by Rachael Shisei – EM TV News, Madang
Andarum in the Yawar LLG of Bogia District in Madang rovince is the marked area for the volcano displaced Manam Islanders to resettle on, following the passing of the Manam Resettlement Bill.
Andarum is a very remote area, located several kilometres inland from the Bogia District station. From Andarum the group would take a one-day walk out to the main road, and then catch a PMV to town to access basic services.
A Madang Provincial Government team visited the people and assured them that they will get the much needed services they deserved for allowing the 20,000 plus volcano-displaced Manam Islanders to settle on their land.
“When you gave your blessing for the islanders to come to your land, you are saying yes to development to come to your area. When the islanders get here, they will pull all arms of the government here too,” said Madang Governor, Jim Kas.
Governor Kas went on to point out that if it weren’t for the Andarum people’s assurance, the Manam Islanders would still be fighting against themselves and the host communities at the Care Centres for food, water and other basic necessities.
The Governor, however, warned the people that development means roads and bridges connecting Andarum to other places, and may very well mean the added issue of criminal activity also finding its way into the area.
“A lot of problems will come with the development too, and it is up to all you elders of the villages to talk to your children, especially the youth to avoid these activities as much as possible,” Kas warned.
The Yawar LLG President, on behalf of his people, thanked the Governor and his team, and his people for accepting the Manam Islanders, hence bringing development to their area.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=2ZllAmbVko4%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
