Residents and students on Hiu Island are expected to benefit from improved access to safe drinking water following the handover of a new 3,000-litre rainwater storage tank.

The installation is designed to collect and store rainwater for drinking and cooking, strengthening water security for one of Vanuatu’s northernmost island communities.

The support was delivered through a partnership involving the British High Commission and humanitarian organisation Respond Global during the ongoing Helper-1 outreach mission in Torba Province.

Director of Helper-1 Operations, Dr Basil Leodoro, said several specialist teams are travelling onboard the vessel to provide a range of services to communities across the province.

Dr Leodoro said the mission has included medical care, health outreach activities and civic education programs. He added that the water project at Robin School was made possible through collaboration between Respond Global’s WASH team and Karl Brent, husband of the British High Commissioner.

“We provided medical services, health services and civic education. We also witnessed the handover of a new 3,000-litre water tank for Robin School through Rotary and Karl Brent, who partnered with Respond Global’s WASH team to establish the system.” 

Secretary General of Torba Province, Albert Rudley, welcomed the assistance and said the completed system would provide long-term benefits for both students and surrounding households.

Mr Rudley said the technical expertise provided by the WASH team was crucial in ensuring the tank and water collection system were properly installed and connected.

“Once water is collected and stored, it will provide safe drinking water for the children and nearby communities.” 

The Helper-1 mission continues its visit across islands in Torba Province this week.

Representatives from the British High Commission, Vanuatu National Youth Council, Ombudsman Office, Transparency Vanuatu, along with doctors and nurses, are taking part in outreach activities aimed at supporting communities through a range of essential services.