UNDP and the Enga Provincial Government launch a plan to help communities recover from the Mulitaka landslide

November 13, 2024
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The plan was officially initiated in Wabag on 13 November 2024

Seru Kepa | UNDP Papua New Guinea

UNDP and the Enga Provincial Government have officially launched the ‘Mulitaka Disaster Recovery Plan’, marking a crucial steps towards recovery for communities affected by the devastating landslide that struck Maip Muritaka Rural LLG on 24 May 2024 this year. The comprehensive recovery plan, which UNDP provided critical technical assistance in developing, was unveiled at the Ipatas Center in Wabag, Enga Province on 13 November 2024.

In his address to the participants, UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth, expressed how pleased UNDP has been to provide vital support to the Enga Provincial Government to develop the recovery plan, which prioritizes restoring livelihoods, strengthening disaster preparedness, and ensuring long-term resilience against future disasters.

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UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth, reiterated his commitment to the recovery of the communities affected by the landslide

Seru Kepa | UNDP Papua New Guinea

‘’Our ongoing partnership with the Enga Provincial Government reflects a shared commitment to support those most affected, to restore hope, and rebuild lives of the people of Mulitaka and Enga Province. This plan focuses on the critical priorities for the recovery of those communities impacted by the landslide and will also take into consideration the broader long-term development goals for the province,’’ Mr. Booth stated. 

The plan outlines the provincial government’s vision for the recovery of those impacted by the landslide, as well as the framework for implementing it. The plan has a strong focus on supporting and increasing the resilience of most vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disability.  

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The Governor of Enga Province, Sir Peter Ipatas, thanked UNDP for its active support to the Government throughout the disaster response

Seru Kepa | UNDP Papua New Guinea

"This is a significant step forward for the people of Mulitaka and Enga Province. The devastation of the landslide has greatly impacted our communities, with lives tragically lost and families displaced. I commend UNDP and other UN agencies and donors who stood with us, providing critical relief and support on the ground. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and support,’’ stated the Governor of Enga Province, Sir Peter Ipatas KBE, GCL MP. 

To close the ceremony, Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, Mr. Nicholas Booth and the Provincial Administrator of Enga, Mr. Sandis Tsaka, signed the recovery plan document to officially initiate its implementation. 

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The ceremony closed with the official signing of the recovery plan document

Seru Kepa | UNDP Papua New Guinea

Other key officials in attendance included the Deputy Provincial Administrator and Controller of the Mulitaka Landslide Disaster, Mr. Kenneth Andrew; Mr. Robin Yakum from the National Disaster Center; and Mr. Jaman Yandam the Ward Councilor for Mulitaka Mangalo and the representative of the communities impacted by the landslide.