The New Ireland Provincial Government has committed K1.5 million to support women entrepreneurs and expand financial inclusion across the province through a new partnership with Women's Micro Bank Limited under the Empowering Mama Bilas Peles Program.
The funding commitment was announced by New Ireland Governor Byron Chan during the program's official launch at Sir Julius Chan Stadium in Kavieng on May 25, 2026. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was also signed between the New Ireland Provincial Government, the New Ireland Development Corporation (NIDC) and Women's Micro Bank Limited.
The initiative aims to strengthen women's participation in the provincial economy by improving access to banking services, business financing, entrepreneurship opportunities and financial literacy programs, particularly in rural communities.
Chan described the program as a strategic investment in inclusive economic growth, emphasizing the vital role women play in the economic and social development of New Ireland.
"Women are the backbone of our families, our communities, and our economy. When we invest in our mothers and empower them economically, we are investing in the future of New Ireland," he said.
The governor said the K1.5 million allocation would serve as a guarantee facility through Women's Micro Bank, helping women entrepreneurs, small business operators and grassroots economic initiatives gain greater access to financial support.
According to Chan, the program aligns with the provincial government's broader development agenda of creating economic opportunities at the community level while ensuring rural populations are not excluded from financial services and business development programs.
"For too long many women in our rural communities have lacked proper access to banking and financial services. Through this partnership, we are opening doors for our mothers and women to save money, start businesses, and improve the quality of life for their families," he said.
Beyond expanding access to finance, the initiative seeks to encourage entrepreneurship and leadership among women while leveraging New Ireland's cultural heritage as a source of economic opportunity.
Chan said the "Bilas Peles" concept creates pathways for women to generate income through traditional crafts, cultural products and tourism-related activities, allowing communities to benefit economically from their cultural assets.
"Our culture is our identity, and our people should benefit from it economically. This initiative allows our women to proudly showcase New Ireland culture while building livelihoods and contributing meaningfully to the provincial economy," he said.
Women's Micro Bank Chief Executive Officer Gunanidhi Das welcomed the partnership, describing it as an important step toward expanding financial services to underserved communities and supporting the growth of women-owned enterprises.
Das said the collaboration would help improve household livelihoods by promoting savings, entrepreneurship and access to affordable banking services.
He added that greater financial inclusion remains a key driver of small business growth and economic participation, particularly for women operating in the informal sector.
The agreement establishes a long-term framework for cooperation between the provincial government, NIDC and Women's Micro Bank to deliver financial empowerment initiatives and community-based development programs throughout New Ireland.
The Empowering Mama Bilas Peles Program is expected to support the growth of women-led enterprises, improve financial literacy and create sustainable income-generating opportunities, reinforcing the province's efforts to build a more inclusive and diversified local economy.
The launch was attended by provincial leaders, women entrepreneurs, business representatives and community stakeholders, including Women's Micro Bank Operational Manager Rex Noga. The event concluded with the signing of the MOA, cultural performances and presentations by local women's groups showcasing New Ireland's cultural heritage.
