CARE Vanuatu’s Disaster READY 2.0 Project, supported by the Australian Government through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership and implemented together with the Vanuatu Society for People with Disabilities, has marked a major milestone this month with the launch of the Community Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan (CDPRP) for six communities in the East Tanna Area Council.

The official ceremony, hosted in Ipikangien, brought together 55 Community Disaster and Climate Change Committee (CDCCC) members, alongside provincial and area council representatives. Their participation underscored strong local leadership and a shared commitment to improving disaster preparedness and coordination across East Tanna and the wider Tafea Province.

East Tanna faces frequent natural hazards, including cyclones, earthquakes, and volcanic ashfall from Mt. Yasur. In this high-risk environment, the introduction of a community-led disaster plan is critical. This launch is historic—it is the first-ever disaster preparedness and response plan for the East Tanna Area Council, providing communities with a structured guide to strengthen resilience and response capabilities.

The event united community leaders, women, youth, teachers, church representatives, and people with disabilities to build capacity for anticipating and responding to emergencies. The CDPRP booklets outline hazards, evacuation routes, resources, roles, and emergency contacts, serving as long-term, community-owned tools that promote inclusive planning and stronger disaster governance.

Hands-on training, simulation exercises, and interactive learning sessions during the launch helped participants practice their roles and boost confidence in using the new plan. This achievement reflects the lasting impact of the Disaster READY 2.0 Project—empowering communities with knowledge and tools to lead their own preparedness efforts while reinforcing provincial systems that safeguard lives and livelihoods.