Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua has announced in Parliament that Australia and New Zealand are providing nearly 18 million dollars towards last years' disaster victims in Western and Choiseul Provinces to rebuild or repair their homes.
Prime Minister Sikua's announcement yesterday coincides with the disaster's first anniversary and the start of a new phase in rehabilitation work in affected communities in both provinces.While commending Australia and New Zealand for the generous assistance, Dr Sikua said the new phase focuses on repairing and rebuilding houses to shelter many people who still live in make-shift or temporary shelters.
He said the funds will be disbursed through World Vision, known globally for its excellent work.
Prime Minister Sikua said the AusAID and NZAid funds are additional to the 15 million dollar contribution by the government, February this year for rehabilitation.
Dr Sikua also thanked donor partners such as Republic of China, Australia, United States of America, New Zealand, Japan, France, PNG and United Kingdom for contributing relief assistance to disaster stricken people in both provinces.