K12.5 million for El Nino relief in WHP

Western Highlands Province has received K12.5 million from the National Government for El Nino preparedness and response, but Provincial Administrator Joseph Iri Mangbil says the funding falls short of what the province needs to protect its people from the prolonged disaster.

Mr. Mangbil says the Western Highlands Provincial Administration initially submitted a funding request of K21.7 million to the responsible national government department following an assessment of the province's needs.

However, only K12.5 million was approved, leaving the province to manage the El Nino situation with significantly less than it had requested.

The funding has been allocated to the four districts, with each receiving K2.5 million to implement their respective preparedness and response plans.

Mangbil adds Western Highlands faces a major challenge because of its population of about 700,000 people, which continues to grow as people migrate into the province from other parts of the Highlands.

He also adds the growing population will place additional pressure on available resources as authorities work to respond to the effects of El Nino.

“With our population of about 700,000 people, including those coming into the province from other Highlands provinces, responding to this El Nino situation will be a major challenge.”

Despite the funding shortfall, Mangbil stress public servants must not become complacent but should step up their efforts to ensure assistance reaches the people who need it.

He has reminded officers at all levels of government to remain committed to their duties and carry out their responsibilities effectively during this period of national disaster.

The Western Highlands Provincial Government will also contribute K500,000 to support district-level preparedness and response activities, in addition to the national funding.

The contribution from the provincial government is expected to be shared among the four districts, although the exact allocation to each district has yet to be confirmed.

The Chair of the Provincial Disaster Committee has also urged public servants to exercise patience, fairness and impartiality when dealing with communities affected by the disaster.

He says the effects of El Nino can create anxiety among the people, making it important for government officers to respond wisely and professionally, even when they face difficult situations.

He emphasises on cooperation, responsible leadership and proper management of available funds will be critical to helping Western Highlands communities cope with the prolonged El Nino conditions.