IOM helps landslide victims

INTERNATIONAL Organisation for Migration (IOM) has responded to the needs of those affected by the 2021 Topa landslide incident in Southern Highlands through a data collection method.
IOM deployed a displacement tracking matrix (DTM) in partnership with the Southern Highlands office for disaster management and climate change after the landslide left members of the Topa community displaced and five people dead last Dec 27.
IOM chief of mission in PNG, Serhan Aktoprak said: “The deployment of the DTM enabled the collection of critical information on the population displacements, facilitating decision-making to help respond timely and effectively to the needs, and aid the recovery of the affected areas.”
He said after being informed by findings from the DTM assessment, and in partnership with the Southern Highlands administration, they responded to the needs of those affected by the landslide.
The IOM team delivered shelter and other items such as tools, tarpaulins, collapsible water containers, and cooking utensils.
They also supplied water tanks and accessories to help restore access to drinking water for Topa villagers.
In addition, Topa village leader Joshua Akop said: “This assistance is timely as the landslide brought several hardships to the people.”
Southern Highlands disaster coordinator John Kink acknowledged IOM’s support and said: “You have given hope to the people in Topa, especially those that lost their homes.”
The IOM’s interventions were funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) bureau for humanitarian assistance.