-As Food Distribution Efforts Commence
By Vaye A. Lepolu
The World Food Programme (WFP) has donated US$1.5 million to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) to alleviate poverty among flood victims throughout Liberia. This generous financial contribution comes in response to a United Nations initiative urging all operational organizations to provide support to those affected by recent flooding across the nation.
Mr. Ansu Dullie, Executive Director of the NDMA, stated that the agency will collaborate with the United Nations to process the data necessary for effective distribution of the funds.
According to Mr. Dullie, the donation will benefit approximately 5,200 households, equating to around 28,000 Liberians. Each flood victim will receive US$45 through mobile money transactions, aimed at providing immediate relief during this challenging time.
He further explained that this assistance will be distributed over a four-month period, helping families sustain themselves and rebuild their lives.
In addition to financial aid, the NDMA has dispatched volunteers to communities across Montserrado County to distribute water purification supplies, ensuring access to safe drinking water for those affected.
During a press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) on Tuesday, Mr. Dullie highlighted the NDMA’s commitment to supporting the growth and development goals of President Joseph N. Boakai’s administration.
In a related development, the Liberian government has allocated an additional US$500,000 along with other humanitarian supplies for distribution to flood victims, set to begin next week. Mr. Dullie emphasized that Liberia is not solely reliant on international organizations; rather, it is taking proactive steps to support its citizens and reduce poverty levels among flood victims.
He also urged citizens to refrain from constructing homes in flood-prone areas and to avoid backfilling waterways, particularly in areas like Mango Summup. Mr. Dullie warned that such practices contribute to severe flooding across the country and called on all Liberians to exercise caution and responsibility in their building practices.
