SUMMARY
This policy directive encapsulates the Vanuatu Government’s key priority focus for the next 100 days. It contains five key pillars: governance, economic recovery and growth, recovery and infrastructure, education reforms, and foreign relations policy reforms. First and foremost, the public sector needs strengthening to enhance its efficiency and improve service delivery. In line with governance there will be further political reforms aimed at strengthening of the country’s governance structure. Continuous reforms are needed to bolster changes already introduced under 17A and 17B. In the economic sector, the Government seeks to address the impacts of natural disasters on the national economy, with a particular focus on revenue collection and growth. The government is also prioritizing the rebuilding of the CBD areas of Port Vila and to support the private sector recover from the aftermath of the December 17th 2024 earthquake. Education reforms are also critical in light of the ongoing issues related to the teaching service. Finally, foreign relations policy reforms are also included in the 100-day plan. The government is focused on aligning its development goals with international security cooperation, including initiatives such as the ‘Nakamal’ initiative. This will ensure that the country’s economic and aid development priorities are well-coordinated with security considerations. The Government’s mid to long-term plans are also being formulated - to be aligned with the People’s Plan 2030 and the SDGs.
PART 1: GOVERNANCE AND REFORM SECTOR ACTION PLAN OVERVIEW
The Government of Vanuatu is focused on strengthening governance, enhancing public sector efficiency, and improving service delivery. Efforts are underway to refine government structures, review key regulations, and optimize central agencies to ensure a more effective administration. Reforms in electoral processes and political oversight aim to enhance accountability, while measures to streamline public administration, including the management of government resources and public holidays, and seek to improve efficiency.
The establishment of a Health Services Commission, alongside reviews of international medical entitlements and government expenditures, reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and fiscal responsibility. Additionally, steps are being taken to align legal and regulatory frameworks with international standards, particularly in areas such as citizenship, maritime affairs, and environmental management. Through these initiatives, the government is laying the foundation for a more transparent, responsive, and accountable governance framework that supports long-term national development. Below is the matrix for the Governance and Reform action plan.
PART 2: ECONOMIC RECOVERY & GROWTH SECTOR ACTION PLAN OVERVIEW
The Economic Recovery & Growth Action Plan focuses on strategic initiatives to support Vanuatu’s economic recovery and long-term growth. The Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MFEM) will review and the Price Control Act to encourage fair competition and ensure consumer protection, while also exploring new revenue sources to strengthen government finances. The Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MTC) will implement targeted marketing campaigns with trade partners and international airlines to raise awareness of Vanuatu as a tourism destination, aiming to increase visitor arrivals and stimulate economic activity. The COM 8 of 2024 stimulus package will be rolled out to support short-term recovery, with a cash transfer system to assist affected communities, subject to COM approval. These efforts are designed to create a more resilient and balanced economic environment, fostering sustainable growth for the future.
PART 3: RECOVERY SECTOR PLAN OVERVIEW
The Post-Disaster Infrastructure Recovery initiative aims to enhance public safety, optimize government office locations, and ensure continuity of essential services. A key action is the demolition of condemned buildings, which involves assessing structural risks, developing a demolition plan with safety protocols, hiring certified contractors, and conducting post-demolition inspections. This will create safer urban spaces, eliminate hazardous structures, and boost community morale by fostering a secure environment.
Additionally, the plan includes identifying and securing state-owned land in collaboration with VNPF to strategically relocate government offices, improving accessibility and operational efficiency. To address immediate space constraints, the convention center will be repurposed as temporary office space. This involves reviewing its management contract, planning logistics for office relocations, and establishing a management team to oversee operations. These efforts will ensure cost savings on rentals, provide immediate office solutions, and maintain uninterrupted government services for displaced staff.
In response to urgent recovery needs, a comprehensive road assessment and rehabilitation plan is also being implemented, prioritizing key routes based on economic and community impact. Immediate repairs, drainage improvements, and bypass construction will restore connectivity and mitigate further deterioration. Infrastructure upgrades, including the Efate Ring Road and Santo East Coast Road, will strengthen transportation networks. Additionally, drainage and sewage system enhancements in Port Vila will improve sanitation and resilience against flooding.
Land acquisitions for critical projects, including the Eratap Cemetery, Lakatoro Subdivision, Tanna Whitegrass Airport, and Norsup Airport, are being finalized to support urban expansion, aviation services, and business activity. These initiatives collectively reflect the government’s commitment to sustainable development, resilience, and efficient public service delivery.
PART 4: EDUCATION & TEACHING SERVICES COMMISSION REFORM
The Government of Vanuatu is committed to strengthening the education sector through governance reforms, improved resource management, and long-term sustainability measures. In response to recent Vanuatu Teachers Union strikes, a review of the Teaching Services Commission is underway to enhance efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to teacher concerns. The introduction of a teacher licensing system aims to standardize qualifications and streamline recruitment, ensuring a more effective workforce. A financial audit will improve transparency in education funding, while a review of scholarship programs seeks to align them with national human resource needs. Efforts to secure funding for school repairs and expand online learning will support education continuity, particularly in times of disruption. Addressing teacher shortages through collaboration with development partners remains a priority, contributing to a more stable and well-supported teaching environment. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to fostering a resilient and high-quality education system.
PART 5: FOREIGN RELATIONS & POLICY SECTOR PLAN
The Foreign Relations & Policy Reform aims to strengthen Vanuatu’s global standing by fostering strategic diplomatic partnerships, enhancing economic cooperation, and safeguarding national sovereignty. Key initiatives include reinforcing regional and international alliances, advocating for climate change action, and securing foreign investment that aligns with national development goals. The reform also focuses on improving trade agreements, strengthening diplomatic missions, and ensuring that foreign policies reflect Vanuatu’s cultural and economic interests. Additionally, measures will be taken to regulate foreign influence in critical sectors and prioritize diplomatic engagement that benefits local communities. Through these efforts, Vanuatu seeks to position itself as a resilient, influential, and self-reliant nation in global affairs while promoting peace, sustainable development, and economic growth
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