Government focus on resettling Manam and Kadovar Volcano Victims

The national government has reaffirmed its commitment to resettling families displaced by the volcanoes Manam Volcano in Madang and the Kadovar Volcano in East Sepik respectively in 2004 and 2019.

The Manam Volcano displaced over 9,000 people from the Island to mainland. The number increased after another significant eruption in 2018. The volcano eruption in East Sepik prompted the evacuation of over 500 people from the Kadovar Island.

Both eruptions led to significant humanitarian challenges including long-term displacement which now the government said to provide permanent land titles to secure the future of the victims.

The announcement was made after Prime Minister presented 199 land titles to families displaced by the 1994 Rabaul volcano eruptions in Kokopo, West New Britian.

“We will extend this process to ensure that all families affected by the 1994 Rabaul eruptions, the Manam Volcano, and the Kadovar Volcano will receive secure land titles through a proper government process, providing them the security and stability they deserve,” Marape said.

Marape assured that efforts are underway to find permanent solutions for both groups.

“The Manam issue is a significant one. The displacement caused by the 2004 eruption, and subsequent conflicts with Bogia landowners, have delayed the resettlement process.

“A new site near the Ramu River has been identified, but relocation challenges remain. I assure the people of Manam that their situation has not been forgotten. Minister Rosso and the National Lands Board are working to address this as a matter of urgency.

“Since their displacement in January 2018, the Kadovar islanders have been living at a care center in Dandan, Wewak, with plans to relocate them to Angoram. However, as sea people, they have struggled to adapt to an inland environment,” Marape said.

Mr Marape reiterated that Manam resettlement is a priority, and they are addressing it with the urgency.