PORT VILA, December 18, 2024 – Following two devastating earthquakes that struck near Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, children in the affected areas urgently require aid to secure essential shelter, food, healthcare, and access to education, according to Save the Children.
The initial quake, measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale, triggered landslides and inflicted significant damage on buildings, while a second earthquake of magnitude 5.5 occurred less than a day later, prompting the declaration of a state of emergency. Communication lines remain disrupted, leaving the extent of the destruction largely unknown, but there are confirmed reports of damage to crucial infrastructure, including schools and hospitals. Rescue operations are underway to assist those trapped in collapsed structures.
The Vanuatu Government has reported at least 14 fatalities, with preliminary estimates suggesting that approximately 80,000 individuals are impacted in the affected regions. Particularly alarming is the indication that around 23,000 people face urgent needs, placing children—who are often the most vulnerable in disasters—at significant risk.
Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago situated in the South Pacific, has a history of seismic activity and is frequently confronted with significant natural calamities. The nation is still in recovery mode from the recent impacts of Twin Category Four Tropical Cyclones Judy and Kevin, which affected over 80% of the island’s 320,000 residents back in March 2023.
Kim Koch, the Pacific Regional Director at Save the Children, emphasized the necessity of immediate relief efforts: “While we still don’t know the full extent of the devastation, it’s clear that this has been a major disaster, and children, who are already the most vulnerable in times of crisis, need immediate support to ensure they have access to shelter, food, water, and healthcare.”
Koch added, “It is essential to not only address the immediate needs of children and their families but also to consider long-term recovery strategies, such as rebuilding schools and ensuring sustained access to education, alongside mental health support for affected children.”
Save the Children is collaborating with the Vanuatu Government and international partners like Australia to facilitate recovery efforts, focusing on children’s rights, health, and safety. The organization has a strong history of providing emergency support within the Pacific region and is currently evaluating the earthquake’s impact in conjunction with the National Disaster Management Office’s response plans.
Through initiatives like the Australian Humanitarian Partnership’s Disaster READY Program, funded by the Australian Government, Save the Children is also working with local communities to foster disaster preparedness, which includes developing plans and conducting emergency drills.
This situation, while tragic, showcases the resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity. Efforts are already underway to support recovery and rebuilding, which can ultimately strengthen the community’s preparedness for future challenges.
Summary: Vanuatu’s children need immediate support following two earthquakes in Port Vila, which caused extensive damage and casualties. Save the Children is leading relief efforts, emphasizing the urgent need for shelter, food, healthcare, and educational access while also preparing long-term recovery strategies. The situation highlights the importance of community resilience and collaboration for recovery in the wake of natural disasters.