World Bank Provides Emergency Aid to Vanuatu After Devastating Earthquake

The World Bank has announced a $12 million grant to Vanuatu to support the country's emergency response and reconstruction efforts following a powerful earthquake that struck the archipelago on December 17. The 7.3-magnitude quake resulted in significant loss of life and widespread damage.

Stephen N. Ndegwa, the World Bank’s Director of Operations for the Pacific and Papua New Guinea, expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of the disaster. "The scale and traumatic nature of this disaster, along with the human toll and substantial damages, are catastrophic. We stand with the people of Vanuatu in their efforts to recover and rebuild," he stated in a recent press release. Ndegwa also highlighted the economic challenges the country faces, noting that the destruction of infrastructure and disruptions to trade in the capital, Port Vila, will likely have a significant economic impact, especially during the peak tourist season.

The grant is part of the World Bank's Rapid Response Option (RRO), a newly introduced mechanism designed to provide immediate and flexible access to funds during crises. This initiative aims to help affected countries quickly mobilize resources to address urgent needs and begin the recovery process.

According to the latest figures from the local government and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the earthquake resulted in at least 12 deaths and over 200 injuries. The disaster also caused major disruptions to essential services, including water supply systems, mobile networks, and operations at the main port of Port Vila.

The situation was further exacerbated by a second aftershock, measuring 6.1 in magnitude, which struck the region on December 21, complicating the already dire conditions faced by the local population.

An emergency state remains in effect across the island, with a seven-day curfew imposed in certain areas of Port Vila from dusk to dawn. The road leading to the port remains blocked, hindering the transportation of goods and supplies.

Vanuatu, a nation of approximately 320,000 people, is located on the Pacific's "Ring of Fire," an area known for its frequent seismic activity. The country continues to recover from the damage caused by the earthquake and its aftershocks, with international support playing a crucial role in the ongoing relief and reconstruction efforts.