The UN mobilizes relief effort to West Sumatera

Jakarta, 2 October 2009 – The United Nations (UN) is working alongside with the Government to provide assistance to the people of West Sumatera, and to coordinate the relief efforts of the international humanitarian community.

Within 24 hours of the earthquake which struck West Sumatera on 30 September, causing severe loss of life and extensive damage, the Government of Indonesia responded swiftly and effectively in mounting emergency relief efforts, indicating also that it would accept the help offered by many governments and international organizations.

The UN system in Indonesia deployed a joint mission on 1 October to help in coordinating a joint rapid assessment conducted by various international organizations to identify immediate emergency needs. A United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination System (UNDAC) team is also on the ground to help the Government in coordinating with international Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. Emergency funds are also on stand-by to complement the Government’s relief efforts.

Preliminary assistance provided by the UN includes family kits, school tents, health reproductive kits, and heavy equipment for SAR efforts.

Under the overall coordination of the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Indonesia, El-Mostafa Benlamlih, experienced staff, resources, relief supplies and logistical support from the UN are contributing to the national response together with international and local NGOs and other actors. The requirements of the affected communities are being assessed and responded, in order to assure the most effective use of available resources. A UN coordination desk has been set up in the West Sumatera Provincial Command Post (POSKO) in the Governor’s Residence.

”Considering the significant scale of the disaster, the UN in Indonesia remains committed to supporting, as necessary, the Government’s efforts to provide assistance to the affected communities”, said El-Mostafa Benlamlih. Anticipating the arrival of international assistance, coordination between the Government and those providing relief efforts is crucial in order to ensure that the assistance is evenly distributed to those most in need.”

At this difficult time, the primary thoughts of the United Nations family lies with those who have lost loved ones in this terrible disaster and our hopes are for the safe rescue of those who remain trapped.

Further Information:

Laksmita Noviera                       Olenka Priyadarsani                               Adila Arief

Email: noviera@un.org               Email: olenka.priyadarsani@undp.org      Email: adila.arief@unic-jakarta.org 

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