ACT News Update

Pacific 01/04

Churches in South Pacific prepare responses to Cyclone Heta

Geneva, January 9, 2004—Churches in the South Pacific region where Cyclone Heta hit with winds of up to 300 km per hour on January 5 and 6 are reporting widespread damage and are appealing for help. The cyclone devastated the tiny island of Niue and damaged parts of Samoa and Tonga.

On behalf of the councils of churches in Samoa, Tonga and Nuie, the World Council of Churches (WCC) Pacific Office and the Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC) are requesting funds from the Action by Churches Together (ACT) International alliance for immediate purchase of much-needed relief items.

In Niue, at least one person was killed and around 200 people left homeless, according to media reports. The media are also reporting that medical teams and emergency supplies have arrived by plane from New Zealand. Another aircraft, carrying more supplies and emergency workers, is expected today.

PCC, based in Fiji, has been trying unsuccessfully to reach the Niue Council of Churches. "It seems like all communication on the island is cut off," says Leva Kila Pat, acting general secretary of PCC.

The Samoa Council of Churches (SCC) is reporting destruction on the main island of Upollu and parts of Savaii, Samoa's largest island. Most victims sought refuge in the homes of village pastors and wealthier families, according to SCC, which also says the cyclone damaged food gardens, houses and power and water lines. Some areas were without power and a number of roads were impassable on Wednesday, but the cleanup has begun.

The Tonga Council of Churches (TCC) says that approximately 20 houses were demolished and another 15 lost their roofs. Residents of these houses are staying in churches. The cyclone also damaged root crops and caused water shortages, according to TCC.

SCC says the main needs in Samoa are food items, tarpaulins, water and sanitation. The churches there are already providing counselling and food to residents. The needs in Tonga are similar. The current request for funds covers the same assistance in Niue, anticipating requirements for these items.

The ACT coordinating office is preparing to provide assistance through its Rapid Response Fund mechanism. WCC's Pacific Office, also based in Fiji, will act as coordinator of the relief in consultation with SCC.

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