REPUBLICA DEMOCRATICA DE TIMOR-LESTE
GABINETE DO PRIMEIRO-MINISTRO
To: All Governmental, Non Governmental and International Organizations, United Nations and its Agencies
Abrupt changes of the climatic and abnormal weather conditions during the past two weeks have resulted in unseasonal rains and flooding in Covalima (Suai), Manufahi (Same) and Viqueque districts resulting in large scale damage to crops and other property of the population.
Farming cultivation, the dominant source of economic livelihood in the above districts has been severely damaged as a result of flood waters. The harvest of rice during the forthcoming season is likely to fall much below the previous production levels. The population in the affect areas will need food assistance.
An estimated 1.000 hectares of crops belonging to 1.500 owners has been severely damaged. About 125 houses have been destroyed during the floods.
There is a shortage of drinking water and basic life support commodities in the affected areas. The floods have also created potential health and hygiene problems in the affected areas, which may provoke an outbreak of water born disease.
Due to damaged roads and tracks, and consequent inability to travel, part of the community is unable to access the facilities of Primary Health Clinics and Assistance Centers, particularly in the remote areas.
To cope with the disaster, Government has mobilized resource at its disposal to alleviate the suffering of the people. But due to the limited resources, Government effort is inadequate to meet the demand and requires external assistance.
I would appeal to all Government, Non Government and International Organizations including United Nations and its agencies to assist in cash and kind to the relief effort.
Your contribution, however big or small will be much appreciated and go along way in alleviating the suffering of the people affected.
The Prime Minister of RD TL
Mari Alkatiri