Speech

Tsunami SOAG Signing Ceremony

William M. Frej, USAID Mission Director

Banda Aceh | Thursday, July 07, 2005

Thank you Mr. President, Mr. Kuntoro and distinguished guests. Ambassador Pascoe and I are proud to stand here today with Indonesia as the country moves forward in rebuilding and improving the region devastated by the December 26 earthquake and tsunami.

The scale of destruction is beyond what anyone had anticipated and the reconstruction process, led by BRR, will be one of the most important recovery programs undertaken by any country at any time in recent history. According to a recent report, more than one third of the 173,000 hectares of settlements hit by the tsunami were destroyed. More than 1,525km of roads were either completely or partially ruined — enough to build a road from London to Rome. Over 2,000 bridges were washed away. And most tragically, more than 135,000 Indonesians were killed and thousands more missing, injured and left homeless.

It is no surprise that the primary efforts of the Indonesian government and international community focused almost completely on humanitarian relief efforts following the first 3-4 months of the disaster. But these efforts have produced extraordinary results. There have been no major outbreaks of disease nor are people dying due to starvation or exposure.

And make no mistake, reconstruction efforts are already underway. One only need visit the region to see the resolve and strength of the Indonesian people working tirelessly to regain hope and rebuild their lives and communities.

Six months later we are here to advance the reconstruction process by providing $400 million from the American people that will not only meet current reconstruction needs in Aceh, but will contribute to building a brighter and more prosperous future throughout Indonesia.

Through USAID, a significant portion of this assistance, nearly $250 million will fund the reconstruction of the Banda Aceh-Meulaboh Road. In August, we will break ground for the first phase of the road with Indonesian contractors.

The remaining funds will help people move back to their homes; reinvigorate communities through microcredit and livelihood assistance; and assist local governments to plan, implement and manage reconstruction activities and deliver high quality basic services.

The international and Indonesian business community will continue to play a substantial role in the reconstruction process. USAID will continue to actively develop partnerships with the private sector to leverage recourses and maximize impact. As an example, USAID has recently partnered with the Mars Corporation to provide 60,000 Indonesians key physical improvements within their communities. USAID is also in discussions with a number of other private corporations regarding their interest in helping Indonesia begin the rebuilding process.

Mr. President, the Government of Indonesia has done an impressive job in establishing the BRR, implementing the blueprint for reconstruction, and taking significant steps towards ensuring assistance resources are used in a transparent and accountable manner. I look forward to continuing our important work together in making the reconstruction process a success for all of Indonesia. Thank you.