WNB GOVT RELEASES K500,000 FOR MEDICAL SUPPLIES TO CYCLONE-HIT COMMUNITIES

BY RICKY ISRAEL

WEST Britain Provincial Government has allocated K500,000 for medical supplies for communities affected by Cyclone Maila earlier this year.

The funding is part of the K5 million provided by the National Government to support cyclone recovery in the province.

Deputy Governor John Rova presented the cheque to Borneo Pharmaceutical’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Jeffrey Thennyi witnessed by Director Disaster Clement Bailey, Director Curative Dr Uluk and Director Planning Paul Tokavai.

Provincial Disaster and Emergency Response Director Clement Bailey says the money will be used to purchase medicines from Borneo Pharmaceutical, adding that the supplies are expected to support health facilities in affected areas for about six months.

Acting Director for Curative Services, Dr Tarcius, says the support is crucial as the province continues to battle an ongoing drought which the Deputy Governor also affirmed the Provincial Government closely monitoring the situation and ensure necessary assistance is provided to affected communities.

Dr Tarcius says the medicines will support rural communities and help address diseases including diarrhoea and other water-borne illnesses.

Borneo Pharmaceutical’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Jeffrey Thennyi, says the company is committed to supporting the people of Western New Britain.

He confirmed that essential drugs are expected to arrive by October, following assessments that found the impact of Cyclone Maila mirrors the current drought conditions.

Once delivered, the medicines will be distributed directly to health facilities across the province to assist communities in need.

Deputy governor, Mr Rova said the Provincial Government will closely monitor the current drought situation and provide necessary assistance.

He said part of the funding were used to restore the Gloucester Airagilpua road, Garu bridge , the power line at Pasiloke and the washed out road at Kavutu in Hoskins.