Pentecost Island, Vanuatu — Women across five communities in Pentecost Island are launching new community enterprises, moving immediately from energy training to economic action. Twenty-five electric sewing machines were delivered to five women-led cooperatives in Waterfall, Melsisi, Nambwaranguit, Loltong, and Larimaat, positioning them to immediately capitalize on the upcoming arrival of 24/7 clean, reliable and renewable electricity.

The sewing machines represent a direct link between critical new infrastructure and tangible economic growth. The clean energy will be provided by new pico-hydro power stations built under the Vanuatu Green Transformation (VGET) Project, a UNDP initiative funded by the Government of Japan and implemented in partnership with the Department of Energy of the Ministry of Climate Change.

The handover follows the recent Green Skills Development Training held in early October in Ranwadi College, where twenty-three women and youth developed practical business plans focused on using the new electricity for income generation. Tailoring garments, including essential school uniforms and handicrafts, emerged as a top community priority.

Speaking on behalf of the women from the community, Fiona Montabago from Larimaat in Northeast Pentecost shared how the training and equipment are opening new possibilities:

“Before, we thought electricity would only bring light to our homes. But now we see it can bring income, confidence, and new opportunities for women. With these sewing machines, we can start small businesses to support our families and our community.”

Representing the Government of Japan, H.E. the First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan to Vanuatu, Ishida Munetoshi, emphasized Japan’s continued commitment to community-driven and inclusive development: “Japan is today especially proud to support Vanuatu’s vision for a just and inclusive green transformation”

Acting Director of Energy at the Ministry of Climate Change, Misel Sisi, highlighted how the initiative aligns with national priorities:

“The Government of Vanuatu thanks to this partnership is working to ensure that our energy transition benefits every household — not only through clean electricity, but through stronger livelihoods and economic empowerment. By placing women at the center of this transition, we are building more resilient and self-reliant communities.”

UNDP Pacific Resident Representative, Munkhtuya Altangerel, underscored the importance of linking infrastructure to capacity building:

“Energy is not only about light — it is about possibilities. UNDP believes on pairing renewable energy infrastructure with economic empowerment. Offering tools to make the most out of the upcoming electricity is leading a sustainable green transition in ways that are practical, entrepreneurial, and deeply rooted in the community. This is how UNDP champions at inclusive development.”

The delivery of the sewing machines is turning the business plans into reality, creating immediate business opportunities for the tailoring of garments and handicrafts. This initiative clearly reflects how development opportunities multiply by advancing gender equality, local capacity, and green transition simultaneously.

For more information, please contact: 

Daniel C. Gonzalez, Communications Analyst, UNDP Pacific Office, daniel.calderon.gonzalez@undp.org