U.S. Provides $900,000 in Emergency Relief for Papua New Guinea Quake and Flood Victims
The United States has extended a helping hand to Papua New Guinea, offering $900,000 in emergency relief aid for communities ravaged by both a powerful earthquake and devastating floods.
Papua New Guinea's Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko MP, conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the U.S. for the assistance, facilitated through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The aid aims to alleviate the suffering of those affected in the East Sepik Province and the Highlands region.
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| U.S. Provides $900,000 in Emergency Relief for Papua New Guinea Quake and Flood Victims |
"I thank and express heartfelt appreciation to the Government and the people of the United States for this much-needed humanitarian assistance, in a time of great need for our people," Minister Tkatchenko stated, acknowledging the historical ties between the two nations and the recent intensification of governmental dialogue.
The emergency aid, promptly dispatched following a magnitude 6.9 earthquake on March 24, 2024, and ongoing flooding, targets immediate needs such as emergency shelter, logistical support, and water, sanitation, and hygiene provisions. The devastation wrought by these natural disasters has displaced approximately 10,000 individuals, destroyed over 1,000 homes, and affected nearly 400,000 people across the impacted regions.
Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock emphasized the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea's resilience against extreme weather and climate change. The assistance provided will not only address urgent humanitarian needs but also contribute to local economic recovery efforts.
Acknowledging the collaborative response, Minister Tkatchenko extended gratitude to Honorable Dr. Billy Joseph MP, Minister for Defence and National Emergencies, and various stakeholders involved in disaster relief efforts. He commended the concerted efforts to ensure a collective and cooperative response to the crisis.
The U.S. Embassy confirmed that USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance has dispatched disaster response experts to coordinate with local partners, donors, and the government. Efforts are underway to tailor the response to meet the specific needs of affected communities.
The funding, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has already facilitated the distribution of shelter and non-food item kits to vulnerable households. Further aid will be directed towards supporting 1,500 households, with supplies reaching affected communities with the assistance of PNGDF helicopter airlifts.
In addition to immediate relief efforts, USAID collaborates with Papua New Guinea on long-term initiatives such as promoting good governance, increasing resilience to climate change, and strengthening health systems, reflecting a sustained commitment to the nation's well-being.
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