4 Jun 2018

Ambae evacuees will receive help from Vanuatu govt

3:26 pm on 4 June 2018
Vanuatu Emergency Medical Team's Dr Andy Ilo, (in vest) speaking with Ambae evacuee leaders.

Vanuatu Emergency Medical Team's Dr Andy Ilo, (in vest) speaking with Ambae evacuee leaders. Photo: Vanuatu EMT MoH

Plans to support people on Vanuatu's Ambae who want to relocate to the nearby island of Maewo are being finalised.

Ambae's volcano has been erupting since September, but activity increased in April with ash and acid rain ruining crops and contaminating water supplies.

The Daily Post newspaper reports the National Disaster Management Office as saying disaster assistance will wind up for the island at the end of July.

Those who relocate to Maewo will receive government assistance until the end of the year, to help them establish new gardens and crops.

Custom chiefs and the island's church leaders have welcomed the government decision saying it proves the government has listened to the people.