UNFPA Partners with Vanuatu Department of Women Affairs to Enhance Community Resilience through Pre-Positioning Initiative
Port Vila, August 21: The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is pleased to announce its support for the Vanuatu Department of Women Affairs (DWA) through a vital pre-positioning initiative. This initiative, focusing on decentralizing relief supplies, is designed to enhance community resilience and preparedness in anticipation of future emergencies.
At a recent event marking this significant effort, Iori Kato, UNFPA’s Director for Pacific Island Countries, expressed deep appreciation for the leadership of the Ministry of Justice & Community Services and the Department of Women Affairs. This initiative, supported by the US Government through USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Affairs and the US Embassy in Port Vila, aims to pre-position "Dignity Kits" to help women and girls in emergencies. These kits include essential items such as menstrual hygiene products, critical for maintaining dignity and health during crises.
Jeffery Shelstad, Charge d'Affaires at the US Embassy in Vanuatu, remarked on the importance of this initiative, stating that the government of the United States is pleased to fund this project through UNFPA. He emphasized that this financial support, directed towards dignity kits, reflects a broader commitment to assisting countries around the world affected by natural disasters. Shelstad assured the government of Vanuatu that since the recent establishment of the US Embassy in Port Vila, they will provide increased support for disaster response and development efforts in the country.
Director-General of the Ministry of Justice and Community Services, Arthur Faerua, expressed his gratitude for the support, highlighting that this is not the first instance of UNFPA and USAID assisting Vanuatu before and during disasters. Mr. Faerua assured that the Department of Women Affairs, responsible for the Gender Cluster, will ensure that these supplies are sent to the newly built warehouses on Malekula and Tanna islands, where they will be used effectively during and after natural disasters.
Mr. Kato highlighted the importance of proactive measures in disaster preparedness, noting that pre-positioning relief supplies in strategic locations help ensure timely and effective aid distribution, minimizes logistical challenges, and reduces costs. This approach underscores the commitment to building local resilience and empowering communities to manage emergencies more effectively.
The UNFPA continues to stand with the people of Vanuatu, pledging ongoing support and collaboration with government offices and civil society to enhance community preparedness and response.