Port Vila – The International Organization for Migration (IOM), through the Global Emergency Response Program (GERP) funded by the Federal Republic of Germany, has provided much needed aid to 150 households affected by the devastating Tropical Cyclones Judy and Kevin in Vanuatu. This timely assistance includes essential Shelter and Non-Food Item (S-NFI) Kits, providing relief and support to the affected communities. 

Vanuatu experienced the destructive force of two Category 4 tropical cyclones, Judy and Kevin, on March 1 and 3 respectively. These cyclones caused extensive damage to homes, food gardens, and infrastructure, impacting more than 251,000 people, according to estimates from the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in Vanuatu. 

In response, IOM has collaborated closely with the National Shelter Cluster, the Emergency Operations Centre, and the Vanuatu National Disaster Management Centre (NDMO) to provide essential aid. Specifically, 150 S-NFI Kits were distributed to the affected communities on Ifira Island, as well as displaced families still residing in evacuation centres on the Island of Efate. The kits benefitted 700 individuals in total. 

During the aid distribution, beneficiaries received valuable training on safe shelter construction techniques as part of the Build Back Safer awareness program. The training empowers individuals like Malten Willie from Mele Waisisi, who expressed her gratitude: "As a widow, I depend on the mercy of others. My children told me to sleep in the church building until they fixed their houses, then they will be in a position to assist me. I am grateful to receive this support from IOM so that I can go back and reconstruct my house." 

The impact of IOM's efforts has been widely appreciated by local representatives. Edward Kalsakau, the area council representative from Ifira, expressed his sincere gratitude for the complete S-NFI kits, which complement the relief efforts of the Vanuatu Government. 

Anne-Marie, the Mele Area Council Representative, echoed these sentiments when IOM presented the kits to the internally displaced persons (IDPs) living at Mele Waisis Presbyterian Church grounds. She emphasized the practicality of the combined S-NFI kits, including kitchen sets, blankets, mats, solar lights, and garden tools, stating that they are of great assistance to the rural population. 

Cecilia McIntosh, Officer in Charge of IOM Vanuatu, expressed her satisfaction with the successful delivery of these much-needed supplies: "IOM is very pleased to provide the essential S-NFI items to assist Vanuatu's communities in rebuilding their homes. We extend our sincere thanks to the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany for their generous financial support, which has enabled us to reach and support these vulnerable households effectively." 
 

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For more information, please contact Cecilia McIntosh, at IOM Vanuatu, at Tel: +678 29784, Email: cmcintosh@iom.int