Madang scales down on sectoral programs amidst ongoing El Nino climate

The Madang Provincial Government has scaled down funding support to the various sectors in the provincial administration amidst the ongoing El Nino climate.

Governor Ramsey Pariwa announced the scaling down during the 51st Independence Anniversary celebrations on Wednesday.

He has also sent out a public notice dated September 10, explaining the same.

Pariwa said as a responsible government, they have scaled down on some sectoral activities and programs, including sports and Independence events. He said they're focusing attention and funding support towards the provincial El Nino relief efforts in the wards and local level governments.

Funding assistance and any other support towards communities affected by the ongoing El Nino will be based on the respective assessment reports from the wards and LLGs, starting from this time until the El Nino impacts subside.

"DDAs have also made similar decisions as the provincial government. As your governor, I want to apologise to everyone, especially school boards, council wards, and LLGs, that we are not able to give you support to have your own Independence celebrations," Pariwa said.

He added that as a responsible government, MPG has taken appropriate measures to scale down on funding support on projects and activities in all sectors.

"Your understanding of the El Nino situation faced in the province is appreciated, and we expect your cooperation and adherence throughout this time," Pariwa said.

The governor is also urging all LLGs that have not yet furnished reports on the situations in their respective areas to do so immediately so that they can be eligible to receive some forms of assistance from the National Government.

Sumkar's LLGs, Sumgilbar, North, and South Karkar were the first to complete their assessment reports and have used them to compile the Sumkar District report, which has been presented to Governor Pariwa.

Bogia and Usino-Bundi districts are understood to be working on theirs as well.