Jakarta – Since February, about 15,000 people in Papua have been affected by famine, Amuma district in Yahukimo regency being the most affected area, with 23 deaths by October.
Famine is a recurring event in Papua. Extreme weather, unsustainable agricultural techniques and a fragile health system are believed to be the factors behind the famines, according to Mulyadi, an agriculture observer from the University of Papua in Manokwari, West Papua.
To cope with this disaster, the Coordinating Human Development and Culture Ministry, in collaboration with Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), will introduce superior tuber varieties to Papua.
The superior tuber is a variety that is resistant to extreme weather. Additionally, appropriate agricultural technology will also be introduced.
"The introduction of weather-resistant varieties is being carried out in areas where crops have been unproductive due to extreme weather changes," said Coordinating Human Development and Culture Minister Muhadjir Effendy.
Through these efforts, the government hopes that the recurring problem of famine will soon come to an end.
As a short-term solution, the government has distributed staple items to several affected districts. Food warehouses will also be constructed in those areas.
The coordinating minister, along with the social affairs and agriculture ministers, will soon visit Papua.
Effendy added that the distribution of food aid to Yahukimo regency in Papua Highlands is proceeding well.
"The aid distribution is going well, no obstacles so far. Not only this time, but when there was a food shortage in Agandugume, Lambewi and Konawe, it also went smoothly," he said.