Temotu Earthquake and Tsunami One Year Anniversary Report

On 6 February 2013, an 8.0 magnitude earthquake and tsunami swept through the Solomon Islands’ remotest area. More than 6,500 people were affected and 23 communities were substantially damaged following the disaster.  

The earthquake and tsunami damaged housing, water sources and systems, health clinics, schools, roads, wharves, food gardens and other means of livelihoods such as fishing equipment.  

World Vision has helped more than 6,500 people, in the immediate aftermath of the disaster and through on-going projects, on Santa Cruz Island in the eastern province of Temotu. 

World Vision has implemented relief and long term recovery projects to help families get their lives back to normal. Projects focus on children’s development and protection, providing access to clean water and improving hygiene practices, and establishing an Emergency Radio project to assist with sharing relevant recovery information.

As part of the Government of Solomon Islands’ Humanitarian Action Plan, World Vision was appointed by the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) to co-ordinate the procurement and shipment of food, water and essential items to Temotu.  World Vision distributed relief items to more than 3,600 people (600 households) in 85 communities affected by the disaster, during a two month period.   Food, water, shelter kits, kitchen kits, hygiene and sanitation supplies, baby kits and clothes were distributed.