A recovery plan is important when focusing on restoration for any community that is affected by any disaster, thus the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) understand this and has taken a bold approach to helping the communities of Mulitaka landslide area in Enga Province.
UNDP and the Enga Provincial Government have come together and officially launched the ‘Mulitaka Disaster Recovery Plan’, marking a crucial step towards recovery for communities affected by the devastating landslide that struck Maip Mulitaka Rural LLG on 24th May this year.
The comprehensive recovery plan, which UNDP provided critical technical assistance in developing, was unveiled at the Ipatas Center in Wabag town on 13th November.
UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth, in his address at the event expressed how pleased UNDP has been to provide vital support to the Enga Provincial Government to develop the recovery plan, which prioritizes restoring livelihoods, strengthening disaster preparedness, and ensuring long-term resilience against future disasters.
“Our ongoing partnership with the Enga Provincial Government reflects a shared commitment to support those most affected, to restore hope, and rebuild lives of the people of Mulitaka and Enga Province.”
“This plan focuses on the critical priorities for the recovery of those communities impacted by the landslide and will also take into consideration the broader long-term development goals for the province,” he said.
The plan outlines the provincial government’s vision for the recovery of those impacted by the landslide, as well as the framework for implementing it.
Mr. Booth stated that the Recovery plan has a strong focus on supporting and increasing the resilience of most vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disability.
Enga Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas KBE, GCL MP, at the launching of the Recovery Plan stated that the Recovery plan is a significant step forward for the people of Mulitaka and Enga Province.
“The devastation of the landslide has greatly impacted our communities, with lives tragically lost and families displaced, and I commend UNDP and other UN agencies and donors who stood with us, providing critical relief and support on the ground.”
“We are deeply grateful for their commitment and support.’’
The Recovery Plan document was officially signed by Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, Mr. Nicholas Booth and the Provincial Administrator of Enga, Mr. Sandis Tsaka.
Meantime, there to witness the signing were other key officials like Provincial Administrator and Controller of the Mulitaka Landslide Disaster, Mr. Kenneth Andrew; Mr. Robin Yakum from the National Disaster Center; and Mr. Jaman Yandam the Ward Councilor for Mulitaka Mangalo and the representative of the communities impacted by the landslide.