The Asian Development Bank has given $6million in aid to Tonga to help the country recover from the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Gita.
ADB’s Pacific Department Director General, Carmela Locsin says Cyclone Gita has destroyed the livelihoods and infrastructure as well as provide emergency relief is the first step towards essential services.
Carmela Locsin says this is the first time ADB has provided post-disaster funds under such a contingent facility, allowing the government to respond quickly to emerging needs.
The ADB also stands ready to provide further assistance for rehabilitation following the cyclone.
Meanwhile, relief packs with basic food rations and supplies were flown to Tonga this morning by Digicel.
Digicel Pacific Chief Executive, Colin Stone says family size tents, tarpaulins, hardware materials, first aid kits and cartons of Fiji Water were included.
Stone says technical equipment were also loaded for repairs of the network.
Tongan’s Acting Minister for Finance National Planning Poasi Tei says Cyclone Gita was probably the most powerful cyclone to pass near Tonga in 60 years.
