Vanuatu’s plan to transform its capital | The Pacific

Key Concepts:

• Earthquake recovery in Port Vila, Vanuatu
• Tourism's role in Vanuatu's economy
• Challenges in domestic connectivity and infrastructure
• Building code enforcement and construction standards
• Redevelopment and town planning initiatives
• Landslide impact on the international wharf
• Domestic shipping and supply chain disruptions

1. Tourism and Economic Impact:

• Tourism is the "lifeblood of Vanuatu's economy."
• Despite the earthquake, demand for holidays has remained strong.
• The handicraft markets, an important source of income for many women, have reopened.
• Operators in Santo, Tana, and the outer islands are struggling due to connectivity issues.
• Example: A tourist states, "We love snorkeling...the snorkeling here is incredible," highlighting the appeal of Vanuatu's natural attractions.

2. Infrastructure and Redevelopment:

• Demolition works are progressing steadily in Port Vila.
• The main road through town has reopened and is being upgraded with a grant from China.
• A hotel group is seeking proposals from international architects to rebuild Chantelis on the Bay, aiming for up to 40 rooms. Proposals have been received from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and Thailand.
• The period of regeneration has prompted reflection on how the city should be rebuilt, with some calling for a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
• The international wharf is blocked by a landslide, causing significant disruptions to domestic shipping. What used to be a 5-minute drive to the work site now requires a 45-minute boat ride.

3. Building Code and Construction Standards:

• Concerns were raised by the Pacific Community (SPC) about the enforcement of Vanuatu's national building code on China-aided projects, including a high school and the presidential palace.
• The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) defended the media's duty to report on these issues in the public interest.
• The government has promised a revised building code and stricter enforcement.
• A resident expressed hope that new buildings will be safer than before, with the government employing foreign construction companies to build more robust structures.

4. Domestic Connectivity and Shipping:

• Domestic connectivity is a major challenge, particularly for operators in Santo and Tana.
• The landslide blocking the international wharf is severely impacting domestic shipping, which is the "lifeline for communities in the outer islands."
• Disruptions affect the supply of fuel and goods from Port Vila to the islands, as well as the export of goods from the islands.

5. Town Planning and Future Vision:

• There are calls for proper town planning and architectural redesign of the town center.
• The idea of pedestrianizing the Port Vila main street CBD is being considered to attract more customers and foster interaction between visitors and locals.
• A cafe owner relocated to the suburbs after 30 years in town due to the slow pace of reopening, highlighting the need for government support.

6. Challenges and Optimism:

• The Prime Minister's office did not respond to questions about the progress of recovery efforts.
• Despite the challenges, people are optimistic about the future of the city.
• Quote: "It will be better, but it's going to come slowly, slowly, slowly, and it's going to be more than before."

7. Synthesis/Conclusion:

The recovery of Port Vila from the earthquake is a complex process involving infrastructure redevelopment, economic revitalization, and improved building standards. While tourism remains a crucial economic driver, challenges such as domestic connectivity and the landslide at the international wharf hinder progress. The community is optimistic about the future, envisioning a more resilient and pedestrian-friendly city, but the pace of recovery is expected to be gradual.