Prime Minister James Marape announced this week in Parliament a review of the national budget to manage the rising costs of natural disasters, which have reached K500 million. This decision follows the recent devastating landslide in Mulitaka, Enga Province, which has claimed over 2000 lives. Speaking in Parliament, Prime Minister Marape emphasized the urgent need for a budget adjustment to cover the financial burden of multiple disasters this year. "Before the Enga landslide, disaster costs were already at K500 million." These expenses include relief efforts and the reconstruction of essential infrastructure affected by events such as the Simbu landslide, flooding in East Sepik, Gulf, West New Britain, and Bougainville, and drought in Milne Bay. The government has already dispatched K250,000 for immediate relief through the Department of Defence. However, Marape noted that more funds are being mobilized for comprehensive restoration. "Relief funds have been released, and greater restoration funding is being organized." The Minister of Defence and the Governor of Enga are currently assessing the full extent of the damage and the costs required for restoration and reconstruction. Prime Minister Marape highlighted the need for a robust response to the extraordinary weather patterns affecting the country. "We are experiencing severe weather changes, from droughts to heavy rains, flooding, sea level rise, and landslides." He said the situation demands a more adaptable and comprehensive disaster management strategy. Critics have pointed out that the government's response has been slow and underfunded, adding to the hardships faced by affected communities. The initial delay and limited immediate funding have raised concerns by various MPs on both sides as to the government's ability to handle widespread disasters effectively. The nation now awaits the detailed report from the Enga Provincial Government to see how the promised budget adjustments will be implemented. Prime Minister Marape's pledge for a "holistic review" of the national budget is a crucial step in addressing these disasters' financial and humanitarian impacts. The effectiveness of this response will be measured by the speed and adequacy of the forthcoming relief and reconstruction efforts. The public will closely monitor how well the government mobilizes and allocates resources to meet the growing climate challenges.