World Bank commends Vanuatu’s urban development plans
August 3, 2026 10:35 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Doddy Morris.
A high-level World Bank delegation has praised the Government of Vanuatu for its leadership and long-term vision in advancing sustainable urban development following a two-day mission to review major land, settlement and urban development initiatives in Port Vila.
The Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP) under the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MOIA) relayed in a statement that the delegation visited Vanuatu from 28 to 29 July and met with Government ministers and senior officials before touring key projects under the Vanuatu Affordable and Resilient Settlements (VARS) Project.
The delegation, led by World Bank Division Director Han Fraeters, inspected the Elol Etas pilot subdivision, received updates on the Settlement Upgrading Programme, and was briefed on the Port Vila Central Business District (CBD) Redevelopment Programme, which aims to rebuild the capital following the December 2024 earthquake.
Director General (DG) of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MoLNR), William Nasak, said the projects are helping establish stronger land administration, better urban planning and sustainable settlement development that will benefit communities across Vanuatu.
DG of the MOIA, Leith Veremaito, said rebuilding Port Vila’s CBD is part of the Government’s long-term vision to create a safer, more resilient capital that supports businesses, tourism and employment.
World Bank Division Director Fraeters said the Government is showing clear leadership by strengthening land administration, improving urban planning and expanding access to affordable and resilient settlements.
The statement said the World Bank and the Government of Vanuatu will continue working together to support resilient infrastructure, stronger institutions and sustainable urban development across the country.
According to reports, the World Bank is one of Vanuatu’s largest development partners, supporting projects that improve climate resilience, transport, urban development, fisheries, trade and disaster preparedness.
Among its major investments is the US$142.8 million (VT16.9 billion) Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project, which is upgrading key roads and bridges to withstand severe weather and climate impacts.
The Bank is also supporting the VARS Project, valued at around US$25 million (VT2.98 billion), which aims to improve services in informal settlements around Port Vila while supporting the long-term redevelopment of the capital’s CBD.
In addition, it recently approved support for fisheries development, trade facilitation and disaster response financing, helping Vanuatu strengthen economic growth and improve resilience against future natural disasters.
The DUAP said the partnership between the Government and the World Bank continues to play an important role in improving the quality of life for communities while supporting Vanuatu’s long-term development goals.
