By Eric Haurupma, EMTV News – Port Moresby
Gabagaba village in the Central Province will now have access to good drinking water.
Thanks to the US Government for supplying 12 new water tanks.
This is part of the US Government New Climate Change Adaptation Project that aims to combat climate change issues in the Pacific region.
US Ambassador, Catherine Ebert-Gray, and delegates received a rousing welcome by villagers during the launching ceremony.
This Coastal Community Adaptation Project is the positive outcome of the United States public private partnership with PNG Government through the Climate Change Development Authority.
Papua New Guinea Climate Change Development Authority Director for Adaptation and Projects, Jacob Ekinye, said the Government of Papua New Guinea is committed to addressing climate change issues.
The recent installation of water supply tanks in the village funded by the US Government is as part of rainwater catchment system in the community supported by the PNG Government.
Pillar 5 of Vision 2050 clearly articulates the government’s ambition to promote environment sustainability by combating climate change.
Over the years, water security has been a challenge for the community due to salt water intrusion and prolonged droughts.
Realising these risks, the US Government has come to the aid of 12 water tanks.
The storage of approximately 100,000 plus litres of water will sustain people during time of drought and natural disasters.
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) and Coastal Community Adaptation Project (C-CAP) programs will continue to provide resilient measures in coastal communities vulnerable to impacts of natural disasters.
Village councilor, Donald Agarobe, on behalf of the community thanked the US Government for initiating this important project in the village.
