Strengthening Vanuatu’s Fisheries Future Through the VU PROP Initiative
The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority is supporting stakeholder awareness of a major new initiative designed to transform Vanuatu’s fisheries sector and strengthen maritime infrastructure across the country. The Vanuatu Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program (VU PROP), led by the Ministry of Fisheries, Oceans and Maritime Affairs, brings together a series of investments aimed at improving economic opportunities for fishers, enhancing domestic seafood supply, and building resilience to climate change and natural hazards.
The project will deliver key infrastructure upgrades in Luganville, including a new multipurpose jetty, improved fisheries facilities, and upgrades to the provincial fish market, alongside the construction of a modern, climate-resilient headquarters in Port Vila. These developments are expected to improve safety, efficiency, and compliance across the maritime and fisheries sectors, while supporting local value chains through better cold storage, processing, and market access.
Beyond infrastructure, the program places strong emphasis on governance, training, and data systems to strengthen fisheries management and combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. It also includes targeted support for fishers’ associations, workforce development, and the introduction of new technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability.
A key focus of the initiative is ensuring that development is carried out responsibly. Environmental and social assessments have been undertaken to identify potential risks and impacts, with clear mitigation measures and management plans in place. These include labour management procedures, stakeholder engagement strategies, grievance mechanisms, and specific actions to address risks such as community health and safety and gender-based violence.
Stakeholder engagement is central to the program’s success. Government agencies, local communities, private sector partners, and development organisations are being actively consulted to ensure that project benefits are inclusive, locally supported, and aligned with national priorities.
As the project moves toward implementation, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming engagement activities. The VU PROP initiative represents a significant step forward in building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for Vanuatu’s fisheries and maritime sectors.
Vanuatu PROP Sexual Exploitation and Abuse / Sexual Harassment (SEA/SH) Action Plan – March 2026
Vanuatu PROP Appraisal Environmental and Social Commitment Plan – March 2026
Vanuatu PROP Stakeholder Engagement Plan P513428 – March 2026
Report on the Vanuatu Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program – March 2026
