South Erromango

Establishment and Development

Located in Unpongkor Village, Williams Bay, West Erromango, the South Erromango Area Council (AC) headquarters was originally built in 1995 as a community hall, known as the Chief Meeting Hall, for hosting meetings and functions.

In 2018, Honourable MP Tomker Netvunei initiated its renovation, which was funded by VCAP through the Government of the Republic of Vanuatu. The building was officially opened by the then Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Andrew Napuat.

Following its renovation, it became the area council headquarters with the introduction of decentralization and the appointment of the first Area Administrator (AA), Kenia, to South Erromango. The office has been vacant since the transfer of AA Kenia to Tanna, and a new AA is to be appointed soon.

Official Opening

The official opening of the renovated council building was a significant event, marked by the presence of Hon. Andrew Napuat, who emphasized the importance of local governance and community development.

Our Objectives

South Erromango Area Council has outlined a comprehensive work plan for the next 3-5 years, focusing on:

• Improving water supply and infrastructure.
• Developing community facilities.
• Enhancing financial and banking services.
• Upgrading educational and healthcare resources.

Community Overview

Population and Amenities

South Erromango is home to 1,300 residents. The area includes four primary schools, one secondary school, three aid posts, and one dispensary, which is soon to be upgraded to a health center.

Recent and Ongoing Projects

Unpongkor Projects

1. Water Gravity System - Work underway to improve water access.
2. Storage House - Quotations needed for construction.
3. Market House - Quotations needed for development.
4. Bank Building - Arrangements underway for establishment.

Tharu Projects

1. Pongkil Jetty - In progress, funded by Hon. MP Tomker Netvunei.
2. Sivnu Savings and Loan - Quotations needed for setup.
3. Storage Building at Pongkil Bay - Quotations needed for construction.

Unpang Projects

1. Community Hall - Quotations needed and seeking funding.

Antioch Projects

1. Water Source Development
2. Road Railing - Quotations needed and consultation with PWD.

Achievement Highlights

1. Healthcare Improvement - A nurse has been arranged to work at the main dispensary, and the facility has been upgraded with a brand new Isuzu vehicle donated by the government through the Ministry of Health.
2. Sea Wall Extension - Extension of the sea wall for better coastal protection.
3. Street Lighting - Installation of street lights for enhanced safety.
4. ICT Equipped Office - The area council office is now fully equipped with ICT technology, funded by UNDP.
5. Bank Building - Funded by Honorable Councilor in collaboration with Williams Bay Junior Secondary School.
6. Pongkil Jetty - Funded by Hon. MP Tomker Netvunei.
7. Pig Wire - Funded by Hon. MP.
8. Solar Freezer - Funded by Hon. MP.

Community Collaboration

Since taking office, my priority has been to strengthen the office capacity to facilitate community needs. The administration and communities work collaboratively, respecting each other and striving to achieve our collective goals.

Conclusion

South Erromango Area Council is dedicated to the sustainable growth and well-being of our community. We are proud of our accomplishments and committed to continuous improvement for the benefit of all residents.

For more information, to get involved in our projects, or to provide feedback, please contact us at [contact information].