MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

03 August 2026 | Port Vila| A high-level World Bank delegation has commended the Government of Vanuatu for its strong leadership and long-term vision in advancing sustainable urban development following a two-day mission from 28–29 July 2026. The mission reviewed key initiatives being implemented under the Vanuatu Affordable and Resilient Settlements (VARS) Project and the Government's broader urban development agenda.

 

Led by Mr Han Fraeters, World Bank Division Director for Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, the delegation met with Government Ministers and senior officials to assess progress on strategic projects designed to strengthen land administration, improve settlement planning, and promote resilient urban growth. The delegation also visited several major project sites, including the Elol Etas pilot subdivision, the Settlement Upgrading Programme, and the Port Vila Central Business District (CBD) Redevelopment Programme.

 

During the mission, the delegation was briefed on the Government's long-term vision to address rapid urbanisation through planned land development, stronger land administration, modern urban planning and improved public infrastructure. Discussions also highlighted the importance of collaboration with customary landowners, communities and government agencies to deliver sustainable development outcomes for current and future generations.

 

The delegation observed the Elol Etas pilot subdivision, which has been developed as a model for providing planned, serviced and resilient residential land for Ni-Vanuatu families, including demonstration low-cost housing. Updates were also provided on the Settlement Upgrading Programme, which is improving infrastructure, accessibility and resilience within established informal settlements while creating practical models for future settlement developments across the country.

 

The mission concluded with a briefing on the Port Vila CBD Redevelopment Programme, where the delegation received an overview of the Government's long-term strategy to rebuild the capital's commercial centre following the December 2024 earthquake. The redevelopment programme is expected to strengthen economic recovery, improve public infrastructure, enhance resilience and reinforce Port Vila's role as Vanuatu's principal commercial and tourism hub.

 

The World Bank recognised the Government's commitment to translating its long-term vision into practical development initiatives that support sustainable communities, strengthen institutions and improve economic opportunities. The delegation reaffirmed the World Bank's continued partnership with the Government of Vanuatu in supporting resilient infrastructure, improved urban planning and affordable settlements that will benefit communities across the country.