Flood-hit communities in need of food and water

THE body of a pregnant woman who was swept away by floodwaters at Angewanga, in Menyamya, Morobe, has been found.
Strong winds and heavy rain damaged homes and food gardens in the Angaiwakanga, Yakobai and Paiwini wards, in the Kapaolocal level government, last week.
Provincial health minister Jackty Yotipo confirmed the villagers found the body days after the woman disappeared in floodwaters. Yotipo said the rain caused the river to flood and burst its bank. Landslides destroyed food gardens and coffee gardens, houses and trade stores.
“Other affected areas and casualties in interior mountainous locations are yet to be confirmed as the LLG workers and ward councilors are still there conducting assessment,” Yotipo  said.
“The final report will be submitted to provincial disaster and health division including an appeal to charity organisations for assistance.”
Yotipo said in a report that affected communities were without food, shelter and safe drinking water sources.
“Many people lost their trade stores, houses, coffee pulping machines, coffee and food gardens,” Yotipo said.
Disaster co-ordinator Charlie Masange assured district administrators, LLG managers and patrol officers to swiftly intervene and submit reports for immediate assistance.
Masange said that appropriate procedures and protocols in disaster assessment and submitting reports were bypassed over the years.
Masange remarked after leaders from affected communities run to media to raise concern over disaster related matters.
Yotipo assured to submit the final report to Masange when prepared to seek assistance.