Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation pledges over VT1M for Vanuatu earthquake relief

January 15, 2025 10:05 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

The Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation has pledged $20,000 (around VT1,074,600)to support relief and recovery efforts in Vanuatu, following the recent earthquake that devastated the country last month.

The contribution was handed over to the Chief Financial Officer of Vodafone Vanuatu Ravendra Chand as part of their dedication to helping communities in crisis through their Vodafone Red Alert (VRA) program, a key component of the Foundation’s disaster response efforts specifically designed to provide aid to regions devastated by natural disasters.

This proactive strategy highlights the Foundation’s steadfast dedication to resilience, recovery, and the rebuilding of impacted communities.

“In times of adversity, a unified response is essential,” Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation chairman Ivan Fong said.

“Our support for Vanuatu demonstrates our commitment to helping communities rebuild and recover from the devastation caused by the recent earthquake.

“This allocation, endorsed by our Vodafone ATH Trustees, highlights the importance of regional cooperation and collective action.”

The allocated funds will be used to establish and restore communication channels, ensuring that affected communities can connect with emergency services and receive timely updates.

Vodafone Fiji chief executive officer Elenoa Biukoto stressed the importance of communication during disasters.

“By prioritising the restoration of communication infrastructure, we aim to expedite relief operations and support the recovery of impacted communities,” Ms Biukoto said.

“Effective communication is not just about connectivity; it’s about saving lives and rebuilding hope.”

The foundation is actively collaborating with local authorities, non-governmental organisations and community leaders to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated response to maximise the impact of the support provided, ensuring resources reach those in greatest need.

Vodafone Red Alert was one of two initial programs launched by the Vodafone ATH Foundation when it was established 20 years ago.

The foundation is now a comprehensive network of 10 programs that fund 100 charities annually, and over the last 20 years has funded $50million worth of social services in partnership with 10 program charity partners and its network.

 – The Fiji Times

Note: This article was first published in the print edition of the Fiji Times dated January 10, 2025.