This Easter Prime Minister (PM) James Marape embarked on a heartfelt trip to the devastated towns of Angoram and Wosera-Gawi to witness himself the destructions caused by the recent natural disasters, and also assured the people of government assistance.
The people living in these regions were put to the test by a seismic event as well as flooding, but when the PM showed up to reassure them of the National Government’s unshakable support, they felt a glimpse of hope.
Along with his wife, Mrs. Rachael Marape, who is also from the province of East Sepik, PM Marape conducted an aerial survey of the damage caused by the recent disasters.
The images below portrayed a bleak image of food gardens destroyed and houses completely submerged by nature’s merciless rage.
Sepik residents, living along the mighty Sepik River, found their lives overturned as heavy rains swelled the river, flooding homes and destroying crops.
The situation worsened on March 24th when a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the province, worsening the prior situation.
During his Easter Sunday visit to Pagwi, Marape expressed his sympathy and solidarity with the devastated residents.
He declared that K2 million would be released immediately from the National Treasury to support relief operations, while the East Sepik Provincial Government would be gathering information on the destruction.
Speaking directly to the people of East Sepik, Marape reassured them of the government’s commitment, stating, “Despite the politics that is going on in Waigani, we must put our differences aside and recognize the needs of our people in the affected areas.”
In order to successfully handle the situation, he stressed the importance of cooperation between the national government and local administrations.
Along with assurances of financial support, the Prime Minister’s visit carried a message of unity.
In order to quicken relief operations and start the process of restoration and development, he asked the provincial government and members of parliament from Sepik to collaborate closely with the national government.
The people of East Sepik Province took comfort in the idea that their hardship had not gone forgotten.
In the wake of his visit to East Sepik, Prime Minister Marape extended his journey of compassion to the landslide-ravaged regions of Gumine and Gembogl in Chimbu province.
The National Government’s pledge of assistance provided a glimmer of hope for individuals struggling to deal with the consequences of nature’s wrath there as well, among the ruins and wreckage.