Marape offers help for flood-hit area

THE Government has committed K10 million for people in flood-affected areas of Western, Prime Minister James Marape said.
Marape visited communities along the Fly River on Friday after recent flooding displaced about 20,000 persons in the province.
“After visiting Obo, Suki and Hawaba along the Fly River, the Government will provide funding and food supplies, as communities are experiencing hunger,” he said.
“Relocation and long-term restoration of the people in these affected villages are also being looked at.
“I commend the leaders of Western for raising the concern for their people and putting the proposal through for us to ensure relief and permanent restoration for our people in the affected communities take place.” He said apart from the immediate relief and restoration assistance of K10 million from the Government, food would be delivered from Southern Highlands, West Sepik and Hela, as part of the relief efforts.
Western Governor Taboi Yoto estimated that 155 villages involving 20,000 persons were displaced by the flooding.
Yoto said the affected communities needed drinking water, food, temporary shelter and medical assistance immediately.
The Government’s commitment will be complemented with funding of K20 million from Ok Tedi Mining Ltd, and a collection of support from the Western provincial government and local district development authorities totaling about K6 million.