Wilco Hardware has secured a VT67million contract to supply and deliver materials for local area councils’ climate-proofing field officers at the sites of the Vanuatu Coastal Adaptation Project (VCAP) Phase 2.

The Minister of Climate Change and Acting Deputy Prime Minister, Ralph Regenvanu, signed the contract alongside a representative from Wilco,Jeneth Bakokoto of Wilco.

The project, spearheaded by the Department of Climate Change, aims to improve the resilience of vulnerable areas and communities to the impacts of climate change through the conservation of biodiversity and natural ecosystems.

The implementation of integrated approaches will sustain livelihoods, food production, and ensure biodiversity conservation while reducing land degradation by building on the lessons learned from the first phase project.

The scope of the project includes the construction of six area councils located in the six provinces of the country, specifically in South Epi (Shefa Province), South of Maewo (Penama Province), West Coast of Santo (Sanma Province), West of Ambrym (Malampa Province), Mission Bay – Futuna, and South Tanna (Tafea Province).

Minister Regenvanu expressed enthusiasm about this collaborative effort, stating that the project has received approval from the Council of Ministers.

“ I am delighted to announce its commencement. We are committed to accelerating the implementation process, ensuring it aligns with the highest standards, and express our gratitude to UNDP and DOCC for their support. We look forward to the timely construction of the building adhering to the high standards of a climate-proof structure,” he said.

Bakokoto expresses gratitude to the Ministry of Climate Change for affording local suppliers the opportunity to bid for a tender.

She assured that, drawing upon past experiences, Wilco is well-equipped to deliver the anticipated services.