The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has given $6 million to Tonga for early recovery activities following the destruction caused by Tropical Cyclone Gita last week.

“This is the first time ADB has provided post-disaster funds under such a contingent facility, allowing government to respond quickly to emerging needs. As well as this immediate financing, ADB stands ready to provide further assistance for Tonga to rebuild following the cyclone,” said Carmela Locsin, Director General of ADB’s Pacific Department.

“Cyclone Gita has destroyed livelihoods and infrastructure, and providing emergency relief is the first step towards restoring essential services.”

The funds will come out of the ADB’s Pacific Disaster Resilience Program that was established in December 2017 to help strengthen Tonga, Samoa and Tuvalu’s resilience to disasters.

Acting Minister for Finance and National Planning, Hon Poasi Tei said the Tongan government is thankful for the ADB’s quick support to help with immediate response and recovery effects in a timely and effective manner.

“Gita, a category 4 cyclone, was probably the most powerful cyclone to pass near Tonga in 60 years, with sustained winds of up to 145 miles per hour.”

He said the early estimates of the impact “indicate that at least 1,100 houses have been damaged with 120 destroyed. Rehabilitation costs for electricity, water and sanitation, schools, and other sectors are likely to be very significant.”

The Pacific Disaster Resilience Program fills a finance gap which many Pacific countries experience after being hit hard by disasters. It is a quick and predictable source of obtaining finance for early response, recovery, and reconstruction activities. The program also supports priority actions in disaster risk management in participating countries.