Highlights
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On 13 March, Tropical Cyclone Pam caused severe damage to agriculture (crops, fisheries, livestock and forestry) in Vanuatu’s six provinces, posing an immediate and long-term threat to food security. Tafea is the worst affected province, followed by Shefa, Penama, Malampa, Torba and Sanma.
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Around 80 percent of the population relies on agriculture for their livelihood. Cash crops and agriculture exports have also been heavily affected.
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Damages, according to preliminary observations and initial rapid assessments (21 March):
- Fully damaged plants: banana, all fruit trees, coconuts, yam and soft yams
- Partially damaged plants: taro, manioc, strong yams and kumala
- Livestock losses: chickens, pigs, pens and shelters
- Fisheries damage/losses: canoes, small boats, fishing gear and infrastructure
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In all provinces, much of the population will be without local staple food supply from the end of March until at least mid-June when fast-growing crops can be harvested if replanting starts immediately.
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Affected families urgently need food and agricultural assistance – including seeds, planting material and farming equipment – to avoid food shortages and quickly replant crops.
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Preparedness measures undertaken by the Government are helping to reduce the impact of this disaster. FAO is supporting government-led efforts, working closely with the Vanuatu Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, Fisheries and Biosecurity) and co-leading the national Food Security and Agriculture Cluster.
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Initial response efforts of the Food Security and Agriculture Cluster include:
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Communication with communities: agricultural messages delivered pre- and post-cyclone
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Assessments: participating in all Initial Rapid Assessments and commencing in-depth agricultural assessments
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Planning of domestic planting material exchange: from less affected islands to more affected islands
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Agricultural input package: procurement of local seed supply and stocktaking of regional seed stocks for import
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Food distribution guidelines: distribution through community committees.
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A Flash Appeal will be launched this week to support ongoing response operations, for a three-month period.
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Even at this early stage, hand in hand with relief efforts, FAO is working closely with the government to lay a foundation for longer-term recovery and more resilient livelihoods.