United States Ambassador to Fiji Joseph Cella today announced the approval of US$100,000 (FJD$204,550) to support post-Tropical Cyclone Yasa relief works in worst-affected communities in the country.
TC Yasa, one of the strongest storms to hit Fiji with sustained winds of approximately 132 mph and higher gusts up to 215 mph, made landfall in the Bua province on December 17, caused at least four deaths, damage and levelled homes and schools, and forced more than 23,000 people to abandon their homes and seek shelter in evacuation centres.
The Bua province was the worst affected and accounted for three of the four deaths with the fourth recorded in Ra.
“This was one of the strongest storms to hit Fiji and it has caused incredible damage. We are pleased to announce this rapid assistance of US$100,000 to help Fijians, especially those on Vanua Levu, quickly recover. I am pleased to bring this support to fortify our bridges of friendship and prosperity at this difficult time,” Cella said.
Regarding the disbursement of funds, Cella said the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA) would work with local implementing partners to ensure it is done in a manner most effective and necessary.
This is the second round of USAID international Disaster Assistance for Fiji this year with the first US$100,000 sent in April to assist in the recovery efforts after Tropical Cyclone Harold.
