El Nino funds in Simbu sent directly to districts

The Simbu Provincial Disaster Office has clarified that the K2.5 million El Nino Relief Funding from the National Government has been remitted directly into all District Development Authority (DDA) accounts.

Provincial Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Coordinator, George Grayson said in a public notice that all disaster relief funding and operational implementation responsibilities have now been decentralized back to the districts.

"Respective DDAs and District Disaster Committees hold full responsibility for implementing relief measures, procuring relief supplies and assisting affected communities.

"Members of the general public seeking El Nino disaster relief, food supplies, water assistance or agricultural support are advised to direct all inquiries and requests to their respective District Administration or DDA Office," he said.

Grayson said the Provincial EOC Office now serves strictly in a coordination capacity only - to coordinate, monitor and facilitate communication.

He said his office does not receive, hold or disburse any district relief funds to individuals or groups.

He urged general public not to visit the Provincial EOC Office for direct assistance.