The Minister explained to the Government Information Agency (GINA) that though some of the water has receded from the land some of the houses are still submerged, and many of the residents have suffered major losses. These include clothing, food supplies, personal documents, livestock and most importantly their homes.
Additionally, most of the roads are also flooded hindering students from attending school. The residents have received clothing, food supplies and household detergents. Minister Garrido- Lowe said this will help the residents to survive until the water recedes completely.
According to Minister Garrido -Lowe, a total of 75 residents are affected and supplies will be provided to them for the next three months. “We visited the health post in Kanapang, at Chenapou, they have medical supplies except for diarrhoea, but we are making a list of supplies, and we will send in those supplies that the residents need,” the Minister explained.
The food supplies and clothing were donated by Hope for Nation Foundation while detergents and other cleaning supplies were provided by an entrepreneur.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummmings said her Ministry is assessing the situation to provide immediate medical attention to the residents.
She explained that there are regional nurses, doctors and community health workers and environmental health workers working along with
the residents in the region. However, a team comprising workers from the epidemiology and surveillance departments, environmental health and regional health officer, workers from the vector control and disease control departments and representatives from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO ) will be deployed.
“We’ll use their (PAHO representatives) assessment to assess the situation, the work will actually start when the water recedes. However, we’re preparing flood kits with anti-fungal creams and other medication to prevent outbreaks. We will also distribute brochures with information on safe drinking water,” Minister Cummings underlined.
Regional Chairman, Region Eight Bonventure Fredericks welcomed the government’s assistance to the region.
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) continues to work closely with the government to provide the necessary assistance for the residents.
A Forward Operation Base will be established at Orinduik to fly in supplies for the other affected communities of Kaibarupai, Waipa, and Sandhil
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