Sadhana Mohan, Connecting Business initiative
When the 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Port Vila on December 17, 2024, it left devastation in its wake—14 lives lost, over 265 injured, and more than 2,400 displaced. The disaster damaged critical infrastructure, from roads and water reservoirs to communication systems, leaving the nation of 300,000 population stunned. Yet, amidst the chaos, a story of resilience began to emerge, with a strong role played by the private sector. This is thanks in great part to the unwavering efforts of the Vanuatu Business Resilience Council (VBRC), a CBi Member Network.
VBRC mobilised within hours of the crisis, quickly providing essential needs assessments to guide Government emergency actions. Working with development partners, they helped facilitate the procurement of Starlink technology to support the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) with communications. Private sector members secured vital resources, including refrigerated containers for Vila Central Hospital. Through coordinated efforts with key stakeholders, essential services including supermarkets, banks, and insurance companies resumed operations within days of the disaster.
"We are deeply committed to not just restoring what was lost, but to building a stronger, more resilient Vanuatu," said Glen Craig, Chair of the VBRC. "Although disasters have tested us before—there’s a reason why Vanuatu ranks at the top of the Climate Risk Index—earthquakes are not something we have fully prepared ourselves for. But this crisis has reinforced the power of collaboration between the private sector, Government, and our international partners."
VBRC’s commitment extends beyond immediate relief. In partnership with the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industries (VCCI), they launched a live business status database to understand and address the needs of affected businesses. While the data highlighted the challenges—21% of businesses remained closed, and 15% faced physical damage, loss of equipment and of stock—it also revealed a spirit of determination, with 44% fully operational and 40% planning to reopen within a month.
Looking ahead, VBRC is working closely with the Government to rebuild Port Vila into a more modern, vibrant city. The newly approved Special Category Visa programme, championed by VBRC, allows businesses to recruit skilled specialists for reconstruction, accelerating recovery while prioritizing local employment.
Through swift action, strategic planning, and a commitment to resilience, VBRC is leading the charge in transforming disaster into an opportunity for growth. Together with its partners, the council is laying the foundation for a brighter future in Vanuatu.