Highlands communities gain skills for safer disaster evacuations

A group photo of SHP participants after the end of training. (Image: Supplied)

Emergency workers in Jiwaka and Southern Highlands have been trained to help people safely leave during natural disasters.

The International Organization for Migration [IOM], in partnership with the National Disaster Centre and with support from the United States Government, delivered the specialized training on Massive Evacuation in Natural Disasters [MEND].

The training also included representatives of persons with disabilities [PLWDs] and community focal points from disaster-prone areas, ensuring inclusive and locally driven preparedness.

The workshops in Jiwaka [1–4 Sept] and Southern Highlands [8–11 Sept] brought together 50 participants-38 men and 12 women, from government, civil society, faith-based groups, police, health and education authorities, and local leaders.

Southern Highlands Provincial Disaster Coordinator John Kink, while opening the training, said, “Each province must have plans ready in case of disasters. I appreciate IOM and its partners for always assisting the government and communities during times of crisis. Where we cannot reach, IOM reaches out.”

Anne Rancha of Mendi Callan Services said, during disasters, persons living with disabilities are often left behind. “I am glad this training ensures that in MEND planning, their needs are prioritized. Their value and integrity are recognized, she said.”

Workshop participants during the training (Image: Supplied)

Local Level Government Officer Robert Diwi said the training will help district officers prepare and share knowledge across communities.

The workshops covered all stages of evacuation, planning for vulnerable groups, and included creating a model plan for use in other provinces.

Participants pledged to implement these plans, while schools, hospitals, and businesses were encouraged to run drills to save lives.

PNG faces frequent natural hazards, including earthquakes, floods, landslides, and droughts, with Highlands communities particularly at risk. The training is part of IOM’s wider efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness nationwide.