A personal letter from the MP highlighting recent achievements, key focus areas, and future goals for Tanna and Vanuatu
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS & MILESTONES
Key achievements and milestones showcase progress in community development, infrastructure improvement, economic growth, and enhanced public services for Tanna.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Community feedback, stories, and testimonies on issues that matter most to the people of Tanna and how MP Napuat is addressing them.
SUPPORTING AGRICULTURE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Agriculture is central to Tanna’s economy Andrew has championed initiatives supporting sustainable farming practices and improving market access for local farmers
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INVESTING IN EDUCATION AND YOUTH
Andrew is dedicated to empowering Tanna’s youth by improving school infrastructure and expanding vocational training and scholarship opportunities.
Health and wellbeing are top priorities for Andrew, with efforts focused on mobile health clinics and improving maternal healthcare services.
Andrew has championed key infrastructure projects, including road rehabilitation and expanding the electrical grid to improve connectivity and services
Andrew supports cultural preservation and environmental protection for Tanna's future
THE PATH FORWARD: PRIORITIES FOR THE FUTURE GET INVOLVED: HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR MP
Andrew Napuat’s future priorities focus on decentralization, empowering chiefs and churches, enhancing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities across Tanna.
Andrew encourages constituents to stay involved through community meetings, social media, his website, or direct contact with his office
Napuat
Meet the team
CHAIRMAN OF TANNA
AARON LOEB
WEST CHAIRMAN
JONATHAN PATTERSON
EAST CHAIRMAN
OLIVIA WILSON
SOUTH CHAIRMAN
DANIEL GALLEGO
CENTRAL CHAIRMAN
MATT ZHANG
HELENE PAQUET
NORTH CHAIRMAN
SHAWN GARCIA
NOAH SCHUMACHER
INFRASTRUCTURE TEAM
CAHAYA DEWI
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KIM CHUN HEI
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BRIGITTE SCHWARTZ
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CHAD GIBBONS
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Message from Andrew Napuat, Member of Parliament for Tanna
Dear fellow citizens of Tanna, It is with great pride and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you in this special issue of our community magazine Serving as your representative in Parliament has been both an honor and a privilege, and I remain committed to working hard for the progress and well-being of every person in our beautiful island.
Over the past year, I have focused on strengthening the ties between our local needs and national development goals. Our priorities in Tanna are clear: improving infrastructure, supporting sustainable agriculture, enhancing educational opportunities for our youth, and preserving our rich cultural heritage
I know that many of you face challenges that require both immediate action and long-term solutions Together, we can address these concerns through active collaboration and mutual support I want to assure you that my office is always open, and I encourage each of you to come forward with your ideas, concerns, and suggestions Your voices matter, and your input guides the decisions I make on your behalf
In the coming months, I will be working alongside government partners, local leaders, and community organizations to implement projects that will bring tangible benefits to Tanna. From better roads to improved health services and greater economic opportunities, I remain steadfast in my commitment to ensure that Tanna continues to thrive.
Let us all continue to work together to build a stronger, more prosperous future for our children and generations to come. We have the resources, the talent, and the spirit of unity to create the positive changes we want to see in our island
Thank you for your trust, your support, and your unwavering dedication to our shared vision I am proud to serve you, and I look forward to the journey ahead
Warm regards,
Editor-in-Chief
'Wokabaot Blong
Andrew Napuat'
e y A c h i e v e m e n t s a n d M i l e s t o n e s
These milestones reflect Andrew Napuat’s dedication to improving the governance, infrastructure, education, and social services in Vanuatu, alongside his contributions to the nation’s development on the international stage. His leadership within the parliament and his roles in various ministries have made him an influential figure in Vanuatu's political landscape
Political Career and Key Achievements
Entry into Politics
Elected to the 11th Parliament (2016)
Andrew Napuat was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Tanna constituency during the 2016 Snap General Election
Ministerial Appointments
Minister of Internal Affairs (2017)
On 19th December 2017, Prime Minister Charlot Salwai appointed Andrew Napuat as the Minister of Internal Affairs.
Promotion to Minister of Internal Affairs (2024)
Leadership Roles in Parliament
Opposition Whip (2020–2022)
Napuat served as the Opposition Whip, helping to coordinate opposition members in the Parliament and playing an instrumental role in maintaining party unity and strategy
Fourth Deputy Speaker (2022–2023)
First Deputy Speaker (2023–2024)
Public Service and Governance
Chief Executive Officer to the President (2011–2014)
National Advisory Board Secretariat for Climate Change (2015)
KFirst Political Advisor to the Ministry of Lands (2015)
Humanitarian and Development Work
Executive Officer, Ministry of Justice and Community Services (2009)
Senior Project Officer, Youth Outreach Program (2008)
Training Consultant for VATET Project (2006)
Educational Contributions
Promotion of Rural Education and Local Capacity Building
Efforts to Improve Vanuatu’s School Infrastructure
Community Engagement and Social Work
Community Service and Advocacy
Sports Development in Vanuatu
Infrastructure and Economic Development
Promoted Infrastructure Development
Support for Gender-Inclusive Economic Projects
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS IN POLITICAL LEADERSHIP
Strengthening Governance and Decentralization
Through his role in the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Napuat has advanced decentralization initiatives, ensuring that government services reach rural and remote areas effectively.
Climate Change and Rural Development
As a member of the National Advisory Board for Climate Change and in his other public service roles, Napuat has worked on policies to address the impacts of climate change, particularly on rural communities, and has contributed to climate change resilience strategies for the country.
Leading the front
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY VANUATU MOBILE
FORCE
Hon. Andrew Napuat, during his tenure as Minister of Internal Affairs, engages with a commander of the Vanuatu Mobile Force during a training session in the field Wearing the uniform as a gesture of solidarity, MP Napuat demonstrated his deep respect and support for the nation’s security forces, acknowledging their vital role in safeguarding Vanuatu’s peace and sovereignty
STEERING TOWARDS PROGRESS, THIS COLLABORATION PAVES THE WAY FOR ENHANCED MARITIME SERVICES, SUSTAINABLE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, AND IMPROVED INFRASTRUCTURE, BENEFITING TANNA’S OCEAN-RELIANT COMMUNITIES.
Andrew Solomon Napuat has spearheaded numerous community development projects on Tanna Island, focusing on infrastructure improvement, youth and women empowerment, and strengthening local governance. Key initiatives include road rehabilitation, water and sanitation upgrades, vocational training, and supporting local leadership through village councils and traditional chiefs. His efforts also prioritize social welfare, disaster resilience, and community engagement, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life and building a more sustainable and inclusive future for Tanna’s people
ANDREW NAPUAT OFFICIALLY LAUNCHING THE NUSUMETU AND TIPINIME MANAGEMENT PLAN, A MILESTONE IN COMMUNITY-LED CONSERVATION EFFORTS ON TANNA ISLAND
Andrew Napuat has led several community development projects across Tanna, including road rehabilitation in villages like Enapkasu, Enalpat, and Hebron, rural electrification in Imafin, Eniu, and Lounalang, and school infrastructure upgrades He has championed mobile health clinics to improve healthcare access, supported water supply initiatives for clean drinking water, and prioritized sustainable agriculture programs to boost local livelihoods in villages such as Green Hill Additionally, Andrew has actively promoted communityled conservation projects, like the Nusumetu and Tipinime Management Plan, to protect Tanna's natural and cultural heritage for future generations
&
Establishing community-led conservation areas for biodiversity preservation, supported by the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act
Rural Electrification Program
Solar Lights for Nakamals – The introduction of solar lights to Nakamals, which are sacred spaces used for important community activities, including meetings and kava drinking ceremonies with chiefs
3 Road Rehabilitation Projects
JCB clearance works in Enapkasu, Enalpat, and Hebron - Improve roads, connecting communities to thcare, education, and creating local
7
8
ural Training Initiatives
mmunity, Iasu Iauiap - Providing ools and knowledge for sustainable ices and improving crop yields
ealth Clinics
na at Lounamilo - Delivering essential rvices to remote villages, focusing on ild health with Bridging Health nfrastructure Upgrades Lounalang, and Green Hill g and renovating classrooms, providing d supporting vocational training youth empowerment.
Water Supply and Sanitation Projects
Ipaitarafa, Itapua, Lounapaiu, Lamakaun, Loukatai, Imafin, Laketam, Itongo, Lawithal, and Central Tanna - Installing water catchments and sanitation systems to improve hygiene and access to clean water
Community Halls and Gathering Spaces
Building multipurpose centers for community meetings, cultural events, and emergency response coordination
9 Disaster Resilience Programs
Educating communities on disaster preparedness and response strategies, including the construction of cyclone shelters
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Women’s Empowerment Initiatives
Supporting women-led projects and market access programs through partnerships with organizations like UN Women Initiatives such as the Naka Mama’s Saving Scheme (9 associations) and donations of iron roofing for market houses
PHOTOGRAPH SHOWING KAVA RESTOCKING ON TANNA
THE 10 MAIN CONTRIBUTIONS BY ANDREW SOLOMON NAPUAT ON AGRICULTURE IN TANNA
1
Facilitating Agricultural Training Programs in Tanna – Initiating educational programs to improve farming techniques and boost productivity
2
Promotion of Sustainable Agricultural Practices
– Advocating for eco-friendly farming methods to protect Tanna's land and environment
3
Development of Agricultural Infrastructure –Enhancing irrigation systems, roads, and storage facilities to support local farmers
4
Supporting Agricultural Cooperatives –Encouraging collective farming efforts to improve market access and strengthen rural communities
5
Climate-Smart Agriculture – Promoting practices that increase resilience to climate change and improve food security
6
Building Capacity for Agricultural Research –Establishing research initiatives to support sustainable farming practices in Tanna
7
Expanding Agricultural Export Potential –
Supporting the development of export markets for Tanna’s agricultural products
8
Youth Involvement in Agriculture – Encouraging young people to engage in farming as a sustainable livelihood
9
Support for Small-Scale Farmers – Providing resources, training, and financial assistance to empower smallholder farmers in Tanna
10
Promoting Organic Farming – Leading efforts to expand organic farming practices to enhance food quality and market competitiveness
SUPPORTING AGRICULTURE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
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Road Development and Community Connectivity
MINISTER NAPUAT'S ENGAGEMENT WITH REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEADERS
Meeting Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia in 2019 in
Meeting with Minister of Public Security of China, Councilor Wang Xiaohong in 2024 in Fujian P i f Chi
Meeting with Alex Hawke - Assistant Defence Minister and Minister for International D l t d th
Meeting with Senator Linda Reynolds - Minister
Having Dinner with Fiji Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama
Meeting with President of Israel, Reuven Rivlin
Vanuatu
Investing in Education and Youth:
MP Andrew Napuat is dedicated to investing in education and empowering Vanuatu’s youth to shape a prosperous future By improving school infrastructure, introducing vocational training programs, and fostering leadership opportunities, he ensures that young Ni-Vanuatu gain the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various sectors. These efforts aim to reduce youth unemployment, enhance community engagement, and contribute to the nation’s sustainable growth. With a focus on education and youth empowerment, Minister Napuat is helping build a brighter, more resilient future for Vanuatu.
In 2026/17 MP Andrew Napuat spent over 1 million Vatu to support all students across Tanna Island, enhancing educational access for youth
Andrew Napuat donated 10 laptops to Fetukai School This generous contribution aims to support the school’s efforts in improving digital literacy and providing students with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world
In 2019, Andrew Napuat took significant action to ensure the smooth operation of Eniu Primary School by sorting out the outstanding payments for the teachers. This effort helped resolve financial challenges, allowing the school to continue functioning and providing quality education to the students.
2016: Hon Andrew Napuat invested more than 2 million Vatu to cover school fees for students across Tanna Island, ensuring education accessibility for all
2017: Hon Napuat established Naka FC, a youth football club that progressed to the Port Vila Football Association's Premier Division, offering young people a platform for sports development
2019: Napuat sorted outstanding payments for teachers at Eniu Primary School, ensuring the school could operate smoothly and continue educating students
2019: Hon. Napuat supports agricultural training programs to equip young people with sustainable farming practices, empowering them with skills for future success.
2020: In a bid to enhance learning resources, he donated 10 laptops to Fetukai School to support students' education and digital literacy.
2024: Continues to prioritize youth development through infrastructure projects, such as upgrading school facilities, and expanding opportunities for education and vocational training.
Established in 2017 by Andrew Solomon Napuat, has worked its way up the ladder to compete in the Port Vila Football Association Premier Division. Empowering Youth, Building Futures: Investing in Tomorrow's Leaders
NAKA FC
Supporting Tanna's Future:
ANDREW NAPUAT EMPOWERING ATHLETES FOR THE SOUTH PACIFIC GAMES
Andrew Napuat has been a steadfast supporter of Tanna’s future, investing in both education and youth development By funding school fees, donating resources like laptops, and supporting local athletes, he has helped open doors for young people on Tanna Island His commitment to fostering opportunities for education and sports not only empowers the next generation but also strengthens the community as a whole, ensuring a brighter future for the island’s youth
Through his support for education, leadership training, and community initiatives, he empowers the youth to take on roles of responsibility and drive positive change.
HON ANDREW NAPUAT DONATES 300,000 VATU TO SUPPORT THE SHIPPING OF ESSENTIAL MEDICAL SUPPLIES TO TANNA ISLAND, ENSURING BETTER HEALTHCARE ACCESS FOR REMOTE COMMUNITIES.
HEALTHCARE ADVANCEMENTS ON TANNA
Healthcare in Tanna Island has seen significant improvements through the efforts of Hon. Andrew Napuat and various local initiatives With limited access to medical facilities in remote areas, Napuat has prioritized the delivery of essential healthcare services by supporting mobile health clinics, constructing better infrastructure, and facilitating the shipment of medical supplies Partnerships with organizations like Bridging Health have been instrumental in ensuring that the island's communities have access to vital healthcare resources, improving overall well-being, particularly for maternal and child health.
These ongoing efforts reflect a strong commitment to enhancing healthcare access and quality for the people of Tanna
Andrew Solomon Napuat aims to continue supporting mobile health clinics, improving maternal and child healthcare, and increasing access to essential medical supplies Additionally, plans are in place to address health-related challenges like water sanitation, hygiene education, and disaster response preparedness, with a vision to build a healthier, more resilient Tanna for future generations.
Building a Healthier Future for Tanna
ANDREW NAPUAT'S DONATION OF POTS TO SEVERAL COMMUNITIES ON TANNA ISLAND IS AIMED AT IMPROVING BOTH COOKING AND HYGIENE PRACTICES THESE POTS WILL HELP LOCAL FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES PREPARE FOOD MORE EFFICIENTLY AND HYGIENICALLY, CONTRIBUTING TO BETTER HEALTH AND SANITATION.
“Citizens have the constitutional right to speak freely about the vaccine.”
Member of Parliament (MP) for Tanna, Andrew Napuat, called on health authorities to provide more transparency regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. In a video posted on October 17, 2021, Napuat voiced concerns about the lack of information surrounding the vaccine, stressing the importance of citizens' right to be informed He raised questions to the Ministry of Health (MoH) about the vaccine's contents, side effects, and awareness plans, but was dissatisfied with the responses Even during parliamentary discussions, Napuat sought an extension of the vaccination rollout to allow more time for information gathering
Despite government support for the vaccine indemnity decision, Napuat argued that Vanuatu citizens should be fully informed before being asked to take the vaccine He also criticized a recent Council of Ministers (COM) decision, which he felt threatened freedom of expression by discouraging leaders and citizens from speaking out against the vaccine He called for the government to respect citizens' constitutional rights to free speech and assembly
Napuat's video, watched over 9,800 times, sparked significant public debate He and other MPs have continued to seek answers, sending official requests for information to health officials While some responses have been received, Napuat emphasized the need for continued transparency and access to full details about the vaccine before further steps are taken
Watch the video in Tanna dialect
Andrew Napuat donated iron roofing to communities on Tanna Island, recognizing that shelter is a fundamental human need This initiative aimed to improve living conditions for families by providing durable roofing materials to enhance the safety and comfort of their homes
Napuat’s donation reflects his ongoing commitment to the well-being of the people in his constituency, ensuring that they have access to better, more resilient shelter options This is part of his broader efforts to support sustainable development and improve quality of life in Tanna
INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS
In addition to road improvements, Napuat has been instrumental in expanding the electrical grid, bringing power to more households, schools, and clinics. His work on rural electrification, particularly the introduction of solar lighting in remote communities and the extension of the grid, has had a significant impact on daily life This advancement not only improves the standard of living by providing reliable electricity but also supports businesses, educational institutions, and healthcare services, which all require a stable power supply to operate effectively
Napuat's infrastructure projects are a reflection of his vision for a more connected and sustainable Tanna.
Revolutionizing Access to Remote Communities and Essential Services
Andrew Napuat’s use of a JCB (a type of heavy machinery) has been a game-changer for road rehabilitation projects on Tanna Island. The JCB has been deployed to clear and grade roads, improving access to isolated communities and facilitating better transportation of goods, services, and people By investing in this equipment, Napuat has been able to expedite road repairs and construction, ensuring that even the most remote areas are no longer cut off from essential services like healthcare, education, and markets.
Andrew Napuat's Impact with JCB Road Rehabilitation
CULTURAL PRESERVATION & ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
“This friendship between TAFEA and SHEFA has not only strengthened our people but also created a foundation for collaboration with other provinces. Together, we can address the challenges facing not only TAFEA but the entire nation.”
Andrew Napuat has been a strong advocate for the preservation of Tanna's rich cultural heritage and the sustainable management of its natural resources Recognizing the importance of maintaining traditional practices while embracing modern development, he has supported initiatives that balance cultural preservation with environmental sustainability.
In addition, his support for projects like the Nusumetu and Tipinime Management Plan reflects his commitment to ensuring that development does not come at the expense of Tanna's unique cultural and environmental landscapes These initiatives aim to safeguard biodiversity, promote eco-friendly tourism, and preserve traditional knowledge and practices, ensuring that future generations can enjoy both cultural and environmental richness.
The Path Forward: Priorities for the Future
Looking ahead, Andrew Napuat remains committed to driving meaningful change in Tanna through continued investment in key areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. With a focus on empowering local communities, his priorities include expanding access to education and vocational training, supporting economic opportunities for youth, and ensuring sustainable development that preserves Tanna’s cultural heritage.
www.andrewnapuat.com
Andrew Solomon Napuat'sVision for Decentralized Governance andCommunity Growth
Andrew Napuat envisions a future where the communities of Tanna Island are empowered through a decentralized governance structure that gives local people greater control over their development. By promoting decentralization, Napuat aims to ensure that decisions are made closer to the people, allowing for a more tailored approach to addressing the unique needs of each community. This structure will encourage active participation from local leaders and residents, ensuring that projects and initiatives reflect the true priorities of the people of Tanna.
In the future, Napuat plans to strengthen local governance by investing in capacity-building initiatives for community leaders, enhancing their ability to manage resources, plan for sustainable development, and oversee key infrastructure projects. This approach will create a more inclusive and self-sufficient society, where the people of Tanna can drive their own development and shape their future. Empowering local communities through decentralization is central to Napuat's long-term vision of a more resilient, prosperous, and connected Tanna.
Furthermore, the future plans for Tanna also involve deepening the role of local institutions, particularly the church and traditional chiefs, in supporting community-driven initiatives. These influential figures will play a critical role in fostering unity and guiding development that aligns with both cultural values and contemporary needs. Together, they will work to preserve Tanna's heritage while driving forward economic, social, and environmental progress, ensuring a balanced approach to growth and sustainability.
TheRoleofWomenin Decentralization
Andrew Napuat's future plans for women on Tanna Island include the construction of a dedicated building to support women ' s empowermentinitiatives.Thisfacilitywillserveasahubforwomen togather,shareknowledge,andengageinskill-buildingactivities It will provide space for various programs focused on entrepreneurship, education, and personal development, helping women gain independence and create new opportunities for themselvesandtheirfamilies Thebuildingwillalsoserveasacenter for women ' s health services, counseling, and community meetings, fosteringastrongnetworkofsupportforwomenacrosstheisland
Partneringwith Chiefsfor Sustainable Growth
Andrew Napuat’s vision for Tanna Islandiscenteredonempowering its communities through a combination of cultural preservation, modern development, and sustainable practices He envisions a Tanna where traditional leadership and moderngovernanceworkhandin hand to provide better opportunities for all its people By investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, Napuat seeks to ensure that the people of Tanna are not only connected to the rest of Vanuatu but also equipped with the tools theyneedtothrive
TheRoleofthe Churchin Community Development
Also, Andrew Napuat’s vision for Tanna emphasizes the crucial roleofthechurchinshapingthe community’s future He recognizes the church not only as a spiritual institution but also as a key partner in fostering social cohesion, promoting moral values, and guiding community development
Through collaboration with church leaders, Napuat aims to strengthen Tanna’s cultural fabric, providing support for local initiatives that uplift communities and ensure sustainableprogress Byworking together, the church, along with local leaders, can inspire positive change, offer guidance, and foster unity for a better futureonTannaIsland
Andrew Solomon Napuat believes that open communication is vital in creating a responsive and effective government for Tanna. Through these channels, you can actively participate in shaping the future of your community.
