An Australia-based campaigner for West Papuan rights, Paula Makabori, says she hopes the other members of the Melanesian Spearhead Group follow Vanuatu's example and help fund the Port Vila based West Papua Unification Committee's fundraising drive.
The drive has been launched this week by Pastor Allan Nafuki of the Vanuatu Presbyterian Church, geared around the upcoming Port Vila conference for West Papuan representatives groups looking to form a united bid for MSG membership.
West Papuan activist Paula Makabori looks at Fiji leader Frank Bainimarama. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
The Chairman says his committee has sent out invitations to well over 80 representatives of pro-independence movements in West Papua and outside West Papua, to attend the planned conference from September 30 to October 4.
Pastor Nafuki says responses indicate potential delays as many representatives have to pass through Indonesian Immigration to travel to Port Vila.
The Chairman says his Committee will make an announcement shortly if the date is going to change.
The Vanuatu Prime Minister Joe Natuman has pledged 50 thousand US dollars towards the campaign.