Vanuatu Earthquakes: Emergency Appeal Launched

ActionAid Australia has launched an emergency appeal following two major earthquakes in the past 24 hours, to support locals in Port Vila and East Efate in need of urgent supplies and support.

The emergency response, which will be conducted by ActionAid Australia staff currently in Vanuatu along with ActionAid Vanuatu staff, will include a targeted response for people with disabilities living in unsafe dwellings on the outskirts of Port Vila, and will focus on emergency food and water distributions, shelter and support to rebuild homes, psychosocial support and protecting vulnerable women and women with disabilities.

Carol Angir, who is the head of ActionAid Australia’s humanitarian programs, was in Port Vila when the earthquake struck.

“I’ve been through earthquakes before but this is the worst. Everyone has been affected. Three of us hid under the table as the earth shook violently underneath us. And when it was over, I went out front and I have never seen anything like this. My colleagues were shaking with fright and all of our stationery and office equipment were scattered all over the floor.

“Getting out of the office door was the most difficult task, and when I finally got outside, I realised the magnitude. I realised that we got lucky. Most buildings in Port Vila are destroyed and this has left one big question: what about those who don’t have good homes,” she said.

Australians are encouraged to make a donation to support locals in Vanuatu in urgent need of support: vanuatu.actionaid.org.au

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Spokespeople in Vanuatu are available for comment, subject to phone connection.

For further information or to arrange interviews please contact Steph Wulf:

[email protected]

+61 (0)413 414 616