The Cameroonian government has announced an increase in the relief package for flood victims in the Far North region, raising the amount from 350 million FCFA to 1.9 billion FCFA.
The decision to boost the aid package came after widespread public criticism that the initial sum was insufficient, especially when compared to government spending on other projects.
The floods, which occurred over a week ago in the Far North, have claimed more than a dozen lives and affected over 200,000 people. Initial reports highlighted severe destruction of houses and roads across the region.
In response to the disaster, the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, initially stated that 350 million FCFA would be allocated to help those affected. This prompted concerns among the public, as many interpreted it to mean that each of the 200,000 victims would receive only 1,750 FCFA.
With the recent increase in funds, the estimated amount for each person would now be 9,500 FCFA. However, the government has not yet provided details on how the money will be distributed.
On Wednesday, September 18, Minister Paul Atanga Nji led an inter-ministerial delegation to the Far North region after inspecting 50 trucks loaded with relief materials bound for the area.
The supplies include temporary shelters, mattresses, blankets, mosquito nets, foodstuffs, sanitary kits, and other essential items. “The distribution includes 22 trucks departing from Yaoundé, 10 trucks leaving Maroua for Yagoua, 12 trucks stationed in Yagoua, and the remaining trucks coming from Douala. The aid is valued at approximately 1.9 billion FCFA,” said Minister Atanga Nji, assuring the public that he would oversee proper distribution of the relief materials.
