Thousands gathered in North Efate to mark Shefa Day 2025, with a powerful message from national and provincial leaders highlighting the importance of decentralization and inclusive development across Shefa Province.

The celebration brought together leaders from the national government, the Shefa Provincial Government, community chiefs, churches, and citizens — united in their call to strengthen governance and service delivery at the grassroot’s level.

In his official address, Secretary General of Shefa Province, Lionel Kaluat, laid out four key priorities to drive development through decentralized governance:

“We need to ensure that funding reaches area councils so services are delivered fairly and reach their people,” Kaluat said.
“We must also strengthen the work of PITAC (Provincial Technical Advisory Committee)…ensure work plans are more practical to address the nation’s and province’ priorities, review public service act and decentralization acts to support decentralization and implementation at the provincial level, and promote the local economy through capacity building, transparency, and accountability.”

Prime Minister Jotham Napat, who officiated the event, reinforced the government’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with customary leadership to ensure that development reaches all communities.

“This week, I held my first official meeting with the President of Malvatumauri, marking a new era of collaboration between government and custom governance. We are committed to defending and upholding the traditional values that shape our national identity,” said Napat.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Shefa’s role in hosting citizens from other provinces, calling it the “heart of the Republic.”

“Shefa people understand the spirit of celebration and inclusion. But we must remember — Vanuatu belongs to all provinces. I thank Shefa for hosting families from other islands and urge that no one be turned away. We are one people,” he added.

The event also saw the Public Service Commission showcased the work of various government departments, while Efate communities celebrated their custom and culture through vibrant displays of traditional dress and performances of their nakainamanga- the Roymata’s unification of tribes.

A major highlight was the announcement of 1.8 billion vatu approved by the government for the development of the Efate Ring Road, and the Shefa Health Administration location at the North Efate Area Council as key infrastructure projects under the national People’s Plan.

The 2025 Shefa Day celebration concluded with a strong and united call to strengthen communities, promote transparency, and build a better future through shared leadership between government and people.