The handing-over ceremony for Navaka Bridge Package 1 was held on 18 December 2025, marking another important milestone under the Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project (VCRTP). This significant event was witnessed by the people of Santo and attended by Government officials and representatives of the World Bank. The ceremony was held on behalf of the Government of Vanuatu under the strong leadership of the Honorable Xavier Emmanuel Harry, Minister for Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU).

 

During the ceremony, Mr. John Moses Tinapua, First Political Advisor, speaking on behalf of the Honorable Minister, stated that the occasion marked the opening of another key component of Project Package 3 of the VCRTP, including Navaka Bridge Package 1. He emphasized that this achievement reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening transport infrastructure across the country.

 

Mr. Tinapua highlighted that the project is not only about the construction of roads and bridges, but also represents a promise to the people of Santo and Vanuatu as a whole. The works include 11 bridges, two box culverts, and two pedestrian footbridges, all designed to be climate-resilient, improving safety, accessibility, and long-term connectivity for communities.

 

Project Summary

 

The project details as outlined during the ceremony include:

• The project was approved by the World Bank Group on 23 January 2020

• The project is divided into four key components:

• Component 1: Sectoral and Spatial Planning Tools

• Component 2: Provision of Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Solutions

• Component 3: Capacity Building of the Public Works Department under MIPU

• Component 4: Emergency Response Support across Vanuatu

• Korea Consultants International engaged as the contractor

• Construction commenced on 6 March 2020

• Final project budget of USD 142.8 million, approximately VUV 15 billion

• A total of 65 kilometres of road upgraded from Luganville to Tasiriki

 

In his opening remarks, the Lord Mayor of Luganville acknowledged the importance of the project for the people of Sanma Province. He emphasized that roads form the foundation for future development, safer communities, and stronger economic growth. He further highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration to ensure that Sanma and Luganville continue to serve as the gateway to the northern islands and a key economic corridor for the nation.

 

Speaking on behalf of the World Bank, Ms. Leisande Otto expressed appreciation for the strong partnership between the World Bank and the Government of Vanuatu. She noted that the World Bank remains committed to supporting development initiatives that create jobs, strengthen key sectors, and enhance economic opportunities within Sanma Province. She also highlighted the Bank’s role as a financier, supervisor, and provider of technical assistance.

 

Ms. Otto reaffirmed the World Bank’s continued support to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities in ensuring effective planning, maintenance, and resilience of roads and bridges, particularly during and after disaster events. She concluded by emphasizing strong government ownership and leadership as key factors in the successful implementation of the project.

 

Acknowledgement was extended to the General Manager of CCECC, the Project Team Leader and Design Supervisor, engineers, Korea Consultants International, Mr. Paula Baleilevuka, former Deputy Head of the Project Implementation Unit, all Government representatives, and the people of Luganville for their collective contributions to the project.

 

The Government of Vanuatu, through the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, extends its sincere appreciation to the World Bank Group as the principal financial partner for its continued support toward the development of climate-resilient infrastructure.

 

This milestone reflects strong leadership, trusted partnerships, and a shared commitment to resilient infrastructure, improved connectivity, and sustainable development, as the Government continues to build a safer and more connected Vanuatu for future generations.

 

 

 

Opening and Handing Over Ceremony – Package 1: Navaka Bridge, South Santo

Package 1 of the Navaka Bridge Project has officially reached 98% completion, marking a significant milestone with the opening and handing over ceremony held in South Santo.

The project was implemented over a 24-month period, with the contract extended on three occasions due to challenging weather conditions that affected construction activities.

Package 1 involved the construction of 14 steel bridges, ranging in length from 30 metres to 210 metres. The Navaka Bridge, measuring 210 metres, is the largest steel truss bridge in Vanuatu, representing a major achievement in the country’s infrastructure development.

The successful delivery of this project strongly supports the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU) and the Government of Vanuatu in improving national connectivity and promoting economic growth in alignment with the People’s Plan 2030.

The Government of Vanuatu extends its sincere appreciation to the World Bank Group and the contractor for their continued support and commitment to enhancing connectivity, accessibility, and livelihoods for the people of Santo.

Together, we are building stronger connections and a better future for Vanuatu.