Overview:
Vanuatu’s National Council of Chiefs is urging the country to prioritize feeding its own people before expanding taro exports, as it prepares to launch the ambitious 50,000 Taro Project. The initiative aims to strengthen food security by supplying schools, hospitals, correctional facilities and security forces while promoting community-led agricultural development.
PORT VILA, 24 JULY 2026 (VBTC) — The President of the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs says Vanuatu must feed its own people before looking at exporting taro overseas.
Chief Paul Robert Ravun made the remarks ahead of the launch of the 50,000 Taro Project, saying the initiative is designed to strengthen food security while supporting Government institutions and communities.
“Before we talk about exports, now is the time to feed our own people first. The 50,000 taro will be distributed to schools, hospitals, correctional services, and the Police and Vanuatu Mobile Force to support those serving our country.”
Chief Ravun said the project follows this year’s Custom Economy theme and reflects the chiefs’ commitment to ensuring communities have enough food while supporting national development.
The 50,000 Taro Project is a joint initiative of the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs and the Tabwemasana Island Council of Chiefs.
It will officially be launched on 29 July at Unity Park in Luganville, Sanma Province.
Chief Ravun has invited the people of Sanma and surrounding communities to attend the launch, describing it as an important milestone for the province.
He said the project will begin with taro in Sanma, while other provinces are expected to develop similar initiatives based on agricultural products best suited to their local areas.
Preparations are already underway, with communities across Sanma expected to deliver their taro to the Chiefs’ Nakamal between 24 and 28 July ahead of the official launch…. PACNEWS
