Amidst the reports of post-earthquake violence and tribal fights in Tari, the Family and Sexual Violence Action Committee is concerned about the welfare and safety of displaced women and children made homeless following the disaster.
The FSVAC is appealing to community and tribal leaders as well as individuals including men, to put an end to the fighting and pursue conflict resolution so that much needed humanitarian support and government assistance can continue into the province.
According to ground reports, displaced women and children who have been traumatized by the earthquake disaster have been greatly affected and have become further displaced after tribal fights erupted in parts of Tari.
FSVAC National Coordinator Marcia Kalinoe said women, children and elderly people are the most affected in any disaster and are vulnerable, putting up with harsh living conditions like lack of proper shelter, clean water and poor sanitation, lack of proper nutrition and maternal and pediatric care.
Kalinoe says the safety and emotional wellbeing and welfare of such venerable groups at this time is of paramount importance and authorities should act immediately to ensure that the issue of tribal fights and the general lawlessness is dealt with so that relief efforts can continue to the most affected areas.
Meantime, the CIMC committee is also calling on men and women in the affected areas to start thinking seriously about promoting safer communities and strengthening the family unity.
Meanwhile, Quake survivors who have become further victimized by tribal fights in the area that are in need of counseling can call the 1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain 71508000.