Disaster in Jiwaka

In the past when Papua New Guinea had no mining industries, Jiwaka was the biggest exporter of coffee and tea which contributed to the nation’s development.
Jiwaka owned big coffee factories like Waghi Mek, which produced tonnes of green bean coffee for the world market. At that time, PNG had a strong economy. PNG now has many mining, logging and other industries which generate income apart from agriculture, however, we still have an economic downturn.
Jiwaka was once the wheelbarrow of PNG, but now the cries of the people fall on dried grass.
We have had and seen many disasters happening around the country recently caused by weather patterns. Jiwaka is no exception, with floods recently destroying food gardens and causing death.
Wara Mombel’s recent flooding caused much destruction to homes, food gardens, coffee gardens, livestock and churches. My heartfelt appreciation to the Jiwaka provincial disaster committee chaired by John Kupul as they try their best to cope with the needs of the people affected by flooding. We, the people of Jiwaka, are calling on the National Disaster Office to assist us in this time of need. We know that the National Disaster Office and the National Government are busy with the earthquake disaster, but at least think of us as we are taxpayers.
I would like to thank former North Waghi MP Benjamin Mul for the distribution of 200 rice bags to the affected areas.
This means a lot to the people of Jiwaka and North Waghi.
Our heartfelt appreciation to other organisations and churches who have come forward and supported in cash and kind.

Mervin Kolum Mukul , UPNG