This report presents the results of a series of assessments undertaken by Care International in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in three drought-affected provinces between September and October 2015 in order to better understand the needs and capabilities of affected communities. In parallel to the needs assessments, CARE PNG did a rapid gender analysis on the differing impact of the drought on women, men, girls and boys. The key findings included in this report cover the next areas: food security, WASH, livelihoods, health, coping strategies and recovery challenges.
PNG is currently experiencing the effects of an El Niño event, which includes warmer weather and significantly reduced rainfall. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Papua New Guinea and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, this dry hot spell, which began in May 2015, will continue into early 2016.
