The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) has once again risen to the occasion to offer relief to the flood affected victims in Fiji.
Until last week, the western parts of Fiji continued to experience deluge caused by heavy rains, causing widespread destruction to property, with at least seven persons declared dead.
FIANZ relief coordinator Faiyaz Khan is spearheading the campaign to collect money for the flood victims in his homeland.
“Our anxiety is to ensure that essential items reach the right people on time. Fiji Muslim League president Hafeez Khan has informed us that food, clothing, books and stationery for schoolchildren are immediately required. But we have decided to send cash,” he told Indian Newslink.
His comments came amidst complaints from some quarters in Fiji that supplies being sent to Fiji by some organisations were unnecessary items.
“We do not require tarpaulins and tents. What we need is food, clothing and supplies for schoolchildren,” a source told this newspaper.
FIANZ president Dr Anwar Ghani appealed to the members of the Muslim community in New Zealand to donate money at Mosques and Islamic Centres, especially when they perform their prayers.
“Donations can also made to the ‘FIANZ Appeal Account’ at the Bank of New Zealand (Account Number 0200-500-0737236-06). Regional associations, trusts and individual donors must mention that the amount is for ‘Fiji Food Relief’ while depositing monies into the account,” he said.
Further details can be obtained from Faiyaz Khan on 021-2609104.
Miserable plight
The plight of the poor and the needy affected by the devastating floods in Fiji has moved a number of social and community organisations, businesses and ordinary people in New Zealand and their demonstration of solidarity and philanthropy has begun to pay dividends.
While the New Zealand government has risen above the political friction with the interim government headed by commodore Frank Bainimarama to offer cash and other supplies, a number of commercial and not-for-profit organisations have also stepped up their efforts.
Foreign minister Murray McCully announced the government’s contribution of $350,000 through aid agencies.
On a related note, a number of businesses and individuals have also been mobilising finances and supplies to those suffering in Fiji following the flash floods last month, in response to the officials of the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund.
Vegetables dispatched
Sona Sansaar directors Harish and Jyoti Lodhia took the initiative of collecting potatoes and onions, which were among the most important and immediate items required by the flood victims.
They were able to fill a 20-ton container in record time.
“We are grateful to a number of people who instantly offered help. We are in particular grateful to the Indian community in Pukekohe for their support and assistance. Among them were Bhiku Jivan, Bhuladas Bhakta, Dhiru Makan, Hira Bhana, Manga Jivan and Nathu Jivan, who donated large quantities of freshly produced potatoes and onions,” Mr Lodhia said.
He said local transporter Powells Transport, exporter Fusion Marketing Limited, shipper Neptune Pacific Shipping and Fiji importer Hari Dayal and Sons were also helpful in reaching the shipment on time to the destinations.
“Fiji has been a friend and business partner of the New Zealand Indian community since long and we hope that though small, the container sent would help the flood victims in the Western Parts of Fiji,” Mr Lodhia said.
