Solomon Islands Earthquake and Tsunami Update

Friday, April 13, 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. 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. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (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. According to OCHA, recent assessments indicate that the population of Vona Vona lagoon suffered considerable damage, is in need of additional food, and sanitation and water facilities also require repair. In Renvoda island, two villages (Madili and Rendova harbour) have been badly damaged. In the Shortland Islands, the village of Tumora was also damaged. The clinic in Mila, the main health facility for the Shortlands, was damaged and most of the supplies were lost or damaged. The GOSI also reports that a joint AUSAid and International SOS health team reported that many structures in the Shortland Islands had been destroyed, including the main health clinic. Some villages were reported to be deserted, with many living on higher ground. The assessment team reported no physical injuries but reported high levels of psychological trauma. GOSI said the group also reported a risk of diarrhea, respiratory disease and malaria in the affected population. OCHA reports communities in Kolombangara are in need of tents and food. Shortage of NFIs (cooking utensils, soap and clothes) in other areas has also been reported.

 

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

 

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 out of a total population of 100,000 in Western and Choiseul provinces. UNICEF had also says that out of the people affected, 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. 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 in some camps, trenches had to be dug to prevent flooding. The UN says trauma counseling may be another area requiring increased attention. 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 UN says that psychosocial issues remain a concern. 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. GOSI reports that assessment teams have suggested the relocation of several villages from coastal areas in Western province.

 

According to Agence France-Presse (AFP) the GOSI said that the emergency phase of the relief operation was complete as of Friday (April 13) and that the focus was now moving towards rehabilitation. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said that food was no longer a major issue as most gardens were intact. Sogavare said that what survivors most needed was help in rebuilding their lives. Aid workers have said that the focus of the aid effort was starting to move towards relief and recovery. GOSI says that relief supplies have reached all areas affected by the earthquake and tsunami. The Gizo airport serves as a hub for the stocking and distribution of supplies. 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.

 

Red Cross is handing over food distribution to the GOSI today (Friday, April 13). NDMO reports some shortages of rice in Gizo. GOSI officials say more rice will be sent to the town. However, the Red Cross reports there is enough food overall in affected communities. Red Cross will then focus on the distribution of non food items. 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. 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. 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 streams and rainwater catchments are the main sources of water for the displaced communities. OCHA says that in some areas the tsunami polluted local rivers.

 

The UN says that stagnant water, contamination of water sources, poor sanitation and limited access to health facilities are heightening the risk of malaria, diarrheal and respiratory diseases. Reports of new diarrhea and possible pertussis cases have been received, although levels do not reach emergency threshold. The GOSI also says assessment teams continue to identify water and sanitation as urgent needs. The UN reports that communicable diseases are under control, with only a few cases of diarrhea being reported. 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. The IFRC says that some dysentery cases had been reported among the displaced, but says that cases seem to be under control. A UNICEF team is 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. Pit latrines are being constructed by affected communities. OCHA reports UNICEF sent tens of thousands of packets of oral rehydration salts to Gizo, while Save the Children (SCF) distributed basic medicines and water purification tablets to four villages and camps. Save the Children Australia has also set up a mobile distribution point for three camps with over 1,500 people in Gizo. A mobile water supply system has been installed in Munda to service five camps with over 2,700 people. A joint team from SCF Australia, Muslim Aid Australia, and Global Medic has restored the water supply to Munda and Gizo hospitals.

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) is dispatching staff to provide support for malaria control. The MoH has a surveillance system in place to monitor for outbreaks of malaria. 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 some 30,000 children are “highly vulnerable” to malaria because of a lack of medical supplies and unsanitary conditions. UNICEF and WHO are preparing additional distribution of anti-malarial drugs. 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 by UNICEF, WHO and the MoH is planned for April 16.

 

Continuous rains have forced the makeshift hospital on Gizo Hill to relocate to a wing of Gizo hospital. In Sassamunga (Choiseul island), the hospital and medical clinic is badly damaged; medical debris and hazardous material have reportedly contaminated the local water source. 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) Sogavare announced April 23 would be a public holiday to remember those affected by the disaster.

 

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. NDMO and UNDAC team are developing an exit strategy for the UNDAC team, which is due to leave on April 19. 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 declared the Western and Choiseul provinces as “national disaster areas.” (OCHA, Apr. 4)

 

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)

 

NDMO and UNDAC team are developing an exit strategy for the UNDAC team due to leave on April 19. (OCHA, Apr. 13)

 

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)

 

GOSI says an Emergency Operations Center is now in operation in Gizo and manned by all Heads of Departments. (GOSI, Apr. 4) GOSI reports that the current situation on the ground as reflected from assessments contained in reports compiled by the Joint Core Coordinating Team (JCCT) has shown that emergency relief supplies had gone out to the majority of the affected areas within the Western Province. However, there are still a number of communities that were slowly receiving emergency supplies. The core-coordinating team, or JCCT, is made up of NDMO, UNDAC and Western Province Disaster Council staff. The JCCT is the main body operating out from the Emergency Operation Centre in Gizo. (GOSI, Apr. 13)

 

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)

 

In Gizo, a recovery meeting was held on 12 April. The participants agreed that the recovery efforts should focus on quick-impact activities in livelihoods, shelter, governance, environment and psychosocial assistance with the objective of enabling the communities to quickly recover and allowing the Provincial Government to resume service delivery. The Provincial Government requested agencies to conduct recovery activities through, and in formal agreement with, its structures. The Provincial Government will chair the subsequent recovery meetings. (OCHA, Apr. 13)

 

The NDMO is creating a database of key indicators from assessments carried out by various agencies. The database will provide a more comprehensive view of needs of the affected. (OCHA, Apr. 13)

 

Fred Fakarii (NDC Chairman,) Loti Yates (Director NDMO)and Richard Dictus, the UN Resident Coordinator (RC), met with Honiara-based donors on Thursday (April 12). The next donor meeting will be held on Friday (April 13)and will be chaired by Fakarii. (OCHA, Apr. 13)

 

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) Some 70% of relief cargo received at the Honiara airport has been distributed since April 3. (OCHA, Apr. 13)

 

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)

 

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)Psychosocial Meeting was held on Thursday (April 12) with representatives from WHO, UNICEF, Save the Children (SCF), the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, UNIFEM, NZAID and UNDAC in attendance. The group discussed implementation of psychosocial support projects in the affected areas. (OCHA, Apr. 13)

 

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 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)

 

United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC): NDMO and UNDAC are developing exit strategy for UNDAC, which is due to depart from Solomon Islands on April 19. UNDAC field team in Gizo will return to Honiara on April 16. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

UN Resident Coordinator (based in Fiji) Richard Dictus with NDC and NDMO met with Honiara-based donors on April 12 – next donor meeting to be held on April 13 and chaired by NDC. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

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) 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) Donated 300 windup radios and 200 tents – ordered additional large family tents. UNICEF and WHO supporting MOH in preparing measles vaccination campaign. Nurses to implement vaccination and Vitamin A campaign to be deployed on April 16 and 18. Donated 1,000 ORS sachets and 6,000 bars of soap. UNICEF and other agencies preparing community mobilization campaign on wat/san. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

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. 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) UNICEF and WHO supporting MOH in preparing measles vaccination campaign. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

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 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 sent soon to assist in identifying reconstruction and rehabilitation needs. (ADB, Apr. 4)

 

Australian Red Cross (ARC) has given ARC US$200,000 to provide assistance. (ARC, Apr. 4)

 

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)

 

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 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)

 

Global Fund sent 48,000 mosquito nets to GoSI. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

Habitat for Humanity 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) Five medical teams 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) Red Cross Secretary General Charles Kelly said that so far, US$43,000 has been spent on the relief effort. (RNZI, Apr. 12)

 

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, 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) 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 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) Oxfam and SCF are carrying out distribution of drinking water in IDP camps. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

Save the Children taking over coordination with national NGOs per UNDAC. (OCHA, Apr. 10) 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. SCF 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) Oxfam and SCF are carrying out distribution of drinking water in IDP camps. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

SOS: Joint AUSAID and international SOS health team traveled to Shorlands Islands in April 12 and reported many structures destroyed, including main clinic – some villages largely deserted with most residents living on higher grounds. Significant risk of diarrhea, respiratory disease and malaria remains. (GOSI, Apr. 130

 

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) Reports that most families have received supplies in outer islands of Western Province. (GOSI, Apr. 11) Distributed NFIs (including shelter items) for 800 people on Simbo island. Carrying out wat/san activities in Ranongga, Simbo and Gizo. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

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. AusAID continuing liaison between RAMSI and NGOs. ADF providing medical personnel and water treatment to Barisi, Sambura and two other locations. (UNDAC, Apr. 10) ADF set up medical center in Sasamungga – reaching communities on high ground who do not wish to return to villages yet. ADF environmental assessment following up on issue of medical waste contaminating the local water source. (OCHA, Apr. 12) Joint AUSAID and international SOS health team traveled to Shortlands Islands in April 12 and reported many structures destroyed, including main clinic – some villages largely deserted with most residents living on higher grounds. Significant risk of diarrhea, respiratory disease and malaria remains. (GOSI, Apr. 13)

 

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

 

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)

 

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) Japan-based Sumitomo Metal Mining Company mining firm doing prospecting work in SI has donated US$50,000. (Solomon Star, Apr. 12)

 

New Zealand: 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) Focus of New Zealand’s response moving towards recovery and reconstruction. RNZAF Hercules will fly to Solomons on Sunday (April 15) with final cargo of emergency supplies, including shelter items. NZAID has been coordinating response with France, Australia, Red Cross and other NGOs active in the Solomons, including Rotary, ADRA, Caritas, SCF, CWS, Oxfam, UNICEF and World Vision. (OCHA, Apr. 13)

 

Papua New Guinea delivered relief supplies via two planes. (OCHA, Apr. 11) Interim government of neighboring autonomous PNG province of Bougainville donated cash assistance of SBD$120,000 (US$17,200) to GoSI. (GoSI, Apr. 13)

 

Australian and New Zealand military personnel based in the Solomons as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) conducting assessments and continues to provide transportation and logistics support. (OCHA, Apr. 11). RAMSI is providing two boats, 5 helicopters, and a fixed wing aircraft. 100 additional Australian soldiers assisting. 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) AUSAID conducting daily helicopter airlifts. Police boats conducting major runs. (GOSI, Apr. 11) Will phase out helicopter support between April 12 to 14. (OCHA, Apr. 12)

 

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 Kingdom: British High commission provided US$250,000 for relief supplies. (OCHA, Apr. 11) UK also plans to contribute towards development project for long-term recovery. (GoSI, Apr. 13)

 

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 military ship, USNS Stockham en route to Honiara with relief supplies – expected to arrive April 10 or 11. (OCHA, Apr. 10) US military will provide air transportation to tsunami-affected areas through two helicopters. (OCHA, Apr. 12) USNS Stockham military ship has reportedly anchored off Gizo with relief supplies – will assist in distributing aid to local communities and is assessing situation on the ground as efforts move to recovery. (Xinhua, Apr. 12)

 

Vanuatu: SI Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare received nearly SBD$500,000 (US$71,700) total from former Vanuatu Prime Minister Barak Sope and retired Australian Army general Les Mechtler, who also resides in Vanuatu. (GOSI, Apr. 12)