SUNDAY 04th April, 2025 – The Government has announced that no further public funds will be spent on patching roads within the Central Business District (CBD) until major rehabilitation works begin within the next three months. This decision comes as part of a larger infrastructure overhaul, supported by a generous grant of approximately VT 2 billion from the Government of the People’s Republic of China

    The Ministry of Public Utilities (MIPU) is currently finalizing designs for this extensive road rehabilitation project. Once completed, MIPU will officially announce the schedule and scope of the works.  The CBD Road upgrades will include improved drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, road markings, and signage—essential components of a long-overdue transformation for the nation’s capital.

    This announcement comes at a critical time, as demolition works progress and Port Vila undergoes a broader revitalization. With years of public frustration over deteriorating road conditions, particularly in the Port Vila area, the Government has acknowledged that repeated patching is no longer viable

    The Government has been under some pressure from road users complaining about the current road conditions in and around the Port Vila areas.   The life span of all sealed roads in Port Vila is well overdue by about 15 years. A typical Double Bituminous Surface Treatment (DBST) lasts 7 years, or up to 10 years if well maintained. Beyond that, patching is ineffective. Full rehabilitation is the only sustainable solution, albeit costly.

    Resealing 1km of expired tar-sealed road costs over VT 70 million, while full rehabilitation can exceed VT 150 million per km. With Port Vila comprising 80km of sealed roads and 100km of unsealed roads, the cost of fully restoring all roads is significant.

    Prime Minister Jotham Napat emphasized the need for a long-term approach -
    “I’ve spoken with the Minister for Public Utilities. We’ve done countless patching works over the years, spending large sums of money to repeat the same temporary fixes. That’s no longer acceptable. We must be smarter with our resource allocation.”  He added, “We understand the frustration of road users. The current weather conditions have worsened road conditions, but we urge the public to be patient. We are committed to fixing the roads in our CBD, and now is the right time.”

    In addition to funds being provided by China, Papua New Guinea have also contributed Vt300 million to develop Kumul Highway with Australia through Vanuatu Australia Infrastructure for Development (VAI4D) VT 500 million. All of these funds are being channeled into improving the road conditions of Port Vila as the seat of Vanuatu’s Capital; and rightly deserves a complete makeover.

    The following roads are being targeted by the China and PNG funding: CBD, Prime Minister’s vicinity areas, Joint Court, Independence Park and Au Bon Marche Nambatu areas including new bypass access roads as Government plan to reduce traffic congestions experienced in Port Vila.

    The outskirts of Port Vila, including Freshwota, Malapoa and Nambatri areas are being funded by the national government through the Ministry of Public Utilities but prioritized due to funding availability.

    PORT VILA, Thursday 25th March, 2025 – The Office of the Citizenship Commission has moved swiftly to address gaps within its Citizenship by Investment Program, by tightening loopholes that may have been the likely source of corruption and abuse by individuals over the years – seriously undermining the government’s citizenship programs.

    The new Citizenship Commission under its new Chairman Charles Maniel, has written to all designated agents – advising them of new invoicing processes, integrated directly with the Ministry of Finance and the treasury department – enabling a streamlined invoicing process where all application fees are directly deposited into the government treasury.

    The new process, however obvious it may seem, was never corrected by former leaders and stewards of the program. The new process significantly reduces chances for abuse – where corrupt elements within the system easily short-changed the national government – seriously tarnishing the reputation of the program.

    Chairman of the Citizenship Commission, Mr. Maniel, advises that the new payment process takes effect immediately and represents a significant enhancement to operational procedures – strengthening the financial governance of the program.

    The key features of the new integrated payment system include:

    • Automated invoicing
    • Standardised payment; and
    • Enhanced compliance

    Implementation of the new system fulfils the Commission’s obligation to maintain the integrity of Vanuatu’s citizenship programs.

    “It also aligns our financial procedures with international best practices, and strengthens the reputation of the program,” says Mr. Maniel in his letter issued today.

    Prime Minister Jotham Napat has congratulated the new Chairman for acting swiftly and urges all agents to comply forthwith.

    In keeping with its 100-days plan, the Vanuatu Government is proud to announce significant investments in the rehabilitation and upgrading of the Efate Ring Road and Santo East Coast Road. These critical infrastructure projects are being funded fully from the national budget, and reaffirms the government’s commitment to improving transportation networks, enhancing economic opportunities, and supporting community development.

    Santo East Coast Road

    Through the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU), the Government signed the first contract with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to undertake the Santo East Coast Road Rehabilitation. This significant infrastructure investment is valued at 839,443,368 Vatu and aims to improve road safety, durability, and accessibility for all road users.

    The Santo East Coast Road is a critical transportation route that supports local communities, businesses, and economic activities, including agriculture and tourism. This rehabilitation project will focus on enhancing key sections of the road through a range of essential interventions, including:

    • Clearing of Roadside Drains – Improving drainage to prevent flooding and road damage
    • Cutting of Roadside Trees – Enhancing visibility and road safety
    • Double Chip Seal & Single Chip Seal – Strengthening Road surfaces for durability
    • Speed Humps Construction – Enhancing traffic control and pedestrian safety
    • Guard Rails Installation – Providing additional roadside protection
    • Road Signs & Pavement Markings – Ensuring proper guidance and road safety compliance

     The Efate Ring Road

    The Government through MIPU also signed a contract with Pierre Brunet Enterprise Generale to undertake the Efate Ring Road Rehabilitation. This significant infrastructure investment is valued at 963,700,000 Vatu – also fully funded by the Government. 

    Efate Ring Road is a vital transportation link connecting communities, businesses, and key economic sectors. This project will focus on rehabilitating critical sections of the road through essential interventions, including:

    • Double Chip Seal – Enhancing durability for high-traffic areas
    • Single Chip Seal – Improving surface quality and resilience
    • Pavement Markings – Strengthening road safety and visibility

    Government Commitment to Infrastructure Development

    Both projects are a testament to the Vanuatu Government’s commitment to enhancing national infrastructure, improving road safety, and supporting sustainable economic growth. By funding these initiatives, the government is ensuring that both roads remain reliable and safe for local communities, businesses, and visitors as well as key transport corridors for agriculture, trade, and rural access, aimed at enhancing resilience and efficiency.

    The projects are aligned with the Government’s broader vision of sustainable development and climate resilience, ensuring that road improvements are built to withstand environmental challenges while benefiting future generations.

    Minister of Infrastructure and Utilities, Hon. Xavier Emmanuel Harry stated: “Infrastructure development is a cornerstone of Vanuatu’s economic growth and social progress. By investing in our road networks, we are not only improving mobility but also strengthening access to essential services, markets, and tourism opportunities.”

    He says that as Minister responsible for all road networks he appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this critical phase of development.

    Construction works are set to commence in April 2025 for both roads with minimal disruption to communities, and will take one year to complete. The expected completion date is April 2026.

    FRIDAY 21st March 2025 – The Office of the Prime Minister notes the heightened interest of everyone concerned with the outstanding claims of teachers, which has been outstanding for 18 years under the watchful eyes of a few governments over the years.

    We wish to reassure that the Government is fully committed to resolving this matter and calls on all parties concerned, including the Teaching Services Commission to work through the claims and ensure all legitimate claims are sorted once and for all.

    The Office of the Prime Minister notes also the exchanges taking place on various social media platforms over this issue.

    “There is no need for that. All leaders both past and present were well aware of this issue and everyone involved contributed in some way or another to drag the matter thus far.

    “Therefore, no amount of outburst on social media will solve the outstanding claims. Allow the Government and the Ministry of Education to sort this out.

    “There is no need for rush - disparaging comments on social media. There is no such thing as ‘piecemeal diversion’ of the issues at hand,” says Prime Minister Jotham Napat.

    The Ministry of Education has already issued a separate statement highlighting payments that have already been released into teachers’ accounts in recent months. As such, all over-generalizations are uncalled for.

    “The Government will not sidetrack. We will address the issue systematically within the confines of the limited resources the country now has as it tries to manage and manoeuvre itself financially and economically following the disastrous earthquake that has seriously affected our cashflow and our economy since 17th December last year,” says Prime Minister Napat.

    WEDNESDAY March 19th, 2025 – The Government of Vanuatu firmly reaffirms its commitment to international maritime regulations and rejects any allegations that its flag is being used as a safe haven for Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.

    A recent report has claimed that fishing vessels operating under the Vanuatu flag have engaged in illegal activities in Argentina’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

    These allegations fail to recognize the strong regulatory measures and enforcement actions that Vanuatu has already implemented. As a responsible Flag State, Vanuatu maintains strict oversight of its flagged vessels and takes swift action against any non-compliance with international fisheries laws.

    Actions Taken by Vanuatu Authorities

    Upon learning of the incidents, the Vanuatu International Shipping Registry (VISR) immediately launched investigations into the vessels in question. The findings resulted in:

    • Fines being imposed on vessels that breached regulations in foreign waters.
    • Warnings being issued to certain operators, with clear instructions to adhere to strict compliance measures.
    • The removal of non-compliant vessels from the Vanuatu registry, ensuring that only law-abiding operators continue to fly our flag.

    These actions demonstrate Vanuatu’s zero-tolerance policy towards IUU fishing. No vessel, regardless of ownership, will be permitted to operate under the Vanuatu flag if found in violation of international maritime laws.

    Strengthening Vanuatu’s Regulatory Framework

    To further enhance its oversight, Vanuatu has implemented additional compliance measures, including:

    • Mandatory disclosure of Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs): All vessels seeking registration under the Vanuatu flag must fully disclose their ownership details.
    • Daily Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) and Transshipment Reporting: Effective April 1, 2025, all fishing vessels under the Vanuatu flag must report their VMS and transshipment activities daily to VISR.
    • Strict enforcement of international fisheries regulations: Any vessel that fails to comply with reporting requirements or is involved in illegal activities will be immediately deregistered.

    Vanuatu’s ongoing collaboration with regional and international partners ensures that all vessels under its flag adhere to the highest compliance standards.

    A Clear Message to the International Community

    Vanuatu will continue to play its role as a responsible maritime nation and work closely with international fisheries organizations, coastal states, and regulatory bodies to combat IUU fishing worldwide.

    We urge all stakeholders to recognize the substantial actions taken by the Vanuatu Government in enforcing compliance and maintaining the integrity of our international shipping registry.

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