PORT VILA, TUESDAY 15^th April, 2025 - A raft of amendments to the national Constitution is set to go before parliament at the end of this month 30th of April 2025. These were approved recently by the Council of Ministers.

The first amendment significant change to the Constitution would allow for exceptions to Article 5(i)(k) to cater for the creation of what would be known as Economic Development Zones. Article 5 (i)(k) states:

“equal treatment under the law or administrative action, except that no law shall be inconsistent with this sub-paragraph insofar as it makes provision for the special benefit, welfare, protection or advancement of females, children and young persons, members of under-privileged groups or inhabitants of less developed areas.”

 Under the proposed amendment, the exceptions would effectively provide for the establishment of new Economic Development Zones (EDZs), an initiative intended to encourage more private investments with a range of privileges within designated areas. Discussions over such an initiative are not new. The concept was first floated in the late 1990s, but only briefly.

This time, the Government is more optimistic that it can create such economic zones, with South Santo and the north of Efate already ear-marked as first in line for implementation. The new changes would further allow for reforms to certain laws and regulations to be adopted in the EDZs to enhance prospects for economic activities and ease of doing business. The Government anticipates that with the EDZs, it can create more opportunities for job creation and revenue generation through an expanded tax base.

The second amendment to be considered – also approved by COM this past week, is a new provision that would effectively recognize only two sexes in Vanuatu – one that is assigned at birth. The amendment is considered well in line with the visions of the founders who in their wisdom decided that Vanuatu as a sovereign country, would be founded on Melanesian values and Christian principles.

Thirdly, in the continuing efforts to ensure lasting stability and consistency in the policy making and implementation process – and following on from the strengthening of the political party systems through 17A and 17B, the Government also wants to provide for a 12-month grace period for any sitting prime minister.

In continuing the former government’s reform efforts, Prime Minister Jotham Napat who will introduce the amendments at the special sitting of parliament, wants parliamentary support for the amendment now, before taking it to the people through a second national referendum, in accordance with Article 86 of the Constitution.

The final amendment, will make voting at a referendum compulsory. Once the plebiscite is called, the Government intends to use the opportunity to see and assess if compulsory voting could be applied to all national elections.

SUNDAY 04^th 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.