BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Chairperson of the Western Province Disaster Committee calls on individuals and groups who have raised funds in the name of cyclone victims to come forward and clarify how those funds will reach affected communities.
Chairperson Collin Potakana made the call in response to questions raised by Island Sun regarding donations and fundraising efforts carried out across the country for victims of the recent cyclone.
It is understood that a number of fundraising drives have been organised by individuals, groups and even other provinces.
However, there remains uncertainty over how these funds are being channelled to support those directly impacted.
In an interview, Mr Potakana said both the Western Province Disaster Committee and the Provincial Disaster Emergency Operation Committee are unaware of any funds received from such initiatives.
“So far, no funds from those who raised funds towards cyclone victims in Western Province have reached us.
“We are only aware of the $2.5 million released by the government for food supplies and operational support,” he said.
Potakana said the absence of a clear mechanism to administer externally raised funds has created confusion for the committee, particularly in ensuring accountability and proper distribution.
He acknowledged the goodwill of individuals and organisations willing to assist but stressed that coordination is essential to ensure support reaches those in need.
“There are people with good hearts and helping hands who want to assist, but the missing link is ensuring these funds are utilised according to their intended purposes,” Potakana said.
He urges those involved in fundraising to liaise directly with the Provincial Disaster Committee to confirm how and where their contributions will be distributed.
“Other provinces have donated significant amounts towards cyclone relief and rehabilitation programmes, but we are yet to receive those funds.
“It is unclear whether these funds will be channelled through the National Disaster Management Office or directly to the province—that is the question right now,” Potakana said.
He emphasised that his priority is to ensure that any additional assistance reaches communities still struggling to recover from the cyclone’s impact.
He suggested that funds should be directed towards long-term recovery efforts, particularly in restoring food security.
“Most communities lost their gardens during the cyclone, so I believe these funds should be used to procure planting materials, seedlings and agricultural tools to help rebuild livelihoods,” Potakana said.
He also highlighted concerns over the growing reliance on rice among affected communities, warning of potential health implications.
“Many communities are currently depending heavily on rice. I suggest that funds also be used to purchase local food supplies such as sweet potato and cassava to support healthier diets,” Potakana said.
The Disaster Committee continues to call for greater transparency and coordination to ensure all assistance provided in the name of cyclone victims reaches those who need it most.
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