Port Moresby – On 7 June, the Government of Japan pledged USD 2 million as an Emergency Grant Aid for Papua New Guinea in response to the devastating landslide that struck the country's Enga Province. This generous contribution includes USD 1 million allocated to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to facilitate critical interventions in shelter, food security and health. 

The Japanese Ambassador in Papua New Guinea, Mr Nobuyuki Watanabe, emphasized the Japanese Government's enduring commitment to assist Papua New Guinea in these challenging times.  

“In addition to the emergency relief assistance conducted soon after the landslide through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the Government of Japan has decided to further extend an Emergency Grant Aid totalling USD 2 million to address the much-anticipated needs in the affected area. Of this amount, USD 1 million will contribute to IOM's implementation of humanitarian assistance activities in shelter, food and health. The Government of Japan stands with the Government and people of Papua New Guinea and will continue to work closely with them for the recovery and reconstruction of the affected areas,” he stated. 

The IOM-led project aims to alleviate the impact of the Mulitaka landslide by delivering critical aid, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable groups, including children, women, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. This comprehensive initiative involves several key interventions. Firstly, food assistance will be provided through the distribution of food rations to 2,000 individuals in 400 households, ensuring they receive essential nutrients according to SPHERE minimum standards.  

In terms of shelter, the project will supply 200 household shelter kits, benefiting 1,000 individuals in 200 households, to help establish emergency shelters. Health-related efforts include distributing hygiene and dignity relief items to 2,000 individuals in 400 households and supporting local health facilities to cater to 4,000 people through public health interventions. Additionally, the project will offer orientation on Psychosocial First Aid and peer support techniques to 300 community leaders, which will indirectly benefit another 300 affected individuals by equipping local leaders with essential skills to provide initial emotional and psychological support in the aftermath of the disaster.  

The disaster, which occurred on 24 May 2024, in the Maip Mulitaka Rural Local-Level Government area, led to extensive damage and fatalities, affecting 7,849 individuals (1,427 Households). The landslide displaced 1,650 individuals from 315 households, with numerous homes and lives buried under debris and essential infrastructure severely impacted. 

"IOM has been at the forefront of the relief operations from the very start and has been witnessing how difficult the situation on the ground is. People need help and at this critical hour the generous support of the Government of Japan arrived at a much-needed time for which we are grateful," said Serhan Aktoprak, Chief of Mission, IOM- Papua New Guinea. 

IOM’s response, coordinated with the National Disaster Centre, Provincial Authorities and other humanitarian aid organizations will ensure the provision of necessary supplies and services to the affected populations. The project, running from June to November 2024, focuses on immediate relief while laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience. 

About IOM: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is committed to ensuring humane and orderly migration, supporting displaced populations, and providing emergency response in crises. IOM works closely with governments and partners to address the needs of vulnerable populations worldwide. 

For further information, please contact IOM Port Moresby, Peter Murorera, Tel: +675 321 36 55, Email: pmurorera@iom.int or Anne Mandal, Tel: +675 72026763, Email: amandal@iom.int

IOM Papua New Guinea 

This press release highlights the essential contributions of the Government of Japan and details the specific outputs and assistance provided to the landslide-affected populations in Enga Province by IOM.