TAKING SEWING TO THE LOCALS IN ENGA

 

Minister Reinbo Paita (left) at the opening of the factory.

MURA SPINS THE THREAD IN WAPENAMANDA, ENGA

NOT new in the tailoring industry, local business women Rachael Mura has now taken another step in taking the business to another level to include semi-skilled tailors.

With the establishment of a new garment and tailoring factory in Wapenamanda district of Enga Province, her main aim is to empower locals in the communities to be able to tap into the tailoring business.

“There’s a lot of raw talents in the sewing business that needs some guidance and basic training to enhance those skills and that is the main reason why we brought the tailoring factory here in Enga.

Mura is the major supplier for school uniforms in the upper highlands, however, business was a struggle for her when COVID-19 struck, just like any other local business

With COVID now under control business are slowing picking up and for her, it has given her a new dimension in doing business, thus taking the skills needed to the people in that way empowering every men and women who are interested or have some talent in sewing, the opportunity to pursue their dream.

She said its like starting all over again and this time with a much bigger purpose and that is to empower other local talents along the way.

Mura said for such local business to develop, it needs collective support, and the recognition given by the Enga Provincial Government under governor Sir Peter Ipatas speaks volume of its commitment in supporting local SME to see locals tap into new emerging businesses that can be done at their home to improve lives and sustain their livelihoods.

“It’s an initiative of the Enga Provincial Government in setting up in the province where locals can be trained. 

Four expatriates will be giving sewing training to the locals with a ratio of one trainer to five locals.

“The idea is to do away with expatriates and to give the skills to the locals so they can train others and pass on the sewing skills. 

"The aim is to have 30 sewers who will be experts in master cutter, fashion design and quality sewers by the end of six months.

National Planning Minister Reinbo Paita (above), when opening the Gaurmet and Tailoring center, acknowledged Mura and EPG for the initiative, adding that it is in line with the Governments plan of taking back PNG through local empowerment.

While admiring the setup, Paita encouraged locals to take the opportunity presented and to make something for themselves.

Mura said having the expatriates living and training the locals can also influence the locals to improve their lifestyle and way of living thus improving their standard.

Paita (centre) with two of the trainers.