New Zealand government has extended helping hands to support flood victims.
An initial contribution of SBD$550,000 was given last Friday through the government's aid agency, NZAID, to Solomon Islands Red Cross who is involved in the disaster response and helping affected communities with shelter, food and water."Having recently visited the Solomons, I am acutely aware of how devastating the floods will be for a people who already face daily hardships. On behalf of the government and all New Zealanders, I extend my condolences to the Solomon Islands government and its people," the New Zealand Foreign Minister, Murray McCully said.
The funding will also help the Guadalcanal provincial government establish its disaster centre, and charter ships to help with the relief effort where road access has been cut.
Mr McCully said SBD$250,000 is being provided to Guadalcanal Provincial Government to establish their operation centre.
It is being used to purchase basic office equipment, communications equipment, stationery and also to assist in the costs of chartering a ship for two return trips to the affected areas.
Approximately SBD$305,000 is being provided to Solomon Islands Red Cross to assist in their assessments and distribution of immediate relief supplies - family kits, hygiene kits, health kits and shelter.
Also supporting flood victims is the British High Commission who has offered donations of SBD10, 000 - Guadalcanal Provincial Office - 3 x teams of assessors and SBD132, 180.00 - Solomon Islands Red Cross - 150 x Family kits.
The Republic of China (Taiwan) released $20,0000.00 to Prime Minister Dr. Derek Sikua witnessed by the Premier of Guadalcanal Province Stephen Panga, NDC Chairman, Fred Fakari'i and members of the local media last Friday. This donation was in addition to ROC's quick donation of 500kg of rice worth SBD15000.00 one day after the floods. The SBD200000 will be given through the CBSI to the NDC.
The Japanese government last Friday pledged a donation of 10 million yen or SBD80000 to support with purification units, jerry cans and 20 water tanks of 3700 liters. The delivery of these items will be coordinated by the NDC to ensure those affected have access to clean and safe water. The Japanese Embassy and JICA will continue to monitor and work with Solomon Islands Government and responsible authorities to deliver the goods to those who need them most.
The Australian government has pledged SBD500000.00 for humanitarian relief support, with SBD250000 to go to the NDMO while the other half to support SIRC's activities in the response phase.