TEMOTU COMMUNITIES ONE YEAR ON AFTER 2013 TSUNAMI
Edith Dagi from Area 4 shows a rebuilt food garden. Photo credit: UNDP.
Many Temotu communities affected by the February 2013 tsunami are on their way to normalcy – thanks to the resilience of communities and assistance from various organizations.
The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) states restored food gardens, temporary shelters, and some new livelihood opportunities are among signs of recovery, one and a half years after the disaster.
Temotu Premier Fr Charles Brown Beu told UNDP, people took the initiative to reconstruct their homes and rebuild their livelihoods even before they receive outside assistance.
Fr. Beu expressed his gratitude to Red Cross, World Vision, UNDP, Oxfam, Live and Learn and all other organisations and individuals who have assisted.
Meanwhile, the government has developed a permanent housing program for affected communities in the province.
The Ministry of Finance has allocated funds last month, after reviewing the budget submission.
The plan is yet to be approved by Cabinet.