In March 2023, Category 4 tropical cyclone Judy hit Vanuatu’s shores, damaging roads, houses, and some of the six government hospitals. Less than 48 hours later, cyclone Kevin followed in its wake, leaving 80% of the Pacific country’s population affected in some way and creating $433 million in loss and destruction.
In the weeks and months following the cyclones, community health suffered as nutrition levels dropped due to destroyed crops, and basic health services couldn’t be accessed. Some of Vanuatu’s 83 islands can only be reached by boat, and certain communities can only be reached on foot. At the time, 5,600 women were pregnant, with 620 due 30 days following the cyclones.
“Access to the health centers would be difficult for them,” said Janet Leitangi, an Indigenous ni-Vanuatu retired nurse living in Vanuatu’s capital of Port Vila, adding that in addition, there was, and is, already a shortage of skilled birth attendants in the country and surrounding region.
About the author
Rebecca L. Root
Rebecca L. Root is a freelance reporter for Devex based in Bangkok. Previously senior associate & reporter, she produced news stories, video, and podcasts as well as partnership content. She has a background in finance, travel, and global development journalism and has written for a variety of publications while living and working in Bangkok, New York, London, and Barcelona.
