BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
FOOD supplies are on their way to cyclone-affected communities in Shortland Islands as relief efforts continue across Western Province.
Patrol Boat Gizo departed Gizo yesterday and is expected to arrive in Shortland today, carrying much-needed assistance for communities impacted by the recent severe cyclone.
In an interview with Island Sun, Deputy Provincial Secretary of Western Province, Collin Potakana, confirmed that the vessel is transporting a significant consignment of relief supplies, including 1,000 bags of rice and other essential items.
He said the Patrol Boat has a capacity of 1,000 bags and that is the amount of food supplies that were sent yesterday.
Potakana said the distribution team will deliver supplies to communities in Mono, Nila, and other nearby islands before returning to Gizo.
He said a Rapid Assessment Team is also on board the ship tasked with conducting on-ground assessments while the distribution of food supplies takes place.
“Our Rapid Assessment Team is also on board the ship to carry out assessment while the food supplies are distributed,” Potakana said.
He said the Patrol Boat is scheduled to make another trip later this week with an additional 800 food supplies to Shortland Island.
Potakana said distribution efforts will be guided by available data, with teams already stationed in Shortland Islands to oversee the fair and efficient delivery of aid.
“We have a team in Shortland Island for the distribution of the food supplies,” he said.
Potakana said relief operations are also expanding to other hard-hit areas, with teams set to deliver food supplies and essential items to Simbo, Ranogga, Vella, and Rendova.
He said the Western Province Provincial Disaster Operation Committee is working tirelessly to ensure all affected communities receive the support they urgently need.
Food distribution efforts are expected to continue in the coming days as authorities respond to the widespread impact of the cyclone.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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