Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the Pacific. The country sits along major tectonic plate boundaries within the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and flooding. With rugged mountains, scattered islands and many remote communities, disasters can quickly disrupt lives and infrastructure. Having disaster preparedness plans in place is therefore essential to reduce risks and ensure communities know how to respond when emergencies occur.

According to the International Organization for Migration and partners working with provincial authorities in PNG, community-based disaster preparedness plans have already been developed in several areas. Communities in Morobe Province, such as Zumara and villages in Western Province, including Drimdamasuk, Atkamba and Senamrae, have launched Community-Based Disaster Risk Management plans with support from provincial disaster centres. These plans involve local leaders, women, youth and vulnerable groups in identifying hazards and preparing evacuation and response strategies. Officials say strengthening preparedness at the community level can help save lives and minimise disaster losses. 

Across the country, disaster management is supported by Provincial Disaster Committees established under the National Disaster Management Act. These committees work with provincial administrations, police, health and works departments to assess hazards, prepare contingency plans and train emergency responders. Provinces such as Morobe, Western and Hela have taken steps to develop disaster preparedness initiatives through community-based planning and coordination with national agencies. 

Preparedness planning is important because disasters often strike with little warning. Evacuation procedures, early warning systems and trained responders allow communities to act quickly. Disaster planning also helps governments protect critical infrastructure, reduce economic losses and coordinate relief operations more efficiently.

Ultimately, disaster preparedness is not only the responsibility of government agencies. Schools, churches and community groups all play a role in ensuring people understand the risks around them and know what actions to take. By planning and strengthening local capacity, PNG can better protect lives, livelihoods and development gains when disasters occur. 

With thousands of communities spread across rugged terrain and remote islands, does Papua New Guinea currently have the capacity to respond effectively when disaster strikes?