A three-day workshop on Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) is underway in Port Vila, aiming to strengthen how communities receive accurate information during disasters or disease outbreaks.

This is the first RCCE workshop of its kind in Vanuatu to involve not only health authorities, but also non-government organizations and the media sector.

Around 20 participants from national and provincial health offices, NGOs, and media organizations are taking part in the training, which is designed to the context of Vanuatu to enhance coordination and messaging during emergencies.

Melissa Binihi from the Health Promotion Unit at the Ministry of Health says while health officers have been carrying out this work, more support and collaboration is needed:

“RCCE is not only a one-way communication. It’s a two way. It’s one of the key channels of communication. We have to use every available channel to share risk information with our communities during disasters or outbreaks.”

Participants are receiving training on how to deliver key health messages effectively, build community trust, and encourage coordinated action in emergency situations.

“Our communities trust us. Through our messages and the feedback we receive, we can evaluate and strengthen our communication strategies,” Binihi said.

Vanuatu Red Cross also joined the workshop, sharing insights from their community emergency response experience during cyclones.

Denny Manvoi, a health assistant with the organization, says RCCE is a critical component of their work.

“It’s important that we continue to work together with government to support communities, especially when disasters arise.”

The Ministry of Health says the workshop reflects a growing commitment to collaboration and ensures that clear, accurate health messaging remains a national priority during emergencies.

All participants will receive certificates of recognition at the close of the workshop.

The training is jointly organized by the Ministry of Health, World Health Organization and with the support of the Australian Government.