Women build livelihoods through VANGO sewing project

July 7, 2025 10:34 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

Compiled by Doddy Morris.

The Vanuatu Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (VANGO) has donated five sewing machines and two overlock machines to Foundation 1 in Britano, Port Vila, this week to support livelihoods affected by the December 2024 earthquake.

The donation was made through VANGO’s Facility Aided Locally Led Engagement (FALE) initiative, which provided sewing equipment and materials to Foundation 1, an emerging Community-Based Organisation (CBO) based in Britano.

“VANGO donated five sewing machines and two overlock sewing machines with the aim of creating new local economic opportunities following the employment impacts,” the organisation noted.

The FALE initiative is designed to support humanitarian action within 72 hours of a disaster and contribute to long-term community recovery through Civil Society Organisation (CSO) members. Its focus is on helping communities rebuild livelihoods using practical solutions that enable local CSOs to mobilise resources and respond to their own needs, instead of relying solely on outside help.

“The VANGO FALE support to Foundation 1 is part of ongoing recovery work and efforts to rebuild livelihoods in the aftermath of the recent earthquake,” VANGO said.

According to early findings from the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and the Department of Labour (DoL), nearly 900 employees across the country have lost their jobs—45% of whom were full-time workers. This widespread job loss has also affected families and communities that were not directly impacted.

VANGO Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shirley Abraham said that while many humanitarian activities tend to focus on short-term needs, the FALE programme supports long-term recovery and economic self-reliance through livelihood projects led by communities.

Mrs. Abraham noted that over 40 active CSOs—including INGOs, NNGOs, and CBOs—are operating in Efate, where the earthquake caused widespread damage. She acknowledged the continued efforts of VANGO members in supporting response and recovery activities in affected communities.

Mrs. Esther Belden, Project Manager of Foundation 1, welcomed the donation and said it would support both women and youth in the community.

“This is a proud and exciting moment for us. The sewing machines will benefit an initial 20 women who have enrolled in our free sewing classes. These women will gain practical skills that will allow them to produce and sell their own garments, providing financial support for their families,” she said.

Executive Director of Foundation 1, Mr. Kim Jones, explained that the organisation is committed to supporting the community through skills training and livelihood programmes. Foundation 1 aims to build a multipurpose community hall in the Britano area, where unemployed women and out-of-school youth can access skills training and participate in educational activities.

VANGO continues to build the coordination, capacity, and governance of its CSO members to prepare them for leading roles in humanitarian response. Over 200 organisations are listed in the VANGO directory, and more than 50 CSOs from provinces such as TAFEA, SANMA, and SHEFA have taken part in governance and institutional strengthening training.

VANGO acknowledges the support of FALE Pacific, PIANGO, and the Vitol Foundation for helping make this initiative possible and contributing to community recovery after the earthquake. VANGO also encourages interested organisations to join its growing network.