Port Moresby – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with the Department of Community Government and District Affairs and the Bougainville Disaster and Emergency Directorate recently delivered training in mass evacuation in disasters. Funded by USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, the training brought together key stakeholders, frontline responders, and representatives from at-risk communities in Torokina and Wakunai districts. 

This groundbreaking training marked the first of its kind in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, addressing key disaster management priorities. The Acting Director of the Bougainville Disaster and Emergency Directorate, Mr. John Lokobau, highlighted that the training aligns with the Papua New Guinea National Disaster Reduction Framework 2017–2030 and the draft Bougainville Disaster Management Plan 2024–2030.  The training initiative also responded to critical recommendations following the Mt. Bagana volcanic eruption on 7 July 2023. 

Throughout the training, participants engaged in group discussions that enhanced their ability to assess disaster impacts, and understand risks and vulnerabilities, and capacities to building community resilience. Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr. Jezreel Ivomari emphasized that building local capacity is essential to reducing disaster risks and safeguarding lives and properties. 

Key outcomes of the training included the development of Mass Evacuation plans for high-risk areas such as Carterets, Torokina-Wakunai, and Kokopau-Buka town. These plans address specific threats: 

• Torokina-Wakunai: At risk of Mt. Bagana volcano activity. 

• Carterets and Kokopau-Buka: At-risk of tsunamis. 

The finalized evacuation plans will be integrated into the Bougainville Disaster Management Plan, enhancing the region's overall resilience to nature-induced hazards. The development of this plan has received technical and financial support from IOM and USAID/BHA. Mr. Lokobau expressed profound gratitude to the U.S. Government for their generous financial assistance in the delivery of this vital training.  

“This training will help has empower local stakeholders with essential knowledge and skills to better prepare for hazards and effectively respond during disaster times,” he said.  

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For further information, please contact: 

Peter Murorera, Tel: +675 321 36 55, Email: pmurorera@iom.int 

Anne Mandal, Tel: +91-9902608752, Email: amandal@iom.int