VANUATU, Sanoa Village, Tanaliu Community, Efate Island - January 2007
Construction of a community hall in exchange for a 12-plus acre no-take reserve for corals reefs, shells and fish for a minimum duration of 10 years
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Sanoa Village is inhabited by a group of people who migrated from Moso Island in 1962 with the purpose of preserving the natural resources and landmarks that once belonged to their great-grandparents. The village has a population of over 50 within the community of Tanaliu. The village custom land boundary is estimated at about 1,982 acres. The villagers’ source of income comes from farming, fishing, and selling coral and clam shells. The seaport was a famous site during World War II used by Americans for warships and sea planes. The sea is home to a variety of native corals and shells that have been trying to survive under immense pressure from human activity in the area for more than 12 years. Seacology is funding the construction of a community hall in exchange for an agreement to preserve a 12-acre marine reserve for a minimum duration of 10 years. The community has also committed to not sell shells or coral to tourists. *
UPDATE February 2007 - Seacology Field Representative Kevin Tari reports that construction on the community hall has begun. The villagers have completed the footing and soon they will be working to complete the floor slabs.
UPDATE March 2007 - Plans for February through June include site preparation, purchase and transportation of materials and construction of the community hall. The building is expected to be completed by June 2007. During construction, villagers were already reporting that they are excited about the changes in their marine reserve, including sightings of dugongs which they have never seen in the area before.
UPDATE June 2007 - Construction began in February 2007 with site clearing. By April 2007 the foundation, flooring and walls were constructed. The building is expected to be completed in June 2007.
UPDATE October 2007 - The building was completed in June 2007. An opening ceremony was held in July 2007 and was attended by villagers, field representative Kevin Tari, and board member Gordon Radley and Seacology supporter Amy Sabel.
*Support for asterisked projects is provided fully or in part by the
Nu
Skin Enterprises Force for Good Foundation
