Relief supplies for the drought affected parts of the Papua New Guinea highlands have now reached distribution points in the worst affected areas.
Papua New Guinea's busy Highlands Highway. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
The Post Courier reports the Prime Minister Peter O'Neill announcing large quantities of rice and canned tuna have now reached several parts of the highlands.
Mr O'Neill says relief supplies will continue until current climate issues are resolved.
He says in PNG, traditionally, the wantok system has ensured communities look after other communities in times of need.
Mr O'Neill says it is only in circumstances like now, with drought made worse by climate change, that the Government is stepping in to provide immediate relief.
He says the response has been carefully managed to ensure relief reaches the families and communities are in need.
The Prime Minister says so far the Government has allocated US$8.7 million dollars in relief aid.