Government representatives meet to begin preparations for the After-Action Review of recovery efforts following the December 2024 earthquake.
Government agencies met on 30 September 2026 to begin preparations for the After-Action Review (AAR) of recovery efforts following the 17 December 2024 Efate–Port Vila earthquake.
The review event is scheduled for 30 November–4 December 2026. It will assess progress, examine challenges and capture lessons to inform ongoing recovery and longer-term reconstruction.
Following the earthquake, the Council of Ministers declared a 24-month Disaster Recovery Process period under the Disaster Recovery and Resilience Act No. 17 of 2024. The period will conclude in December 2026.
National recovery is coordinated under the Prime Minister’s Office through the Department of Strategic Policy, Planning and Aid Coordination (DSPPAC) and its Disaster Recovery Coordination Unit (DRCU), with oversight from the National Recovery Committee.
DUAP Director Jeffrey Kaitip serves as Vice Chair of the AAR Organising Committee. He is also a Recovery Manager appointed under Order No. 218 of 2024, made under the Disaster Recovery and Resilience Act No. 17 of 2024. His participation brings DUAP’s planning and reconstruction responsibilities into the review of recovery progress and lessons.
The AAR will draw on experiences from government agencies and recovery partners. Opportunities for public input will also form part of the review, allowing people to share their experiences and perspectives. Details on how to contribute will be announced as preparations progress.
DUAP is participating in the preparations and supporting communications and participant information arrangements. The review provides an opportunity to capture lessons relevant to ongoing work, including the Port Vila CBD earthquake recovery and rebuild programme.
The end of the designated recovery period marks a milestone, while longer-term reconstruction continues. Findings from the AAR will help strengthen future recovery arrangements and the shared focus on building back better.