The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs has presented a $4.2M double-cab Hilux pick-up acquired through a Presidential Grant to Wallaba, Region One.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai presented the vehicle to Senior Councillor Dennis John at a brief ceremony held at her office.
A Government Information Agency (GINA) press release said the vehicle was bought through the village’s presidential grants for 2010 and 2011, which amounted to $1.4M, along with a $2.8M contribution from the government.
Wallaba is a small agricultural satellite community located in Santa Rosa village and the jeep will be used to transport produce to the market.
Sukhai said that a management committee will be set up to deal with the maintenance for the jeep and provide a driver and fuel. She pledged the ministry’s continued support to providing transportation to facilitate trade and the provision of services.
John said that the vehicle will significantly reduce transportation costs, especially for parents whose children attend schools that are great distances away from the community.
