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What happened, where and when?
On 24 May 2024, a massive landslide engulfed villages in Yambali Ward, Maip Mulitaka Local Level Government of Lagaip-Porgera District, Enga Province, Papua New Guinea. The landslide caused extensive damage to lives, homes, and livelihoods. The extent of the destruction has left an estimated 1,680 individuals displaced, with approximately 3,979 individuals affected and at risk of displacement. Furthermore, 9,952 individuals are estimated to be directly impacted by the landslide. Immediate emergency response and long-term recovery plans are crucial to address the needs of these affected populations and mitigate future risks and vulnerabilities. The landslide has not only devastated Yambali Ward but also caused significant instability in the surrounding area. The soil remains highly unstable, with visible cracks indicating imminent threats to lives and properties. Ongoing geo-seismic activities in the vicinity exacerbate the risk, as the land continues to shift. The landslide covered two creeks with debris and boulders, blocking waterways and increasing the likelihood of further slides. The blockage of these creeks poses a critical risk of flooding, which could trigger additional landslides, endangering the already vulnerable community. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Enga Provincial Disaster Response Team and Site Management team, conducted a Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) assessment across all affected wards (Yambali, Pokolip, Kuandak, and Yuyango) between June and July 2024. This assessment was carried out by enumerators through field observations, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with both affected populations and local authorities. Critical sectoral needs were identified. The assessment also highlighted ongoing risks of displacement in high-risk areas prone to further landslides and environmental hazards. Access, due to land instability and security issues, has resulted in the affected population remaining at the Mulitaka Care Centre (CC) and host communities longer than originally anticipated. The restricted access has remained a challenge for some time, with government agencies hampered in their efforts to build an alternate access route due to soil erosion and instability. Compounding these access issues are checkpoints and clashes en route to and from the Mulitaka CC, stemming from the withdrawal of security support. Together, these factors have greatly influenced the Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society (PNGRCS) ability to conduct assessments and address gaps where needs are not being met by other humanitarian agencies supporting the affected population. The affected area is also known to be a high-security zone due to continuous tribal clashes. Additionally, Porgera District, which has been indirectly affected by the Enga landslide, is experiencing escalating clashes and security concerns, prompting the government to declare a State of Emergency in Enga Province on 22 September 2024 for two months. At this stage, the response is more in a recovery phase than an immediate emergency response due to the complex nature of the situation. The purpose of this update is to provide an overview of the current status of the emergency response and outline the key factors contributing to delays in implementation. While significant progress has been made in several areas, ongoing tribal clashes, resettlement reallocations, and the data verification process for vulnerable individuals have impacted the timelines.