Emergency Appeal for the Solomon Islands

Tuesday, April 03, 2007

Media Release

Emergency Appeal for the Solomon Islands

Christian World Service (CWS) today launched an emergency appeal to support the people of the Solomon Islands in response to the severe earthquake and resulting tsunami that struck part of the islands on 2nd April.

The most severely affected areas are Choiseul and Western Provinces. While reports are still sketchy, in both places there has been widespread property damage and loss of life.

Ruth Liloqula from CWS’s partner, the Lauru Land Conference based in Choiseul, has reported that two metre high waves travelled up to 200 metres inland, causing major property destruction and contaminating drinking water. “It is indeed a very big concern and I just hope that our people got to safer ground,” says Ruth.

Ruth’s family home, which had already been damaged by the rise in sea level, was further damaged by the tsunami.

It is clear that beyond the immediate need both for essential food, water, medical care and emergency shelter there is going to be an enormous amount of repair and rehabilitation work required. CWS will use the money raised from the appeal to support communities over the coming months as they rebuild and re-establish their lives.

Donations to the CWS emergency appeal for the people of the Solomon Islands can be made on line at www.cws.org.nz or by ringing 0800 74 73 72

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