ERKs in Samoa and Fiji

The following report has been received from Stuart Batty, RNZWCS

Following Cyclone Evan, Rotary’s Emergency Response Kits  have been distributed in Samoa and Fiji. In Fiji, the western division of Viti Levu seems to have suffered the worst effects of the wind in the regions from Rakiraki through Ba, Lautoka, Nadi and Sigatoka.

Rotarians from Suva headed to the Western Region at 6.30am on Tuesday the day following the Cyclone causing havoc to assist the Rotary volunteers in the west.

The team of 7 vehicles with 30 Rotarians also included Peter Lund from the NZ Head of Mission in Suva together with the Australian High Commissioner in Fiji and a US diplomat currently in the country.

Many recipients of the kits have said that it was the first tangible assistance they had received. Rotary’s rapid response is assisted by many community volunteers and businesses who supply logistical support including trucks and 4 WD vehicles to enable the most isolated to be visited.

Rotary in Samoa is already turning its attention to the next most immediate need which is “safer” water. With typhoid cases being reported affirmative action is needed and Rotary is consulting with government agencies to address the issue.

Fijians are very resilient people and there is a flurry of activity as they repair their damaged homes which many some 24 hours later able to move back in. The ferocity of Cyclone Evan has stretched budgets and many will need assistance with building materials.