BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Livelihood Sector Committee is awaiting direction from the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) before it rolls out its response to assist communities affected by the Tropical Cyclone Maila.
The committee was activated following the NEOC’s activation on Saturday, 4th April.
Its primary focus is to ensure food security and support livelihood activities in affected communities.
Speaking at a press conference over the weekend, Chairman of the Livelihood Sector Committee, Michael Ho’ota, said the committee comprises of key government ministries, including Forestry, Fisheries, Commerce, and Tourism, working together to coordinate response efforts across sectors.
Ho’ota explained that while a full Initial Damage Assessment (IDA) is planned, the immediate priority is the delivery of food relief to the most affected communities.
He said the IDA is critical to determine the extent of the damage and identify appropriate support, but its rollout will depend on improvements in current weather conditions.
The chairman added that initial assistance will prioritise severely affected areas in Choiseul province and Western province, while also taking into account the needs of other impacted provinces.
Ho’ota further confirmed that the committee has finalised its response plan and submitted it to the NEOC, and is now awaiting approval to begin implementation.
Photo credit: MALD
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