Children in Vanuatu are in urgent need of assistance following two devastating earthquakes that struck the capital, Port Vila, causing significant destruction. According to Save the Children, the aftermath of the quakes has left many families without adequate shelter, food, healthcare, and access to education.
A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit near Port Vila, leading to landslides and severe damage to buildings. This was closely followed by a second earthquake measuring 5.5 magnitude, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency. With communication networks heavily disrupted, the full scope of the disaster remains uncertain, although it is evident that schools and hospitals have been affected, and rescue efforts are ongoing for individuals trapped under rubble.
The Vanuatu Government has reported at least 14 confirmed fatalities, with early assessments suggesting that approximately 80,000 individuals are living within the impacted areas. Among them, about 23,000 people, particularly children, are currently in desperate need of support, marking a critical situation given that children are often the most vulnerable during crises.
Historically, Vanuatu is prone to seismic activity and has recently been recovering from the effects of two Category Four tropical cyclones that occurred in March 2023, affecting over 80% of the nation’s population.
Kim Koch, the Pacific Regional Director for Save the Children, emphasized the urgent need for immediate assistance while also highlighting the importance of planning for long-term recovery. This includes efforts to rebuild schools, ensure educational access, and provide mental health support to children, which are all vital components of the recovery process.
Save the Children has a significant history of responding to emergencies in the Pacific region and is actively collaborating with the Vanuatu Government to assess the earthquake’s impact. They are prepared to support local communities in recovery efforts, prioritizing the rights, health, and safety of children in the response initiative.
In addition, through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership’s Disaster READY Program, Save the Children is working to enhance community preparedness for future emergencies, ensuring that local populations have the tools and plans in place to face their challenges head-on.
This situation sheds light on the resilience of the people of Vanuatu and the importance of global support in times of crisis. By providing immediate and long-term assistance, we can help these communities rebuild and strengthen their capacity to weather future challenges.