LILIGEN VITI, an elderly resident of Baini Village, North New Georgia, Western Province, has been left devastated after a recent flood destroyed her banana and taro garden for the second time in less than a year.
The flood, which struck more than week for over two days, wiped out the only source of food that sustains her in her old age.
At 72 years old, Mrs Viti relies solely on her garden to provide her daily sustenance. The loss of her crops left her without any means to secure food, leaving her in a dire strait.
“I feel so sad and helpless,” Mrs Viti said with tears in her eyes.
“This garden was all I had to keep me going. Now, with everything destroyed, I don’t know where I will find food.”
This is the second time that Mrs Viti’s garden was destroyed by flood. The first incident occurred earlier this year, causing her to replant and start over again.
Despite her efforts to rebuild, the recent flood destroyed all her hard work, leaving her in a vulnerable situation once again.
Mrs Viti is now appealing to the responsible authorities for assistance during this difficult time. She is calling on local government officials and disaster relief agencies to provide the support she desperately needs to recover from this disaster.
“I hope someone will hear my plea and come to help me,” she said. “I am too old to start again on my own. Please, I need help to survive.”
The community of Baini Village is also urging authorities to take action to support Mrs Viti and others who have been affected by the flooding.
With the increasing frequency of natural disasters, many are concerned about the long-term impact on vulnerable residents like Mrs Viti.
As the region continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, there is a growing need for measures to protect communities from future disasters and to provide timely assistance to those in need.
Mrs Viti remains hopeful that help will come soon but for now, she faces an uncertain future as she waits for support to rebuild her life.
By Lawrence Rence
Gerasi CHS Principal
