Between the Nguna Community and the Public Works Department (PWD)
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishes a collaborative partnership between the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Nguna Community for the maintenance and upkeep of the Nguna road network. The purpose of this MOU is to ensure the road remains safe, functional, and sustainable through shared responsibility and coordinated efforts.
Scope of the MOU
This MOU applies to routine road maintenance to be carried out at least twice a year. Under this agreement, the Nguna Community agrees to undertake the following activities:
• Vegetation control, including clearing vegetation at least two metres from the edge of the road or drainage system.
• Drainage clearance, including cleaning and removing debris from side drains and culverts to maintain proper water flow.
Responsibilities of the Public Works Department (PWD)
The Public Works Department, under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, is responsible for the following:
• Road upgrading
• Road rehabilitation
• Drainage reconstruction
• Culvert replacement and structural repairs
• Slope stabilisation
Partnership Commitment
Through this Memorandum of Understanding, both the Nguna Community and the Public Works Department affirm their commitment to working together to ensure the long-term safety, resilience, and quality of the Nguna road network. This partnership strengthens community ownership, enhances road sustainability, and contributes to improved access and development for all residents of Nguna.
Both parties agree that continued cooperation, communication, and shared responsibility are essential for the successful implementation of this MOU.
As part of the MOU, road maintenance equipment funded by the Australian Government was handed over to the Nguna Community to support their road maintenance efforts.
The Norsup–Vao Road Improvement Project in north-eastern Malekula has reached a significant milestone with the signing of two major contracts. The contracts were officially signed by the Minister for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Hon. Xavier Emanuel Harry, together with local contractor New Vision Construction.
The first stage, funded at VT135 million by the Australian Government, will begin in early 2026 and deliver 1.5 km of fibre-reinforced concrete spot upgrades at critical steep sections along the 22 km Norsup–Vao core road. These improvements will enhance climate-resilient connectivity and support local economic growth.
A second stage, valued at VT192 million, is currently in the design phase. This stage will include approximately 5 km of bitumen sealing and pavement upgrades, planned to commence in the second half of 2026 following a competitive tender process. Once complete, the project will benefit communities across Pinalum, Bethel, Walarano, Atchin, and Vao on the mainland, as well as the offshore communities of Rano, Atchin, Wala, and Valo Islands.
The project is part of the ongoing Vanuatu–Australia Partnership, supporting sustainable, long-term infrastructure development in Vanuatu.
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.
Pentecost Road Line 2 and Melsisi Wharf Project Officially Launched
Groundbreaking Ceremony – 11 December 2025
A significant milestone for infrastructure development in Pentecost was marked on 11 December 2025, with the official groundbreaking ceremony for the Pentecost Road Line 2 and Melsisi Wharf Project held in Melsisi.
The ceremony was officiated by the Minister for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Hon. Xavier Emmanuel Harry, and attended by Hon. Charlot Salwai, senior government officials, traditional leaders, church representatives, and members of the Melsisi community.
Infrastructure as a Foundation for Development
In his address, Hon. Xavier Emmanuel Harry emphasised the critical role of infrastructure in national development, stating that roads, wharves, and airports are essential foundations for economic growth, service delivery, and improved livelihoods. He highlighted that reliable infrastructure strengthens climate resilience, enhances connectivity, and supports long-term development across rural communities.
Transformative Impact for Central Pentecost
The project represents a major investment in Central Pentecost, aimed at improving transport access, supporting local economic activities, and strengthening community resilience. Once completed, the upgraded road and new wharf will benefit key sectors such as agriculture, trade, and tourism, while improving safety and accessibility for residents.
Hon. Harry reaffirmed the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities’ commitment to delivering fair, inclusive, and resilient infrastructure, ensuring that rural and remote communities are not left behind.
Project Overview
• Road Works: Rehabilitation of approximately 23.9 kilometres of road from Melsisi to Lekasubu
• Marine Infrastructure: Construction of a new Melsisi Wharf to improve transport and trade
• Project Value: VT 3,240,000
• Contractor: Shanghai
Engineers from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities and the Public Works Department will closely monitor all stages of construction to ensure compliance with national quality and safety standards. Any works that do not meet the required standards will be rectified by the contractor.
Acknowledgements and Community Responsibility
The Minister acknowledged the support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Public Works Department teams, development partners, local leaders, and the people of Melsisi. He also encouraged the community to take shared responsibility for maintaining the road and associated infrastructure to ensure its long-term sustainability.
The groundbreaking ceremony reflects strong partnership, unity, and shared commitment as Pentecost moves towards a more connected and resilient future.
