An estimated 106 million Kina (around USD 46 million), and counting, is the cost of damages, from what is being called the evil twin cyclones that hit Vanuatu in less than a week, beginning with tropical cyclone Judy on the 2nd of March, followed by cyclone Kevin on the 4th, coupled with a magnitude 6.5 and 5.4 earthquakes, the following day.
Sources on the ground say, the figure is sure to rise as communications are restored and a more detailed assessment becomes possible.
The extent of devastation by these historical back-to-back category 4 cyclones have extremely affected the peri-urban poor, living in squatter communities in informal housing.
According to sources, several of these communities experienced widespread damage.
Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital is slowly reconnecting its electricity, and sources say it will take at least another week for a total power restoration.
Prime Minister of Vanuatu, in an interview on Vanuatu Broadcasting Television Corporation this morning, said despite the extent of the damages, food security and supply, sufficient drinking water supply and accessibility of necessary medicine is the government’s priority at this time.
The PM anticipates Vanuatu has a couple of weeks before the problem of food security becomes critical.
The International community under the FRANZ agreement including France, Australia and New Zealand are already on the ground in Vanuatu through quick deployment of military assets.
A French coast guard ship is already in Tanna; several planes from the three countries are delivering supplies and conducting aerial assessment operations.
The HMAS Canberra from Australia is due to arrive in Port Vila tomorrow with helicopters, relief supplies and 600 ADF personnel.
Local utility companies have imported teams from overseas to help speed the return of water, power and telecommunications.
While restoration is underway, it is becoming more apparent that Vanuatu’s traditional cultural social safety net is fraying as a result of the disaster.
Many locals who are dependent on the cash economy can no longer rely on family or the land to help them in this current time of need.
Sources say, Vanuatu has always taken pride in being a place without the scarcity of food and shelter.
However, after this double disaster, that is no longer true for some.
