Naskwabu wreaks of dead coral and fish

Sunday, 19 April 2026, 3:00 pm

An atoll island around Woodlark (NBC News)

Naskwabu Island, off the coast of the larger Woodlark Island, with a population of over 340, is reporting a strong stench from dead coral and fish that could pose a health risk to residents.

It’s been over a week since Tropical Cyclone Maila ravaged through their island and aside from the stench, they’ve also a food problem.

The island, located some 50kilometers from mainland Woodlark Island, a coral atoll, reports Cyclone Maila had literally dug up coral from the sea and washed them ashore during the 11days of intense winds.

Garry Inosi, the ward recorder at Naskwabu Island.

The stench from dead coral reefs and fish is a worry, Inosi says the stench is getting worse and they need help with it.

Naskwabu has a population of over 340 people, almost 10 homes were destroyed of the recorded 63 households on the island.

They are one of many communitirs awaiting Government assistance, at least to get back up on their feet.