880 tribal families not yet 'socialized'

880 tribal families not yet 'socialized'

FAK-FAK, Irian Jaya: The government has yet to socialize 880 tribal families living in remote areas of Fak-Fak, a local government official said yesterday.

Head of the local office of social service affairs Stev Poceratu said that the semi-nomadic tribes people in isolated areas in the districts of Akimuga, East and West Mimika, Teluk Etna and Kokas still live in poverty.

"They have yet to learn about health and diseases like diarrhea, malaria and skin diseases are still rampant," he said as quoted by Antara.

He said the local administration hopes to reach the isolated people in order to resettle and socialize them.

In addition to running short of funds, he said the local administration was also facing difficulties trying to reach their villages. (rms)