Vanuatu Marks One Year Since Devastating Earthquake

On March 10, 2023, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.3 struck Vanuatu, resulting in significant loss and disruption. One year later, the physical tremors have ceased, but the emotional aftershocks are profoundly felt throughout the nation. The earthquake claimed 14 lives, injured hundreds, and displaced thousands, leaving the city of Port Vila grappling with its aftermath. The economic toll is estimated at nearly US$200 million, representing approximately 17 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product.

As residents prepare to commemorate the anniversary with a parade and vigil in Port Vila, reflections on loss, resilience, and recovery are at the forefront. Dickinson Tevi, secretary-general of the Vanuatu Red Cross Society, expressed hope that the anniversary program will provide closure to families affected by the disaster. “The memory of that day remains raw,” Tevi remarked, acknowledging the lingering feelings of fear and uncertainty within the community.

Community Resilience and Transformation

The emotional impact of the earthquake has reshaped daily life in Vanuatu. Kizzy Kalsakau, a news producer at Buzz FM, noted that the community has been permanently altered. She highlighted the heightened anxiety during subsequent tremors, stating, “We all have trauma that we experienced and it’s sitting with us.” The upcoming vigil, she hopes, will foster healing and encourage the community to move forward, rebuilding and looking ahead.

While the central business district of Port Vila remains largely empty, there are signs of progress. Ivan Oswald, owner of Nambawan Cafe, described the eerie atmosphere in the CBD, likening it to “walking through a ghost town.” Despite the challenges, he is optimistic about recovery. Oswald recalled the day of the earthquake, noting that he was at home with his children when the disaster struck. After experiencing the chaos and destruction, he transformed his business by setting up a temporary cafe in a tent, allowing his staff to remain employed during the crisis.

Though business has been slow, Oswald remains hopeful. “Everyone’s looking forward to Christmas and moving forward,” he said. “People can see the light coming, or the growth, the change, the positivity of the next year.”

Addressing Social Challenges and Future Preparedness

The earthquake’s impact extended beyond physical destruction, triggering a rise in domestic violence cases. Jane Iatika, president of the Port Vila City Council of Women, reported nearly 50 assault cases, primarily against women, in the aftermath of the earthquake. She emphasized the need for increased resources and support to combat domestic violence, stating, “The rate of domestic violence is very high here in Vanuatu.” Iatika called for collaboration to address the escalating issue, urging the government to invest more in community awareness initiatives.

Mental health support remains another critical area requiring attention. Ralph Regenvanu, the Minister for Climate Change and Disaster Management, acknowledged the inadequacy of resources to address issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). “We do have a small unit at the hospital dealing with mental health,” he said, stressing the importance of community involvement in healing.

Regenvanu also highlighted the lessons learned from the disaster, particularly regarding disaster response protocols. “We should have let heavy machinery into the area earlier,” he noted, indicating that faster action could have potentially saved lives. He is optimistic about future preparedness, stating that the government is now better equipped to respond to disasters.

Looking ahead, the Vanuatu Recovery Operations Centre is leading efforts to rebuild Port Vila over the next five years. Peter Korisa, head of the recovery coordination unit, explained that the recovery process is already underway, though securing funding remains a challenge. “We have to do some work in terms of proper design and risk mapping,” he stated.

New building standards are being implemented to ensure future constructions are resilient against earthquakes, addressing past deficiencies in building codes. “We do have an opportunity to do things better and do them right,” Regenvanu concluded.

As the community of Vanuatu reflects on the past year, there is a collective determination to rise from the rubble. Kalsakau encapsulated this spirit of resilience, stating, “We are still standing, remembering yesterday, rebuilding today and rising tomorrow.”