Historic Ocean Act Passed into Law

 

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The Government of the Republic of Vanuatu passed the Ocean Act in November 2025, a landmark piece of legislation that formally restores authority over coastal waters to the chiefs and coastal villages who depend on ocean resources most. 

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The Ocean Act calls for the development of a national roadmap for Vanuatu’s ocean, ensuring every citizen has a voice in how marine resources are managed. It also aligns with regional and global sustainable ocean management goals, including achieving its National Sustainable Development Plan goals, opening pathways to partnerships, investment, and international finance.

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[Learn More About the Ocean Act]

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Science Report Shared Critical Reef Data with Communities
 

Data from Vanuatu’s largest ever coral reef study was shared back with the government and the public, providing data from coastal habitats and contributing insights into the overall health of Vanuatu's marine ecosystems.

This information will support traditional governance and decision-making for coastal planning and establish a baseline to detect changes in Vanuatu’s coral reefs and the effectiveness of ocean management initiatives. It will also enhance ongoing research and monitoring efforts and be used to guide Vanuatu’s Marine Spatial Planning Process.

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[Read the Final Science Report]

National Geographic & Blue Prosperity Vanuatu Expedition Studied Marine Ecosystems Across the Country

 

The Blue Prosperity Vanuatu (BPV) team was proud to support the National Geographic Pristine Seas expedition alongside the Government of Vanuatu. Throughout the expedition, local and international scientists and filmmakers studied coral reefs, explored deep-sea ecosystems, and documented Vanuatu’s extraordinary marine biodiversity. The data collected will strengthen national ocean science, inform marine management decisions, and support Vanuatu’s goals to sustainably manage 100% of its ocean while advancing long-term conservation and prosperity through BPV.

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[Watch the Video]

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The Blue Prosperity Vanuatu Team Welcomed New Members

This year, the Ocean Office grew and played a vital role in advancing the ambitious work of BPV. Under the leadership of Country Manager Jeremie Kalavata, nationwide presence was strengthened with Virana Bogiri as Program Coordinator, Ellian Bangtor as Communications Coordinator, Patterson Dini as Torba Provincial Coordinator, and Trevor Trief as Blue Economy Manager. Their expertise and dedication are essential to supporting sustainable ocean management across Vanuatu.

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New Ministry Emphasises Commitment to Ocean Management
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This year, Vanuatu demonstrated its commitment to ocean stewardship with the announcement of the new Ministry of Maritime, Oceans, and Fisheries, which is focused on managing and leveraging the country's vast marine resources to boost the economy and create opportunities for Ni-Vanuatu. 

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This new department, with Toney Tevi serving as Director, reflects Vanuatu's growing recognition of the ocean as central to our nation's future prosperity.

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Renewed Agreement Strengthened Partnership​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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In April 2025, Prime Minister Hon. Jotham Napat & Founder and Chairman of the Waitt Institute and Foundation, Mr. Ted Waitt signed an updated agreement recommitting to the strong partnership between the Waitt Institute and Government of Vanuatu: Blue Prosperity Vanuatu.

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Ocean Use Survey Launched in Emau

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The Government of Vanuatu, through BPV, has launched the pilot Ocean Use Survey (OUS) in Emau as part of a nationwide effort to strengthen sustainable ocean management and implement the newly enacted Vanuatu Ocean Act. 

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The Ocean Use Survey gathers information from community members about how they use, value, and depend on the ocean, including areas important for fishing, cultural practices, transportation, tourism, recreation, and livelihoods. 

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Looking Ahead

As we move into the new year, we remain committed to advancing sustainable ocean management that includes establishing a Blue Economy road map for Vanuatu which will strengthen resilience, preserve our marine ecosystems, and ensure lasting prosperity for all Ni-Vanuatu. Together, we are charting a course toward healthy oceans and thriving communities for generations to come.