Atereano Mateariki RNZ Pacific journalist
Vanuatu’s
cabinet ministers have approved just over US$1 million
(VU$126 million) in aid to communities in Penama Province
affected by volcanic ashfall.
The ashfall comes from
activity at the Manaro Voui volcano on Ambae
Island.
The approval follows recent ground assessments
on Ambae, for which the Council of Ministers had earlier
approved US$170,000.
The final assessment reports
confirmed widespread impact on food gardens, water sources,
and shelter due to heavy ashfall, requiring immediate
government intervention.
The government said help
would be delivered quickly, with public funds used
transparently and responsibly.
The cabinet also
approved funding for El Niño response packages for islands
in Torba and Penama Provinces, and more funding for the
MV Matui search and rescue mission and an upcoming
commemoration ceremony.
The Penama Provincial
Government in Vanuatu has welcomed the aid
funds.
Penama government spokesperson Gibson Bani said
the money would help implement a regional response they have
been trying to get approved for a long time.
Bani said
most of the financial aid would go to water drilling
projects on Ambae and Pentecost Islands as well as roadworks
to improve
accessibility.
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