Vanuatu, an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean comprising more than 80 islands, is prone to recurring natural hazards—such as cyclones, earthquakes, and volcanos—and the effects of climate change. USAID works with nongovernmental and international organizations to meet humanitarian needs and complement government relief efforts in response to disasters induced by natural hazards. In addition to disaster response, USAID supports a number of activities to mitigate disaster risk in the country and help government authorities, emergency responders, and communities prepare for and respond to natural disasters.
On October 27, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Katherine E. Monahan issued a declaration of humanitarian need due to the effects of Tropical Cyclone Lola. In response, USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA) provided $500,000 to support emergency shelter, protection, and water, sanitation, and hygiene assistance throughout Vanuatu. The funding follows previous USAID/BHA emergency assistance in Vanuatu for Tropical Cyclones Judy and Kevin in 2023 and long-standing investments in disaster risk reduction programs across the Pacific.
