The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has issued an urgent appeal for humanitarian assistance following a catastrophic 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck the South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu on December 17. The quake, which was followed by several major aftershocks, has caused widespread devastation, affecting an estimated 40,000 children and leaving the nation in desperate need of aid.
Vanuatu, an archipelago of 83 islands located in Melanesia, Oceania, has a population of approximately 300,000. The island nation lies in the South Pacific, roughly 1,700 kilometers east of northern Australia. The broader Melanesia region also includes Papua New Guinea, Fiji, New Caledonia, and the Bismarck Archipelago.
The aftermath of the earthquake has been devastating. Vanuatu's Interim Prime Minister, Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas, declared a state of emergency in the wake of the disaster and imposed a seven-day curfew in the most affected areas. The government has also called for international assistance. According to the latest reports, at least 14 people have lost their lives, and over 200 have sustained injuries. The damage to infrastructure has been extensive, with hospitals, schools, and homes severely impacted.
Landslides triggered by the earthquake have blocked key roads and bridges, including those connecting the airport and the main seaport. Telecommunications across the islands have been disrupted, with many areas experiencing intermittent or completely downed networks.
Eric Durpaire, Chief of UNICEF Pacific’s Vanuatu Field Office, emphasized the critical urgency of the situation, stating, “The immediate priority is to reach children and families with the life-saving support they need.” He confirmed that UNICEF is actively working alongside the government, civil society organizations, and other development partners to spearhead response efforts.
As the scope of the needs becomes clearer, UNICEF has pledged to intensify its support for children and families through life-saving interventions. These include restoring water supplies, distributing essential supplies, and ensuring access to safe water and hygiene. The agency is also mobilizing efforts to provide nutrition and health services, education, child protection, and social protection for the affected population.
To address immediate health concerns, UNICEF has already dispatched community first aid kits, Interagency Emergency Health Kits, and tents to ensure the continuity of essential health services. In addition, the organization is supplying safe water to healthcare facilities and working to restore basic services as quickly as possible.
UNICEF’s ongoing response highlights the immense challenges faced by the people of Vanuatu, particularly its children, in the aftermath of this devastating disaster. The organization continues to call for global solidarity and support to ensure that the most vulnerable receive the help they desperately need during this critical time.