MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Port Vila, Vanuatu — The Government of Vanuatu is expanding its national program to strengthen community resilience by constructing multi-purpose emergency shelters across the country. These facilities are designed to provide safe spaces during cyclones, flooding, and other natural disasters, while also serving as community hubs for training, business development, and public meetings.

Expansions Across Provinces

In Port Vila, six shelters are planned under the program. Construction is already underway for three shelters located in Korman, Freshwater, and Seaside. Land is also being secured in Ohlen and Nambatri for additional sites. Meanwhile, preparations are progressing for two new shelters in Luganville to enhance disaster preparedness in Sanma Province.

The program, launched last year with groundbreaking ceremonies in Port Vila, is set to expand further in 2025 to Tanna, Malekula, and Santo.

• On Malekula, North and Central Area Councils have been identified, with further negotiations ongoing.
• On Santo, East and South Area Councils have been identified, and discussions continue for additional land.
• On Pentecost, the Central Area Council has been confirmed, while negotiations are ongoing with other councils.

The Council of Ministers (COM) has also endorsed the construction of four evacuation centres on Tanna Island, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to decentralisation, equity, and safety in disaster-prone areas.

Commitment to Safety and Resilience

“These shelters are more than just emergency buildings,” said the Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Andrew Solomon Napuat. “They represent our government’s commitment to protect lives, strengthen rural and urban resilience, and ensure equal access to safe spaces for all Ni-Vanuatu — no matter where they live.”

Each shelter will meet national safety and accessibility standards, equipped with:

• 💧 Water tanks
• ☀️ Solar power
• 🚻 Sanitation facilities
• 📦 Secure storage for emergency supplies

By placing management under Area Councils, the Government is empowering local communities to take greater responsibility in times of crisis.

Looking Ahead

The program will continue to expand to other populated islands where schools and public facilities are often disrupted after disasters due to the lack of dedicated shelters. This initiative forms a cornerstone of Vanuatu’s long-term strategy to strengthen resilience, equity, and self-reliance across both urban and rural communities.

The Government reaffirms that the safety and preparedness of all Ni-Vanuatu families remain a top national priority.