NDC supports North Fly drought response

500 tons of immediate relief supplies, mainly food and other dry goods and water, for communities affected by the El Nino-induced drought in North Fly (Supplied)

Member for North Fly James Donald has thanked the National Disaster Centre for its timely support in coordinating logistics and hiring a landing craft to freight 120 tons of food relief supplies to affected communities in North Fly District of Western Province.

Donald utilized District Services Improvement Program funds and internal revenue to purchase 500 tons of immediate relief supplies, mainly food and other dry goods and water, for communities affected by the El Nino-induced drought.

The National Government responded promptly through the NDC, which arranged transport to move the first 120 tons to Aiambak for distribution.

Further support is also being provided by partners, with the Australian Government to airlift 10 tons of supplies to Tabubil, while Ok Tedi Mining Limited will airlift a further 50 tons to Tabubil.

In a statement, Donald said getting relief into remote parts of North Fly is a major challenge especially during this drought when the Fly River water level has decreased, and the NDC's help with logistics has made a real difference for their people.

Acting Director General of the NDC, Laso Mana said the NDC is committed to supporting provincial and district leaders to get help to drought-affected communities as quickly as possible, and this operation shows what can be achieved when National Government, district leadership, development partners and the private sector work together.

The NDC continues to monitor drought conditions in North Fly and across the country and is coordinating with provincial and district authorities on further assistance.