SPC Geoscience Division

With a history of 25 hurricanes, 21 volcanic activity events, three earthquakes and three gales in the past 26 years, Vanuatu has been able to document the impact of disasters upon the country’s development, and determine areas where future spending should take place.

At the recently held SPC/SOPAC Division’s 3rd Session of the Pacific Platform for Disaster Risk Management, the high-level discussions included disaster risk financing and a pilot insurance project.

As an immediate outcome of the Platform, a joint SPC/SOPAC Division - World Bank mission to Vanuatu has taken place to further develop these discussions. During his dialogue with the mission representatives, the Hon. Moana Carcasses, Minister of Finance and Economic Management expressed Vanuatu’s interest in participating in the pilot Pacific Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Programme.