Boy, 2, killed after tree fell on house

By ZACHERY PER
A TWO-year old boy was killed, his mother seriously injured and his one-month-old baby sister sustained minor injuries when a tree fell on their home last Thursday.
The incident happened at Akameku village in Goroka, Eastern Highlands, after strong winds and heavy rain hit the village.
Village elder Max Ovone said young Kolen Raymond died, and mother Elvis Kivi was injured with baby Elsie Raymond.
Ovone said the three were in their home when a gust of wind uprooted the gum tree which fell on them.
Ovone’s story was verified by fellow villagers Wesley Isembo, Anton Jacob and Pato Matane.
Mum Kivi is recovering at the Goroka Provincial Hospital. Baby girl Elsie is being breast-fed by another woman in the village.
“The family lost all their properties. They are calling for donations both in cash and kind,” he said.
Goroka MP Henry Ame has warned the people of Goroka district to take heed of natural disasters such as strong winds, floods and landslides, which could strike at any time.
“People should build their homes in clear spaces where there are not many trees, avoid building houses on slopes or near river banks. Natural disaster will occur at any time,” he said.
Ame assured the villagers that he would provide relief assistance this week.
Chairman of Matehau Community Development Corporative Albert Jeffery said the flood was the biggest ever seen at the Mapemo River.