by Bradley Asa and Daniel Gerson (Volunteer Communication Officer)

Finding Hope Amidst Tragedy: Esther Ere’s Journey to Aid Her Community

The devastating landslide that struck Yambil in Mulitaka Enga Province on May 24, 2024, buried hundreds of people and displaced thousands. Among the many who lost loved ones, Esther Ere mourns the loss of five relatives. Motivated by a deep, personal connection to her stricken village, Esther recently joined the Western Highlands Branch to contribute to the recovery efforts.

Esther’s story is one of profound loss and remarkable strength. She lost five relatives, including cousins from her mother’s side to a catastrophic landslide that buried 173 people in the early hours of a fateful morning. Reflecting on her experience, the 65-year-old retired accountant from Wabag shared,

“Losing my family to the landslide was a heartbreak beyond words, but it ignited a fire within me to help those who survived.”

Despite search and rescue efforts, the bodies of her family members remain buried under the debris.

Determined to assist her displaced and traumatized community, Esther registered as a volunteer with the PNG Red Cross Society. Her dedication is not just about providing aid but also about restoring dignity and hope to those affected.

“Water is a necessity in life, and right now, it’s what our people need the most,” she emphasized, having already contributed food rations worth over K2000 to the affected families.

Esther’s commitment goes beyond material aid. As an educated member of the Mulitaka community, she feels a profound moral obligation to help. “In times of crisis, we must rise to the occasion and support each other. It is our duty,” she remarked.

On June 22, 2024, Esther joined a of team of volunteers from Western Highlands Branch led by from the PNG Red Cross Society’s WASH Program. Their mission was to install a water purification system in Mulitaka—a task Esther was particularly grateful to undertake.

“Being able to provide clean water to my community is a step toward healing and rebuilding,” she said, her eyes reflecting both the pain of her loss and the hope for a better future.

Esther Ere’s story is not just about tragedy; it’s about resilience, community, and the unwavering human spirit. Through her volunteer work, she honors her lost loved ones and exemplifies the strength and compassion that can emerge from even the darkest times.

Many volunteers from Enga have expressed their strong desire to help their communities. The Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society with the support of the International Federation of Red Cross, the Australian Red Cross and other donors are working together with local authorities and other humanitarian agencies to provide support to the displaced population as they recover from the devastation landslide.

CURRENT SITUATION

One of the largest and most devastating disasters in PNG occurred on Friday, May 24, 2024, at 3:00 a.m. when a landslide struck Yambali village in the Maip Mulitaka LLG of Lagaip-Porgera District, Enga Province. The landslide covered two communities and six villages (9 hectares), including a school, health facility, water sources, and houses, with mud and rocks.

An estimated 7,849 people from 1,327 households were affected, with 1,650 people from 315 households displaced. The main highway was blocked, cutting off access to food supplies and essential services for the affected communities. The numbers of deaths, casualties, and other details are not yet confirmed: PNG DMT flash updates, IOM Rapid Assessment Report, May 29, 2024

Shelter and Relocation

The recent earth movements have displaced many individuals, who are currently being sheltered in tents at a care centre. Due to the ongoing risk of another landslide, these displaced people will be temporarily relocated to a nearby high school. Host communities in the affected area have also been evacuated to safer grounds, as the land continues to shift. There is a notable shortage of essential sleeping beds, and the provincial government, along with the coordination team, is actively working to identify safe land for permanent resettlement.

Water and Food Supply

The landslide has severely impacted the water supply by contaminating the main water source, a nearby creek. Initially, the care centre accessed water through pipes connected from a dam belonging to a host community. However, this supply was cut off as the host community cited that their own needs were not being met. Although the provincial government has provided some cash compensation, there is widespread dissatisfaction due to inconsistencies in the distribution among various committee groups.

Sanitation

The temporary nature of the care centre has led to rapid deterioration of sanitation facilities. Responding agencies have set up pit toilets, but overcrowding and limited space between tents have heightened health risks. The current conditions pose significant sanitation challenges, with urgent needs for improved facilities and hygiene management.

Relocation

Displaced communities are scheduled to be moved to a high school temporarily while a permanent relocation site is identified. The process of securing a permanent location is expected to be lengthy. During their stay at the care centre, additional assistance is crucial. This includes:

•          Food and water supply

•          Psychosocial support

•          Provision of shelter items

•          Sanitation and hygiene kits

•          Safe spaces for women and children

Efforts are ongoing to address these needs and ensure the wellbeing of all affected individuals. The Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society, with financial support from the International Federation Red Cross, the Australian Red Cross and other donors, are on the ground assessing and gathering critical information needed to provide long-term support to the affected people.