More than 2000 lives are feared to have been buried under tonnes of debris and boulders in the recent landslide in Mulitaka LLG in Enga Province.
Following this tragic disaster, the United States of America through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), will provide the equivalent of approximately K2million (US D$500,000) for emergency humanitarian assistance.
The USAID’s relief efforts will include logistics support, protection, clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) assistance.
This USAID will leverage existing partnerships with the PNG’s National Disaster Centre and the Provincial Disaster Centre to ensure that relief meets the needs of the affected communities.
In a recent statement from the United States President Joe Biden, he pledged United States support to the people and the government of Papua New Guinea and also shares his personal condolences to those whose families have been buried under the land slide.
“Jill and I are heartbroken by the loss of life and devastation caused by the landslide in Papua New Guinea,” said President Biden.
Also highlighting US commitment to providing support and relief assistant, Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock emphasized the U.S commitment stating that the United States is working with their partners here in PNG as they lead rescue and recovery efforts.
“This assistance will help meet the immediate needs of the people of Enga Province as they begin rebuilding their lives.”
Currently the USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance disaster response experts are working with the government, humanitarian partners, and donors to ensure that relief efforts are coordinated and tailored to the needs of the communities affected by the landslide.