VANUATU

UNCDF has been at the forefront of driving positive change in Vanuatu, playing a vital role in the country's development journey. From 2008 until Vanuatu's graduation from LDC status in 2020, UNCDF spearheaded initiatives to enhance governance, improve service delivery, and strengthen local investment capacity.

The Pacific Financial Inclusion Programme (PFIP), which concluded in 2020, linked Pacific Islanders including Ni-Vanuatu to the formal financial sector by supporting financial service providers to innovate with products and services for mass market customers, supporting governments to create an enabling policy environment for financial innovation, and empowering consumers.

Today, building on the successes of PFIP and with a focus on leveraging digital technologies and innovation, UNCDF is spearheading several impactful initiatives such as the Pacific Insurance and Climate Adaptation Programme (PICAP), the Pacific Digital Economy Programme (PDEP), and the Digital Finance for Resilience Programme (DFS4Resilience).

UNCDF’s Pacific Insurance and Climate Adaptation Programme is strengthening financial resilience and preparedness of Ni-Vanuatu people against climate change and natural hazards. By working closely with public and private stakeholders, UNCDF is facilitating the development and implementation of innovative climate and disaster risk financing instruments and products including the piloting of a parametric insurance product in 2022.

UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme recognizes the immense potential of digital technologies in Vanuatu's progress. It aims to propel the country’s digital transformation by harnessing the power of connectivity, e-commerce, and digital entrepreneurship. By fostering digital literacy, supporting the growth of e-commerce platforms, and empowering entrepreneurs to leverage digital tools, UNCDF is driving inclusive economic growth and expanding opportunities for all Vanuatu citizens.

Recognizing the importance of digital finance as a means to enhance financial inclusion and build financial resilience, reduce poverty, and foster economic growth, UNCDF has been actively implementing the Digital Finance for Resilience Programme in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific regions including Vanuatu. Through partnerships with governments, financial institutions, and technology providers, the Programme strives to empower marginalized communities, particularly women, youth, and refugees, to overcome barriers to financial inclusion and improve their ability to withstand financial shocks and build sustainable livelihoods.