H.S.H Prince Albert ll of Monaco visits Sirombu

Sunday 3rd of December was the official inauguration of the Monaco Complex in Sirombu Village by H.S.H Prince Albert ll of Monaco in a vibrant ceremony attended by the delegation of the Monaco Asian Society, United In Diversity & Partners, Government Officials, the residents of Sirombu and the Zero to One Foundation.

Sirombu Village was one of the hardest hit villages on Nias Island by the 2004 Asian Tsunami, washing away homes, livelihoods and community infrastructure. Not yet able to recover from the first disaster Nias Island was again hit by another tragedy with the March 28th Earthquake (8.7 on the Richter Scale) causing further destruction to Sirombu and its neighbouring villages. This also further dampening the hopes of its residents of a fast recovery.

In a joint collaboration between the Monaco Asian Society (funding partner), United In Diversity (facilitator / organising partner) and the Zero to One Foundation (impelmenting / construction partner) the organization unified to carry out a rapid response reconstruction project to assist the victims of Sirombu Village by rebuilding their community, ensuring them a safe and comfortable village to raise their families and develop their livelihoods.

In the face of adversity and extreme working conditions the organization succeeded in its objectives, resulting in 239 homes rebuilt, stronger, safer and better than before, water & electrical systems installed, and also a school to ensure the future of village through the education of the next generation of bright, talented children of Sirombu.

Festivities kicked off when H.S.H Prince Albert ll of Monaco arrived through bumpy seas to the port of Sirombu at 10am on the rainy Sunday morning. Through the use of  local traditional style song and dance the peoples of Sirmobu told of their tragic story and how this sad tale resulted in hope and happiness with the rebuilding of their community.  After speeches and a traditional meal the Sirombu Village plaque was signed by the Prince, officially inaugurating Sirombu. This was followed by a village tour with the Prince visiting resident’s homes. The community was full of life as the festivities flowed into the afternoon as families gathered, children played and the singing and dancing continued.

Needless to say the residents of Sirombu were ecstatic and happy with the days events, allowing them a time of joy as well as giving them the opportunity to show their appreciation to Prince Albert and Monaco Asian Society, for their generosity in funding the project, making the Monaco Complex in Sirombu possible. This project was a great success as its fulfilled its objectives and the community is truly united and getting back to their traditional way of life.