On 17 December 2024, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu. It claimed 14 lives, injuring more than 200 people and displacing thousands more. Just this Monday, 10 February, a 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck again – Australian news media did not even report this.
What has also not been reported is that over 50 community (village) water tanks have been damaged due to earth movement and landslides, leaving thousands of families without access to clean drinking water and increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
Australian Mercy has a long history in Vanuatu with two significant projects – Teouma Christian Academy & Pasifik Village Development.
Pasifik Village Development has long helped villages provide water to their communities by constructing community water tanks and training on water tank management. The team was there when the earthquake hit and immediately began visiting the villages they had served over the years. Most community water tanks were damaged.
This Earthquake Recovery Project appeal seeks to double the efforts and abilities of our team over the next six months. They will work alongside local villages to restore essential water supply and rebuild hope. This will be achieved in three ways:
- Provide emergency water supplies
- Support community-led water restoration efforts
- Repair or replace earthquake-damaged water tanks
A reliable 4WD vehicle to deliver water, teams and tank repair supplies into the outlying villages is the most significant tangible need right now.
The Pasifik Village Development team has already raised $6,000 towards this needed vehicle. Australian Mercy has decided to match their effort, plus another 50%, for a grand total of $15,000. Will you please join us in giving?
All funds over and above the $15-$20K needed to purchase a second-hand 4×4 vehicle will go towards 50 water tank repairs @ $500 each on average = $25,000. All giving is tax-deductible.
The dry season begins in less than six months, so the need is now. Your generosity will make an immediate and lasting impact to the thousands of families in need of water.
Thank you.
Kent
