South Tanna
Establishment and Development
The South Tanna Area Council building is located in Iararo. The ground-breaking ceremony for the new South Tanna Area Council office site in Kwamera was conducted by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr. Johnny K. Rasou. This project is funded by the UNDP Climate Change Fund with VCAP 2 as the implementing partner.
Official Opening
The South Tanna Area Council office site was officially inaugurated by Mr. Johnny K. Rasou, highlighting the collaboration between the government and international organizations in fostering local development.
Our Objectives
South Tanna Area Council has outlined key objectives for the next 3-5 years, focusing on:
- Strengthening local governance through the development of Village Development Committees.
- Enhancing healthcare services and facilities.
- Improving educational infrastructure and resources.
- Promoting sustainable development and climate resilience.
Community Overview
Population and Amenities
South Tanna is home to 3,267 residents across 10 tribes and 23 communities. The area council is supported by one Area Administrator and one Community Liaison Officer. The existing area council building will serve as a sub-office while the new office is under negotiation and construction at the new site in Kwamera, funded by VCAP 2.
Education
Education in South Tanna, despite being one of the lowest academically, is improving. Schools often serve as evacuation centers and storage during disasters. Current schools include:
- Ienkwaneneai: Kindy
- Ikakahak: Kindy, Class 1-6 (French)
- Meirawang: Kindy
- Ierwareng: Kindy
- Iteku: Kindy, Class 1-6 (French)
- Kwamera: Kindy, Class 1-6, Year 7-9 (English)
- Kwaraka: Kindy
- Kwansiwi: Kindy, Class 1-3 (English)
- Imarkak: Kindy
- Imaki: Kindy, Class 1-6, Year 7-10 (French)
- High Hill: Kindy
- Iapkapen: Kindy
Health
Health services in South Tanna face significant challenges, with a population of over 3,000 accessing only one main dispensary and three aid posts. Distance to the nearest dispensary ranges from 100 meters to 10 kilometers.
- Imaki: Dispensary (Basic services including maternity)
- Kwaraka: Aid post (Basic services)
- Kwamera: Aid post (Basic services)
- Ierwareng: Aid post (Basic services)
- Ikakahak: Aid post (Currently under construction)
Recent and Ongoing Projects
Governance Structure
The South Tanna Area Council is strengthening governance by developing Village Development Committees within each of the 10 tribes.
Ikakahak Aid Post
Developing the Ikakahak Aid Post is a priority project currently in progress and expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
New Area Council Office
The relocation of the area council office from Iararo to Kwamera is underway, with funding from the Vanuatu government through UNDP and VCAP 2. Kwamera has been identified as the central hub for future developments, with the office expected to be completed by 2024.
Other Achievements
- Healthcare Improvements: Arranging a nurse for the main dispensary and upgrading facilities.
- Transport: Donation of a brand new Isuzu vehicle by the government through the Ministry of Health.
- Infrastructure: Extension of sea walls and installation of street lights.
- Technology: Area council office equipped with ICT technology funded by UNDP.
- Bank Building: Funded by Honorable Councilor in collaboration with Williams Bay Junior Secondary School.
- Pongkil Jetty: Funded by Honorable MP.
- Pig Wire: Funded by Honorable MP.
- Solar Freezer: Funded by Honorable MP.
Community Collaboration
Our administration is dedicated to strengthening office capacity to effectively facilitate community needs. We work collaboratively with local communities, respecting and supporting each other to achieve shared goals.
Conclusion
South Tanna Area Council is committed to the sustainable growth and well-being of our community. We are proud of our achievements and are dedicated 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].