Port Vila, Vanuatu, 25 March 2026 – In an effort to strengthen the nation’s financial resilience and promote inclusive growth, the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu (RBV) convened a national validation workshop for the Inclusive Green Finance (IGF) Roadmap 2026–2030. This milestone event is part of the Greening the Pacific Financial Systems (GPFS) programme, implemented by the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and supported by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). 

The workshop brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from government, financial institutions, development partners, private sector, and civil society to review and validate the roadmap’s priorities, implementation mechanisms, and financing approaches. 

Opening the workshop, Deputy Governor Dr. Michael Hillian underscored the critical importance of climate-responsive financial systems. “Inclusive green finance is not optional, it is essential. This roadmap provides a coordinated framework to strengthen our financial system and ensure it responds effectively to climate risks while expanding access to financial services.” 

Vanuatu is increasingly vulnerable to climate-related shocks, including cyclones, flooding, and sea-level rise, while a significant portion of the population remains financially excluded. The IGF Roadmap addresses this dual challenge by promoting access to climate-responsive lending products and climate risk insurance solutions. 

AFD reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Vanuatu’s sustainable development. Ms. Alexandra Brizio, Project Manager at AFD Vanuatu, noted “This roadmap represents a strategic turning point. Financial systems are powerful levers for change when aligned with climate and inclusion objectives.” 

The validated IGF Roadmap will guide coordinated action across stakeholders, strengthen environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, and mobilize climate finance to support vulnerable populations including women, youth, MSMEs, and rural communities. 

On behalf of GGGI, Deputy Country Representative Mr. Arabothu Dheeraj highlighted the roadmap’s practical orientation. “This roadmap is designed as a hands-on tool.” Today’s validation ensures priorities are relevant, financing mechanisms are realistic, and delivery can be achieved at scale, particularly for vulnerable communities.” GGGI green investment officer Dr. Enerelt Enkhbold also stressed the importance of regular monitoring and tracking of the IGF roadmap activities and urged that data collection commence without delay.  

RBV reaffirmed its leadership under the National Financial Inclusion Strategy and committed to working with partners to translate the roadmap into tangible outcomes that build both resilience and opportunity for all Vanuatu communities. 

Follow us on X | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram         

For more information, visit:  https://gggi.org    

Epeli Waqavonovono, Senior Economist and GPFS Project Manager – Pacific 

epeli.waqavonovono@gggi.org  

Kelly Vacala, Regional Communications & Knowledge Sharing Lead    

 kelly.vacala@gggi.org  

ENDS