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Category: news

  • Pacific Leaders Unite in Honiara: Key Decisions from the 54th Pacific Islands Forum

    The 54th Pacific Islands Forum concluded in Honiara, focusing on climate change, regional security, and economic resilience. Leaders adopted key decisions including the 2050 Strategy, supported peacebuilding, and pledged to enhance digital transformation. New Zealand and French Polynesia will host future forums, ensuring ongoing collaboration and progress in the region.

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  • Bradley Wood: Keeping WWII Memories Alive

    Bradley Wood stands out as one of Luganville’s most dedicated builders and community leaders. Arriving in Vanuatu in 1987, he quickly built a reputation for hands-on craftsmanship and a sharp eye for detail. Brad launched his own construction company, took over and expanded Santo Hardware, and became the driving force behind the South Pacific WWII…

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  • Poida Calls for Action on Alcohol Abuse Before Social Media Bans

    Vanuatu’s football icon Moise Poida emphasizes the need to address alcohol abuse over regulating social media. He argues that banning Facebook won’t yield a healthier society, as alcohol leads to accidents, disturbances, and gang issues. Poida urges leaders to implement measures to control alcohol consumption and support community safety before focusing on online restrictions.

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  • FruitFest 2025: Where Agriculture Meets Innovation at Fatumaru Bay

    FruitFest 2025, set for October 8-10 in Vanuatu, will serve as a key platform for AgriTourism, AgriHealth, and AgriBusiness innovations, aligned with national development goals. Major sponsors include government and international partners. The festival aims to address urgent child malnutrition while promoting local agriculture and sustainable tourism through comprehensive community engagement and technology integration.

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  • FruitFest 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions

    Hey fam! FruitFest 2025 is around the corner and everyone’s curious about the 3 days of music, food, and fruity fun at Fatumaru Bay! We know you’ve got plenty of questions—like when the first beats drop, where to grab that killer smoothie, and which Pacific stars will light up the stage. Don’t stress, we’ve packed…

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  • FruitFest 2025: Vanuatu’s Biggest Celebration of Fruits, Culture & Music

    FruitFest 2025 will take place in Port Vila, Vanuatu, from 8–10 October, celebrating tropical fruits, culture, and music. This festival highlights local agriculture, offers educational sessions, competitions, and features performances by regional and local talent. It promotes health-conscious living and supports local farmers while providing a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.

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  • Vatururu Vibez Drops First Spotify Release – 4 Fresh Tracks for the World

    Vatururu Vibez, a reggae fusion band from Vanuatu, has released their first four tracks on Spotify. The songs are AMBAE, CARRY ON, VATURURU SONG, and BOLO KAIORO, each showcasing island life and unity. These tracks will soon be available on additional platforms, providing global access to their uplifting sound.

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  • Nakamal Agreement Delayed Amid Political and China Tensions

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Vanuatu to advance the Nakamal Agreement, valued at A$500 million, focusing on maritime security, labor mobility, infrastructure, and strategic cooperation. Delays stem from Vanuatu’s political concerns and China’s influence. Albanese emphasized ongoing discussions, highlighting the importance of local sovereignty and partnership in Pacific relations.

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  • Vanuatu Boosts First Political Advisor Salaries: Decoding Order No. 184

    In September 2025, Vanuatu’s Official Salaries Amendment Order No. 184 introduced a tiered salary system for political advisors, reflecting a strategic response to talent retention, geopolitical pressures, and increasing workloads. This move signals a commitment to professionalize government expertise, enhance governance capacity, and reassess consulting frameworks to ensure equitable compensation across the sector.

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  • Fiji Declares All Crypto Services Illegal – But Should Digital Assets Be Blamed?

    The Reserve Bank of Fiji has banned all cryptocurrency activities, effective August 30, 2025, with severe penalties for violations. In contrast, Vanuatu has embraced digital assets through its Digital Assets Act. The focus should be on addressing misuse rather than banning technology, promoting dialogue around innovation and digital literacy in the Pacific.

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