The Rabaul District Development Authority (DDA) Board has approved K200,000 in disaster relief funds to support its four Local Level Governments (LLGs) following the devastation caused by Cyclone Maila.

The decision was finalized during the second-quarter DDA Board meeting held this month at the District Headquarters in Kurakakaul.

During a District Disaster Committee meeting held recently, Rabaul District Administrator Freddy Lemeki announced that the funds will be distributed with K60,000 each for Kombiu and Balanataman LLGs, and K40,000 each for Rabaul Urban and Watom Island LLGs.

Mr. Lemeki stated that the relief funds will assist in improving accessibility to government services, especially regarding roads, and the distribution of food relief supplies and other immediate necessities.

He noted that eleven contractors have been engaged to perform clearance and improve accessibility on roads and severely affected sections in both origin and resettlement areas.

Regarding the challenges in the Sikut area, Lemeki stated, “For Sikut, we are just waiting for the river to subside sometimes soon so we can cross the river as we cannot go by bridge due to heavy machineries.”

He emphasized that the immediate concerns remain the welfare of affected families, road safety, and ensuring access to health facilities and vital government services.

The district has already received food donations including rice, tinned fish, biscuits, and water containers from the Provincial Disaster Office, which have been distributed to families across the four LLGs followed by a second load of supplies.

Mr. Lemeki commended the support from the Provincial Government, Provincial Administration, and the Provincial Disaster Office, noting that the district will continue to bolster these efforts through the newly approved funds.

Furthermore, Deputy District Administrator for Operations Petrus Maninga, confirmed that the District Health Team and Environmental Health Officers are conducting community awareness programs regarding disaster-related diseases and safety issues.