Port Vila, Vanuatu - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji and the Government of Japan have further strengthened Vanuatu's border management capabilities with the handover of essential security equipment valued at US$120,000 to the Government of Vanuatu.

This latest initiative builds upon the successful establishment of the Japan Government-supported Integrated Border Management Project, which since 2021 has brought together key border management stakeholders in Vanuatu from National Security, Internal Affairs, Immigration, Health, Customs, and other responsible agencies.

Following comprehensive consultations with border agencies in June 2023, the project identified critical action points focusing on enhanced maritime security and strengthened point-of-entry controls. The implementation of these action points culminates in today's handover of security cameras and associated equipment, marking a significant step forward in border control and criminal risk mitigation.

The equipment package, delivered to Bauerfield International Airport, includes:

•    Advanced CCTV surveillance systems for enhanced border risk monitoring
•    Rehabilitation of the CCTV monitoring room

Speaking at today's handover ceremony, His Excellency Naohisa Okuda, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Vanuatu, said:

"Japan's vision for the Pacific is built on secure and well-managed borders throughout our region. I am proud to reiterate Japan's firm commitment to modernising border management systems across the Pacific, with today's handover of advanced security equipment to Vanuatu demonstrating our continued support for building stronger, more efficient border operations that benefit the entire region.”

Team Leader – Effective Governance and Inclusive Growth with UNDP Pacific, Rustam Pulatov, said:

“Thanks to the Government of Japan's generous support, we're seeing remarkable collaboration across Vanuatu's border agencies. This equipment handover is more than just technology - it represents the power of working together. From maritime security to airport operations, we're witnessing multiple agencies unite to create stronger, smarter borders that protect and facilitate the movement of people and goods.”

UNDP, together with project partner the International Organization or Migration (IOM), presented the final outcomes of the project at the handover ceremony.

Carl Adams, IOM Vanuatu Head of Office, said: 

“We believe these advancements will continue to bring positive results for Vanuatu, strengthening safe and regular migration and fostering better international cooperation. The success of this project shows what we can achieve when we work together with a shared goal.”

The equipment handover coincides with a crucial workshop on new Standard Operating Procedures for maritime security and safety, specifically addressing the operational procedures for the safety of cruise vessels. Approximately 14 officials from across the Ministry of Health, Customs, Cruise Tourism Office, Biosecurity, and Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority attended the workshop and discussed the importance of synchronising guidelines and operational procedure. This development is particularly significant for Vanuatu's tourism sector, which forms a vital part of the national economy.

UNDP's Integrated Border Management Project is implemented with support from the Government of Japan, IOM, and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, and has supported the Governments of Fiji, Palau, and Vanuatu on strengthening their border management capabilities.

For more information please contact:

Nick Turner, UNDP Pacific Office, Strategic Communications and Advocacy Specialist, nicholas.turner@undp.org