El Nino humanitarian emergency

Health and National Disaster Services Minister Dr Billy says the Government is now prioritizing water, food and health for the worst-affected provinces.

Fifteen provinces are facing extreme drought conditions while five others severely affected.

According to the National Disaster Center, the provinces classified as extreme include the National Capital District, Central, Gulf, Western, Hela, Simbu, Eastern Highlands, Morobe, Oro and Manus.

West New Britain, West Sepik, Milne Bay, New Ireland and East New Britain have been classified as severely affected.

Dr. Joseph confirmed this when addressing development partners and stakeholders in Port Moresby recently.

Reports from Southern Highlands show that about 300, 000 people do not have reliable access to safe drinking water.

The report also identifies children, women, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, elderly, people with special needs and those living in remote communities as the most vulnerable during the El Nino.

This is affecting water supplies, food security, health services, education and livelihoods.

The El Niño-induced drought has now developed into a national humanitarian emergency.

Dr. Joseph highlighted findings from consolidated drought assessments and situation reports submitted by Provincial Disaster Committees and Provincial Emergency Operation Centers for June to August 2026.

Madang and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville are yet to submit their drought assessment reports, while assessment continue across the country.