Members of the Saa, Mian and Koblaku (SMK) WhatsApp group have raised K70,000 to purchase food rations for El Niño-affected communities in Gumine District, Chimbu Province.
Professionals from the three tribes, living and working in Papua New Guinea and overseas, have contributed cash towards the initiative. Fundraising is continuing and is expected to close by the end of November.
Food rations are expected to be purchased by early December and distributed to families in the affected communities.
Spokesperson John Kama said the initiative was driven by a spirit of generosity and concern for fellow human beings as El Niño conditions continue to affect communities into 2027.
He said the people were hoping and praying for rain to restore the land and allow subsistence farming, which many families depend on for survival, to recover.
Mr Kama said the main objective was to support the survival of affected families. He also thanked contributors for their unconditional support despite high inflation and the rising cost of living.
The organisers also acknowledged intending candidates from SMK for their apolitical and charitable contributions towards the initiative.
The SMK group’s mission is to unite its people in promoting shared political, social, infrastructural and humanitarian development.
Food distribution for Mian and Koblaku communities is scheduled to take place from Monday, November 16, to Friday, November 20, while Sakaleku is expected to complete its fundraising and distribution by November 30.
Contributions for Mian and Koblaku will close on Sunday, November 15. Mian’s fundraising closed on Friday, November 6, after reaching its target.
