26 Feb 2016

Cyclone Pam recovery receives US$6.6 million boost

12:41 pm on 26 February 2016
Cyclone Pam destroyed much of the infrastructure on the southern Vanuatu island of Tanna when it struck in March 2015.

Cyclone Pam destroyed much of the infrastructure on the southern Vanuatu island of Tanna when it struck in March 2015. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana

Cyclone Pam recovery in four Pacific nations has received a boost, after a US$6.6 million dollar funding agreement by the Pacific Community and the German government's development bank, KfW.

Pam was a devastating cyclone in March last year that caused a lot of damage throughout Vanuatu, but also in Tuvalu, Solomon Islands and Kiribati.

The Pacific Community director-general, Dr Colin Tukuitonga, said the recovery from major disasters takes years and needs national governments, development partners and local communities working together.

He said the intent of the funding is to support activities to help the social and economic recovery of the four countries and build resilience.

Dr Tukuitonga said as the most severe impacts were felt in Vanuatu, many activities will be focused there.

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