Vanuatu, through the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), will join the global commemoration of International Disaster Risk Reduction Day (IDRR) on 13 October, under the theme “Fund Resilience, Not Disaster.”
The national celebration will begin on 8 October and run until 13 October, with the main event to be held at football field of Pango Village, Efate. The week aims to raise awareness on disaster preparedness and resilience, reminding everyone of the importance of investing in preventive measures to protect lives and property.
Principal Liaison Officer at NDMO, Philip Meto, explained that IDRR is a global initiative established by the United Nations to recognize the actions countries are taking to reduce disaster risk.
“This event reminds us to strengthen preparedness, especially for countries like Vanuatu that are highly exposed to major hazards such as cyclones, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions,” Mr. Meto said.
Several awareness and training activities will be held across different islands throughout the week.
Fidel Zebeta, Senior Planning & Intel Officer, said:
“The first activity will begin on 8 October in Santo with an urban search and rescue simulation involving the NDMO, police, and emergency medical teams.
On 9 October, the Geo-Hazards Department will conduct surveys in Ambrym and Paama, followed by a land search and rescue on Emao and Efate on 10 October.
On 11 October, there will be a maritime search and rescue exercise in Tanna, alongside the launch of the Tafea Provincial Disaster and Climate Change Committee.”
The main celebration on 13 October will commence with a parade, opening ceremony, and information booths from government agencies, humanitarian partners, and schools.
Senior Training & Awareness Officer, Mark Hosea, said the event will be a great opportunity for students and the public to learn more about disaster preparedness.
“We’re encouraging everyone, especially students, to come and learn. There will be displays, information sharing, and interactive sessions with our partners,” he said.
Since 2021, Vanuatu has hosted IDRR celebrations in different provinces, including Sanma, Tafea, Penama, and Malampa. This year, Shefa Province will proudly host the main event at Pango Village.
