Solomon Islands Earthquake and Tsunami Update

Thursday, April 12, 2007

 

 

Note: New content has been inserted in red, italicized, bold font.

 

Current Status

 

An 8.1-magnitude earthquake struck the Solomon Islands on Monday (April 2) at 6:40 a.m. (2040 GMT on Sunday) damaging houses and buildings and triggering a damaging local tsunami less than 5 minutes later.  The death toll reported by the UN remains estimated at 35 as reported by government officials. However, other government estimates put the death toll at between 39 and 42 people, with another 24 people missing. International media has reported at least 40 people dead. The Government of the Solomon Islands (GOSI) and aid groups say the death toll may rise somewhat as more reports come in from outlying areas of Western and Choiseul provinces. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that the number of reported injuries does not appear to be rising, although there are no new figures available. However, OCHA says that the number of injured may increase at health facilities in upcoming days as displaced populations begin to return to their homes from higher ground. Most of the deaths were reported to be from Gizo town, with an estimated population of some 6,000 people. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said that the disaster could have been worse if the earthquake struck a few hours earlier in darkness. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the shallow quake, some six miles below the sea floor, was centered some 25 miles (45 km) south-southeast of the island of Gizo, New Georgia Islands in the Western Province and located some 220 miles (350 km) northwest of the capital, Honiara. Aftershocks continue across the region, although frequency and magnitude are decreasing. A group of volcanologists will assess the Simbo and Ranongga volcanoes, even though activity levels are considered normal. According to Reuters, the International Seismological Center said that the quake was the biggest to hit the Solomons since 1900. Tsunami waves reached as high as 16 feet, and went as far inland as half a mile, according to some reports. The earthquake triggered a Pacific–wide tsunami alert, which was lifted about nine hours later (0540 GMT Monday). Some damage was also reported in neighboring Papua New Guinea (PNG), and reports say there were five unconfirmed deaths. OCHA reports that limited damage was caused in PNG, which includes Kangu Wharf, Buin and Torokina (Bougainville), Lae and Rossel Island (Milne Bay Province).

 

The worst-affected areas in the Western and Choiseul provinces appear to be the southern coast of Gizo, Simbo Island and the central southern coast of Choiseul between Moli and Posarae and Sasamunga. The National Disaster Council (NDC) says that other affected areas include Ranogga, Shortlands, Munda, Noro, Vella la Vella, and Kolombangarra. According to the UN, most of the tsunami-affected villages have been assessed. However, OCHA says that some areas have not yet been reached, although most radio contact has been re-established.

 

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Wednesday (April 11) that the number of affected populations is estimated at 9,000. Earlier reports indicated the number of affected appears to range between at least 15,000, according to the IFRC, and up to 50,000, according to the GOSI and the UN. The Ministry of Health (MoH), earlier estimated that up to 50,000 people may be affected out of a total population of 100,000 in Western and Choiseul provinces. UNICEF had also said that there is an estimated 50,000 people affected, out of which approximately 30,000 are children and 15,000 of those are under the age of five. The NDC says that some 5,500 people are thought to be displaced in the worst hit areas. Other media reports put the number displaced at as high as 7,000. OCHA estimates that there are at least some 1,500 displaced in 12 spontaneous camps in the vicinity of Gizo town. Local officials say that people may be in the camps for the next three to six months. The World Health Organization had reported another 3,000 displaced in Sasamungga. According to the Australian Red Cross, thousands more may be sleeping in the open on up to 50 islands affected in the region. Despite a lessening of aftershocks, many are reportedly still afraid to come down from the hills to return to their homes. The UN says that shelter and return of the displaced are the main challenges. Many displaced have reportedly left homes that were not damaged. OCHA says that in view of expected rains, the GOSI may provide the displaced with tents instead of tarpaulins. OCHA says that if that decision is made, more tents may be needed. OCHA says that in some camps, trenches had to be dug to prevent flooding. The UN says a majority of the affected continue to camp out in higher ground due to fears of another quake or tsunami. OCHA says trauma counseling may be another area requiring increased attention. Prime Minister Sogavare said the government will look into measures to avoid a repeat of the disaster, including resettling populations living in low-lying areas. The UN says that a message system is being developed to help inform local communities that it is now safe to return to their homes. Messages are being broadcast through the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC), encouraging people to return.

The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) says that between 900-2,500 houses have been destroyed in Western and Choiseul provinces. OCHA says the tsunami caused widespread damage to dwellings made from traditional materials, while the earthquake caused more damage to sturdily-constructed buildings. UNICEF is also reporting that 30 primary schools have been damaged. UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team says that some villages in low-lying areas have sustained the full impact of the tsunami and have been heavily affected, particularly on Gizo and Simbo, while villagers on more mountainous islands (Ranonngo, Vela, Kolombarra, Randova) have had significant damage to houses, gardens and water supplies due to landslides

 

Aid workers say that the focus of the aid effort was starting to move to relief and recovery. The Gizo airport is serving as a hub for the stocking and distribution of supplies. Taro air strip has also been reported to be open. However, because of the length of the runway, the strip is more suitable for smaller planes but not long enough for C-130s. Most of the local fleet of canoes and other boats were reportedly destroyed in the tsunami, hampering initial relief efforts. The GOSI reported that power and telephone services in Gizo had been restored on April 3.

 

GOSI officials say that relief supplies have reached all areas affected by the earthquake and tsunami. OCHA says that the Shortlands, Choiseul, Rendova, Vella le Vella and the Simbo Islands have been designated as priority for the provision of relief supplies. OCHA says a supply of medical emergency kits, rice, taiyo and water rations were sent on April 9 to the Shortlands, Sasamungga and Vella La Vella. Additional food supplies were dispatched to Sasamungga. The GOSI is planning another assessment and distribution of emergency supplies around the Shortlands starting Thursday (April 12). The UNDAC team is working with the NDMO and Red Cross to coordinate relief distribution from Gizo. Storage is being consolidated in Gizo in order to allow distribution of relief to outer islands. The Gizo wharf is also being prepared for night-time operations.

 

Red Cross reports there is enough food in affected communities. However, gardens in many areas have been damaged or destroyed. Many are still afraid to assess damages in fields because of fears of another disaster and have been relying on food supplied by aid groups. In the Shortland islands and other communities, OCHA reports that the tsunami destroyed reefs and fishing grounds that provided livelihoods. OCHA says provision of fishing canoes is one of the main needs, and tinned fish may need to be distributed until fishing resumes. Red Cross says there is a shortage of tools, bush knives, tarpaulins, mosquito nets and wat/san materials in Gizo. UN and Red Cross reporting scarcity of water is a problem especially in areas affected by landslides or areas that have experienced a drop or rise in the landmass due to the earthquake. OCHA reports that according to media reports, the quake lifted the island of Ranongga some 10 feet (3 meters) out of the water and moved its shoreline more than 200 feet (60 meters) out to sea. UNDAC says that in most cases it would be better to look for new water sources rather than rehabilitate existing ones. A group of engineers and geologists are undertaking a series of technical assessments on Ranonnga, while separate assessments are taking place in several areas along the southern coast of Choiseul island. OCHA says that streams and rainwater catchments are the main sources of water for the displaced communities. Water tanks and pipes in Gizo require urgent repair. Water distribution to the displaced remains a problem because of distances from sources and camps. OCHA says that in some areas the tsunami polluted local rivers. New water tanks have been established in Gizo town. The market in Gizo has reportedly opened. Shops and other markets expected to open in the next few days. NDC will assume responsibility of food distribution from the Red Cross from Friday (April 13). Red Cross will then focus on the distribution of non food items.

 

The UN reports that communicable diseases are under control, with only a few cases of diarrhea being reported. The MoH has a surveillance system in place to monitor for outbreaks of malaria. Bed nets are being distributed. The UN says that heavy rains are being forecasted for the next few days. MoH says there is a six to eight weeks supply of pharmaceuticals available in affected areas. The Red Cross reported back from visits to the outer islands and says that general health appears satisfactory. However, the UN says that medical assistance and medication is still needed in the camps where cases of diarrhea, flu, fever, cold and pneumonia have been reported. Officials have also expressed concern that a shortage of safe drinking water could lead to an outbreak of other waterborne diseases. Provincial officials have warned of the potential for cholera, malaria and other diseases because of poor hygiene in the camps. While aid workers warn of the heightened risk of disease in some camps following a disaster of this sort, it is not uncommon for diseases such as diarrhea to emerge in temporary shelters, where there are possible crowded conditions, a lack of clean water, and poor or no sanitation facilities. The tsunami had knocked out water tanks and left wells contaminated by sea water. The IFRC says that some dysentery cases have been reported among the displaced, but says that cases seem to be under control. A UNICEF team arrived in Gizo to implement measures aimed at preventing outbreaks of cholera and dysentery. The risk of water-borne diseases is being reduced with the distribution of water purification tablets and equipment. OCHA reports that sanitation in the camps near Gizo continues to be inadequate. Pit latrines are being constructed by affected communities. Save the Children Fund conducted a child protection assessment of Gizo, Simbo, Munda, Rendova, Vella la Vella and Ranongga and said that no serious child protection issues were identified. However, the UN says that psychosocial issues remain a concern.

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) is dispatching staff to provide support for malaria control. According to WHO, malaria control has improved in the Solomons in recent years; as malaria is endemic in the area, however, there is still a significant level of malaria parasitaema. WHO says that malaria cases are likely to begin to increase within two weeks and transmission will continue to increase over at least 2 months. The UN said that of the affected people, some 30,000 children are “highly vulnerable” to malaria because of a lack of medical supplies and unsanitary conditions. UNICEF says that it is working to distribute medical kits, including emergency drugs, to provide immunization against measles for children aged six months to 59 months, as well as working to distribute Vitamin A supplements. A measles vaccination campaign is planned for April 16. UNICEF and WHO are preparing additional distribution of anti-malarial drugs.

The GOSI reports that sufficient medical supplies and staff are now available to meet current needs. OCHA says that four strategic health bases have been set up in Gizo, Munda, Taro and Sassamunga. The Ministry of Health, with help from UNICEF and WHO, will set up 8 emergency field hospitals, including 4 in hospitals and 4 in rural clinics. Each unit is expected to cover the medical needs of 10,000 people for three months. Confirmed locations for the hospitals include Gizo, Taro, and Sasamunga. A basic health care unit was established in Sasamunga. Repair of the Gizo hospital is ongoing, OCHA says it should be operational within a week.

 

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare will lead a high level delegation on a 6-day visit to Western and Choiseul provinces later this week starting on Sunday (April 15). Technical experts from the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Water Resources, and health and sanitation experts will accompany Sogavare. (GOSI, Apr. 12)

 

Prime Minister Sogavare declared a national state of emergency on April 2. The government has requested international assistance. Upon a request by the GOSI on April 3, a 6-member United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team led by Joanne Laurence from Australia arrived on April 5. The UNDAC team is operating out of the NDMO headquarters in Honiara. According to UNDAC, the security situation in the islands seems to be calm and normal. According to OCHA, the GOSI is coordinating international offers of assistance through the NDMO Call Center on telephone + 677 27937.

Background

 

The impoverished Solomon Islands, located northeast of Australia, has a population of roughly some 550,00 people who live on some 200 remote and scattered islands in the South Pacific, many of whom live in simple palm and bamboo houses on beaches across the country. The Solomon Islands earns some money from tourism through small dive resorts, but most of the population lives on subsistence farming and fishing. The Solomon Islands lies on the “Pacific Ring of Fire” where earthquakes and volcanic activity is relatively common. Gizo town has an estimated population of some 6,000-7,000, while the island of Gizo, a popular diving and fishing spot, has an estimated population of roughly 10,000-20,000. Western Province has a population of some 62,000 people (1999). According to the USGS and World Health Organization (WHO), on July 21, 1975, a tsunami hit Bougainville Island in Papua New Guinea, killing some 200 people. (OCHA, Apr. 3).

 

 

Government Response

 

Government of the Solomon Islands (GOSI) declared a State of Emergency in affected areas on Monday (April 2) (WHO, Apr. 3) GOSI has declared the Western and Choiseul provinces as “national disaster areas” which gives GOSI better access to private and public transportation and additional budgetary flexibility. (OCHA, Apr. 4)

 

The NDC has declared priority needs as being tents, tarpaulins, food, utensils, water, containers, medical supplies, clothing and tools. (OCHA, Apr. 2) NDC has organized coordination meetings on a daily basis, with NGOs, UN and donor participation. NDMO beginning to identify medium to long term needs: Establish program of assistance for the reconstruction of houses; Repair Gizo hospital; Assist communities with obtaining building materials for canoes; Planning a transition from response to recovery activities; and capacity building for communities. (UNDAC, Apr. 6)

 

Government response is coordinated by the NDC and NDMO, and is chaired by the Ministry of Home Affairs. NDC established “Action Desks” in seven areas, each with its own field work team: 1) Health, 2) Communications, 3) Media, 4) NGOs, 5) Education, 6) Supplies and Finance, and 7) Transport. (OCHA, Apr. 5)

 

GOSI says an Emergency Operations Center is now in operation in Gizo and manned by all Heads of Departments. (GOSI, Apr. 4) GOSI says that with the establishment of the EOC, relief supplies are being more efficiently distributed and coordination is improving. (GOSI, Apr. 10)

 

The Central Coordinating Group (CCG) is tasked by the NDC for operational issues and is led by the Chief Police Officer. The CCG has created a sub-office in Munda, the largest town in the Western province. (OCHA, Apr. 4)

 

GOSI has deployed at least 87 public servants from various ministries and departments to affected areas. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

Information on the latest cash donations and pledges is being consolidated and forwarded to the NDC. The information will be forwarded to the Parliament, outlining any shortfalls, and the identification of any needs. (UNDAC, Apr. 10)

 

A joint NDMO – UNDAC study into the overall situation covering Western and Choiseul provinces, is being conducted. The information will be developed into a matrix table that will give a clear indication of needs and priorities. (UNDAC, Apr. 10) A joint NDMO – UNDAC team has developed a template for tracking the movement of the goods and services coming into Honiara, and the onward movement of these goods and services out of Honiara. (UNDAC, Apr. 10)

 

UNDAC says a logistics coordination group has been created and key actors in charge of warehouse logistics, aviation and marine sectors, including the NGO action desk and NDMO officers are part of this group. (UNDAC, Apr. 10)

 

NDMO has taken over from UNDAC the management of the reception center at Honiara International Airport. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

The GOSI warns ships traveling between the islands in the western and Choiseul provinces to take extra precaution as there has reportedly been sightings of shallow reefs which may have been caused by the earthquake moving underwater landmass upwards towards the surface. (GOSI, Apr. 9) NDC has requested an environmental impact assessment team. (UNDAC, Apr. 8)

 

NDMO is undertaking food distribution in the affected areas, and distribution is being coordinated by the Red Cross. (OCHA, Apr. 9)

 

The NDMO says that its warehouse at Point Cruz wharf is available for organizations who are planning to donate relief supplies to Western and Choiseul provinces. The warehouse is open 24 hours. (GOSI, Apr. 9)

 

The Deputy Police Commissioner says that three large police vessels and aircraft were distributing aid to priority areas. (AFP, Apr. 4) Two barges have joined police boats that have been delivering or loading supplies around the clock.

 

Ministry of Health (MoH) plans to set up 8 large emergency field units, 4 in hospitals and 4 in large rural clinics. Each unit can reportedly cover the needs of 10,000 people for 3 months. WHO and partners will assist 4 units, while UNICEF offered to support the 4 others. (WHO, Apr. 3) Confirmed locations for the hospitals include Gizo, Taro, and Sasamunda. (OCHA, Apr. 4)

 

NDC says trauma is a growing issue for those displaced by the disaster. A psychosocial group has been established and is meeting in Honiara. (GOSI, Apr. 11)

 

MoH dispatched an initial response team on April 2 and additional staff on April 6. MoH teams are assessing supplies, human resources and equipment needs in all clinics and key health centers. Five medical teams from the Red Cross, France, Taiwan, Canada and Australia have been deployed to help support the MoH. (OCHA, Apr 8) The MoH will collaborate with and direct a French medical team to tour clinics in outlying areas (UNDAC, Apr 8)

 

The Secretariat of the Pacific Community is working with the government to distribute mosquito nets, spray insecticide and distribute health information to affected people in the Western Province. (OCHA, Apr.3) A team from the malaria center of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) has been dispatched to the Solomons for vector control and is being supported by WHO and funded by the Global Fund for support of malaria activities. (OCHA, Apr. 5)

 

Three medical teams comprised of six doctors and 13 nurses set up medical centers at Gizo, the nearby town of Munda and on Taro Island on Wednesday (April 4). (AP, Apr. 3)

 

 

National Response

 

The Solomon Islands Red Cross (SIRC) is carrying out assessments in remote areas. (IFRC, Apr. 5) The SIRC distributed three containers of family packs to affected areas. (OCHA, Apr. 9)

 

OCHA says the relief effort is being supported by the local business community and NGOs. Solomon Kitano Mendana sent US$70,000 worth of food to Gizo hospital staff and patients. Ngalibiu Tsunami Fundraising Committee raised US$700. Solomon Airlines allocated flights for emergency workers. ANZ Bank Honiara, through Save the Children, supported the NDMO Honiara office. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

The Church of the Melanesia (CoM), the Anglican Church in the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, is undergoing an assessment with the local Anglican Disaster Committee in Munda and Gizo. CoM staff has training and experience in trauma counseling, pastoral care, and community leadership development. CoM may respond with food, water and other relief items, before engaging in rehabilitation work. (ACT, Apr. 5)

 

The Malaita Women’s Development Office in Auki is collecting donations from business houses and the general public. (GOSI, Apr. 12)

 

The Salesians of Don Bosco dispatched a ship from Honiara to Simbo and Ranongga with water, three 3,000-liter water tanks, 60 bales of mixed clothing, 1,000 treated mosquito bed nets, 1,000kg of rice, canned fish and other assorted food items. Panatina Chemists donated $10,000 for the relief efforts. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA) reports that assessment teams are visiting affected communities in Titiana, Paelonge Simbo and Ranongga. (ACT, Apr. 5)

 

 

International Response

 

United Nations

 

UNDAC says that based on current information, financial assistance from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) does not appear to be required. (UNDAC, Apr. 8)

 

A 6-member United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team working out of Honiara and Gizo. UNDAC team in Gizo, along with two TSF staff are continuing to operate a UNDAC Coordination Point jointly with the NDMO/GOSI at the Provincial Administrators Office. (OCHA, Apr. 8) SCF taking over coordination with national NGOs. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

UN Resident Coordinator (based in Fiji) Richard Dictus traveled to Gizo on April 11 to meet with UNDAC field team and other stakeholders involved in response. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

UNICEF requesting an initial US$500,000 to meet the urgent needs of children and women. (UNICEF, Apr. 4) Priority action areas will include Health and Nutrition (US$220,000), Water and Environmental Sanitation (US$120,000), Education (US$120,000) and Child Protection (US$40,000). (OCHA, Apr. 5) UNICEF mobilizing eight additional Full Emergency Health units to replenish initial units, as well as 30,000 ORS ad 30,000 water purification tablets. (OCHA, Apr. 10) Chaired Psychosocial Group meeting on April 10 with WHO, SCF Australia, UNIFEM, MOH, Ministry of Women, Youth and Children’s affairs, Social Welfare Office and UNDAC in attendance. Will undertake measles vaccination campaign and distribution of ORS on April 16 with the MoH. (OCHA, Apr. 10) Sent 8,000 ORC sachets to Gizo on April 11. UNICEF officers supporting Ministry of Education in Honiara and Ministry of Women, Youth and Children. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

World Food Program (WFP): Based on current needs, the WFP has decided not to intervene in the emergency, as it is being taken care of by the NGOs. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

World Health Organization (WHO): According to WHO, malaria control has improved in the Solomons in recent years, however, there is still a significant level of malaria parasitaema. WHO says that due to the time it takes to contract and transmit malaria, and the incubation time of the parasite, it is expected that cases will begin to increase within two weeks and transmission will continue to increase over at least 2 months. (OCHA, Apr. 5) Reports that malaria field teams continue spraying for vector control and distributing bednets. Deployed additional expert to assist WHO response. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

NGOs/IOs

 

Action by Churches Together (ACT) sent US$48,140 for implementing partners, Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA), United Church in the Solomon Islands and Church of Melanesia. Implementing partner World Council of Churches Office in the Pacific (WCCOP) plans to assist total of 100 families with food parcels sufficient for one month. Other relief to be distributed in affected areas as need arises. (ACT, Apr. 12)

 

Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has made US$10,000 available and will consider additional funding. (ADRA, Apr. 4) ADRA Australia visited Ranongga, Vella, and South Choiseul by helicopter. A team will be based at Kukundu, Kolombangara. (UNDAC, Apr. 6). Distributing relief to approximately 1,000 people in coastal areas of Choiseul, Ranongga and Vella La Vella islands. Assessing long-term needs for rehabilitation. (ADRA, Apr. 10)

 

Asian Development Bank (ADB) staff from the ADB Pacific Department will be sent soon to assist in identifying reconstruction and rehabilitation needs. (ADB, Apr. 4)

 

There are currently 14 Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) members working in the Solomons.

 

Australian Red Cross (ARC) sending medical equipment, relief items and at least two staff members to assist the SIRC. AusAID has given ARC US$200,000 to provide assistance. (ARC, Apr. 4) IFRC teams of Australians and New Zealanders has also arrived, along with 60 tons of rice. (Apr. 7, ARC)

 

Caritas trained trauma counseling teams in Guadalcanal and Malaita – six teams trained in gender issues and children will be arriving April 14. (UNDAC, Apr. 10) Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand funded reconstruction of water tanks, health/education infrastructure and trauma counseling through local churches in Gizo. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

Catholic Church chartered a ship for relatives in Honiara to take relief supplies to family in Simbo and Ranongga on Friday. (UNDAC, Apr. 6)

 

Council for International Development (New Zealand) says the following New Zealand-based NGOs are running appeals: Christian World Service (CWS), Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, World Vision New Zealand, ChildFund New Zealand, Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), Oxfam New Zealand, Rotary New Zealand and Save the Children NZ. (CID, Apr. 4)

 

Global Medic arrived with 550,000 water purification tablets and 10 water filtration systems for 1,500 – 1,700 people in five locations, as well as medicine kits for 30,000 people and hygiene kits for 15,000 people. (AFP, UNDAC, Apr. 9) Dispatched 100,000 ORS sachets and 1.4 million water purification tablet to Honiara for distribution by SCF. SCF, in partnership with Global Medic and Muslim Aid, is installing 10 water filtration systems in affected villages. (OCHA, Apr. 10) Joint team from SCF Australia, Muslim Aid Australia and Global Medic has restored water to Munda and Gizo hospitals. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

Habitat for Humanity in Australia has offered assistance in permanent housing solutions. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) preliminary emergency appeal is for US$819,000 to assist 5,000. Coverage is at 48%. (OCHA, Apr. 10) 1,000 local RC volunteers carrying out assessments and relief distributions. (Apr. 7, ARC) Five medical teams have been deployed to support MoH from Red Cross, France, Taiwan and Australia. (Apr. 8, OCHA) IFRC reported back from outer islands on April 9: General health, food situation reported satisfactory. Red Cross will continue with food distribution until April 13, after which it will focus on NFIs. (UNDAC, Apr. 10) IFRC compiling long-term recovery projects in wat/san and considering supporting housing reconstruction. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

International Tsunami Survey Team (ITST) arrived for early assessment of tsunami and earthquake impact. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

Muslim Aid: SCF, in partnership with Global Medic and Muslim Aid, is installing 10 water filtration systems in affected villages. (OCHA, Apr. 10) Joint team from SCF Australia, Muslim Aid Australia and Global Medic has restored water to Munda and Gizo hospitals. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

New Zealand Red Cross (NZRC) has pledged $10,000 (US$7,000) to SIRC and will provide in-kind assistance. (OCHA, Apr. 3) Dispatched three international staff (Water Sanitation Engineer, Media Liaison Officer, and Field Assessment Coordinator) and telecommunication equipment to assist SIRC. (OCHA, Apr. 10) Staff coordinating relief supplies arrival and needs assessments in 400 villages in Western Province. (NZRC, Apr. 11)

 

Oxfam leading the disaster assessment and response team by the NDMO that includes Oxfam, UN, Red Cross and government ministries. (Oxfam, Apr. 3) Oxfam NZ deploying disaster management, wat/san, public health and shelter experts for assessments. (OCHA, Apr. 10) Sent piping supplies to Gizo aboard French CASA plane. (OCHA, Apr. 10) Reached 3,000 people – 1,200 in and around Gizo and 1,500-1,700 on the southwest coast. Assisting in supplying water to camps and working closely with SCF. Sanitation is Oxfam’s main focus: providing wat/san facilities to camps and Munda hospitals, as well as technical support to local authorities. Working to promote proper health and hygiene with UNICEF, SAVE and MoH. Surveying and supporting shelter and reconstruction for IDPs. Planning to conduct livelihood assessments. (Oxfam, Apr. 10) Oxfam, on behalf of shelter cluster, convened meeting with NDC and provincial authorities to initiate discussions on transitional shelter and rehabilitation. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

Salvation Army: Two officers from the Salvation Army (PNG) arrived to help with needs assessment and to recommend areas where they can provide support. (UNDAC, Apr.6)

 

Save the Children medical team distributed water purifiers on Vella La Vella (Sambura) and to all camps along main road in Gizo. (UNDAC, Apr. 10) SCF taking over coordination with national NGOs per UNDAC. (OCHA, Apr. 10) SCF, in partnership with Global Medic and Muslim Aid, is installing 10 water filtration systems in affected villages. In collaboration with UNICEF, distributing over 650,000 water purification tablets. SCF Alliance and private donors have raised over A$100,000 in relief funding. (OCHA, Apr. 10) SCF Australia deployed members to Gizo for trauma counseling. (GOSI, Apr. 11) SCF distributed basic medicines and water purification tablets to four villages and camps in Munda, Rendavo and Vella Lavella. SCR Australia set up mobile distribution point for over 1,500 people in Gizo. Mobile water supply systems installed in Munda for 2,700; potable systems established in Rendova island; and sea-based water distribution by boat established for affected people in Rendova Harbor and Mandale. Joint team from SCF Australia, Muslim Aid Australia and Global Medic has restored water to Munda and Gizo hospitals. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

SOS sent 3 emergency GPs, a doctor, and a paramedic/nurse. The group will split into two teams with one going to Munda and the other to Taro. (OCHA, Apr 5)

 

Taiwan International Health Action has sent a team which arrived Friday. (UNDAC, Apr. 6)

 

Telecoms Sans Frontieres investigated functionality of AM/FM radio facilities at SIBC Gizo. SIG has plans to replace the AM antenna with an FM antenna. (UNDAC, Apr. 10) TSF providing telecommunications support to UNDAC in Honiara and Gizo. Running humanitarian calling operations for affected civilians. This is the sixth deployment of TSF with UN since signing an agreement with OCHA and UNICEF on May 2006. (TSF, Apr. 12)

 

World Bank team of experts in infrastructure damage and assessment, and rural and social development will arrive this week to assist in recovery. (WB, Apr. 10)

 

World Vision has appealed for US$500,000-700,000 emergency program (WVI, Apr. 4) World Vision continued with wat/san assessments in Simbo and Ranongga, and will handover wat/san in Gizo to Oxfam. Sent tarpaulins to Mondo and rehabilitating water supplies on Renongga. (UNDAC, Apr. 10) Reports that most families have received supplies in outer islands of Western Province. (GOSI, Apr. 11)

 

Foreign Governments

 

Australia providing additional assistance, bringing total to around US$3 million. Six Australian medical teams in all affected areas, including Sasamungga, Ronongga, Villa Lavella. Previously, over US$1.6 million (AUS$2 million) was given with US$500,000 channeled through Caritas, the Australian Red Cross, World Vision, and Oxfam. (WHO, Apr. 3) AusAID health team currently assessing Gizo and Munda; several Australian doctors in Gizo, Sasamunga, Targo and Munda. (OCHA, Apr. 7) AusAID continuing liaison between RAMSI and NGOs. ADF providing medical personnel and water treatment to Barisi, Sambura and two other locations. ADF environmental health team has arrived. (UNDAC, Apr. 10)

 

British High commission provided US$250,000 for relief supplies. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

Canadian medical team arrived on April 7. (WVI, Apr. 7)

 

China has provided emergency assistance in cash via the Red Cross Committee of China. No details reported. (Apr. 9, Red Cross Society of China)

 

Fiji will provide a cash grant of $F25,000 (US$15,000) to GOSI.

 

France sent medical team, and medical and relief supplies to Gizo by French military aircraft from New Caledonia. (OCHA, Jakarta Post, Apr. 8, 9) French/Casa plane is now in Honiara, freighting items three times a day for the next five days. (IFRC, Apr. 10) French Detachment Support team provided air transportation for over 16 tons of rice, medicines, vegetables and other supplies on 7-11 April 2007. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

Germany making available 50,000 euros (US$70,000). (GOG, Apr. 5)

 

Japan decided to extend its assistance to affected areas to US$500,000. US$300,000 will be channeled through UNICEF, and US$200,000 through the IFRC. (GOSI, Apr. 10) Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to dispatch assessment team for future needs. (GOJ, Apr. 10) Japan dispatched three engineers specializing in earthquake airstrip assessment. Yamaha Motor sent six boats, three of which are for the Western Province Assembly, Gizo Hospital and World Vision International, as well as a personnel manager and boat technician. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

New Zealand: NZAID dispatched a Hercules transport plane to Munda on April 4 with medical and water purification supplies. 15 health workers, 7 security personnel and another 10 staff will assist with police and distribution operations. (OCHA, Apr. 5) New Zealand government granted NZ$500,000 in emergency funds. Two Air Force C-130 delivered shelter supplies to assist 5,000. New Zealand platoon of 44 attached to RAMSI are also deployed to affected areas, while others are assisting in distribution in Honiara. (GNZ, Apr. 9) Two Air Load teams, consisting of 3 RNZDF personnel have arrived in Honiara – will assist in distribution of relief until April 15. (OCHA, Apr. 9)

 

Papua New Guinea delivered relief supplies via two planes. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

Australian and New Zealand military personnel based in the Solomons as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) have joined relief operations. RAMSI is providing two boats, 5 helicopters, and a fixed wing aircraft. RAMSI resources being used to evacuate the badly injured to Honiara, transport relief, and help with damage assessment. 100 additional Australian soldiers assisting. RAMSI working with GOSI for response to Western and Choiseul Provinces. All Participating Police Force transport assets have deployed. RAMSI’s military component also deployed upon request from SI Police Force (SIPF), which has supplied emergency relief. (RAMSI, Apr. 5) Third C-130 plane will depart for Solomon Islands on April 11 with relief supplies. (GOA, Apr. 10) AUSAID conducting daily helicopter airlifts. Police boats conducting major runs. (GOSI, Apr. 11) RAMSI conducting assessments and continues to provide transportation and logistics support. (OCHA, Apr. 11)

 

Taiwan provided assistance of 1.5 million SBD (US$215,000), a technical team and 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) of rice to SIRC. Three-member medical team arrived in Gizo on April 8. (OCHA, Apr. 7) Mobilized Taiwanese carrier boat from Honiara to send relief supplies (including food) and 3-person medical team to Gizo with medical kits. (GOSI, Apr. 11)

 

Turkey donated US$100,000 to the NDC. (OCHA, Apr. 10)

 

United States will contribute US$250,000 to support relief needs. USAID/OFDA provided US$50,000 to World Vision through the US Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, for immediate relief needs. US$200,000 was given for emergency shelter, wat/san, and health through humanitarian organizations working in the affected areas, in consultation with USAID/OFDA regional office in Bangkok, Thailand and US Embassy in Port Moresby. (USAID, Apr. 5) US ship, USS Stockholm en route to Honiara with relief supplies – expected to arrive April 10 or 11. (OCHA, Apr. 10)