, and UN Women announced yesterday.
“The Safe Cities Programme is building two new market buildings, with paving for Gerehu vendors, as well as a children’s playground with shade sail,” Mr. Honk Kiap, Deputy City Manager, said. The entrance to the market will also be paved.
“NCDC is committed to supporting safe public markets, conducive to buying and selling fresh produce. In particular, NCDC is creating opportunities to sustain and expand the market sector, and for former buai vendors, to continue vending different produce,” Mr. Kiap said.
The final stage of Gerehu market’s refurbishment is expected to take up to eight weeks, finishing at the end of April. The refurbishment was funded by the Government of Papua New Guinea, Ministry of Health, the Honourable Governor of Port Moresby, the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the Australian High Commission.
The initial refurbishment at Gerehu market in 2011 and 2012, was funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme.
“During the construction, vendors will be selling their produce in the street, next to the market, and vehicular traffic is expected to respect this, and lower their speeds during March and April,” Mr. Kiap said.
Safe Cities Progamme Team Leader, Ms. Alethia Jimenez, said: “Gerehu market will be an exemplary example of a fresh produce market, safe for vendors, customers and the community.”
“The refurbished market is designed to be safe for all who use it, especially women and girls. Eighty per cent of vendors at the market are women, and if they are safe to sell produce all day, their families, their communities and the economy will benefit,” Ms. Jimenez said.
UN Women’s Safe Cities Programme was launched in 2011 in Port Moresby, and works in Gerehu and Gordons markets. The Safe Cities Programme is funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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