02/06/2025
Vanuatu Australia Health Partnership (VAHP) support completion of Village Aid Post CHAG project
The Pikiyer Aid Post community in Northwest Malekula welcomed the completion and handover of new VIP toilets, benefitting ten families for the first time on 22 May 2025.
The beneficiaries include widows, elderly residents, and people with special needs.
Village Health Worker (VHW) Coordinator Wenly Sam said the Pikiyer project is one of five Community Health and Gender (CHAG) projects supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO) since 2019.
The five target locations include three sites in Malekula, one in Southeast Ambrym, and another at Paama Aid Post. Although materials have been secured, delays occurred due to the absence of a full-time programme officer.
With assistance from the Vanuatu-Australia Health Partnership (VAHP), the Pikiyer project was able to proceed to completion.
“Some other aid post communities have completed around 50% of their work, but we are still seeking funds to finish the rest across all five sites,” Sam said.
He explained that VAHP provides funding annually, and each year he decides how best to use it to benefit the communities involved.
“This year, I directed the funds to construct VIP toilets, recognizing the urgent need in Pikiyer. Next year, we may be able to assist another community with a similar project,” he said.
The project received backing from local leaders, the community, the aid post committee, and the VHW team.
Sam also encouraged other area administrators, councilors, and political leaders to approach aid posts if they are interested in similar efforts for their own communities.
“Funding might not reach every community for the same purpose, but with support from aid post committees and existing resources, we will continue to help as many MALAMPA communities as possible.”
He also hopes more partners will come forward in future to support outstanding projects across the other locations.
He also acknowledge Malampa Environmental Health Unit, Malampa Public Health management and community for the strong support.
by DP
