Land Transport – Progress & Initiatives Under Hon. Andrew Solomon Napuat
Early Actions (2017–2018)
Upon his appointment as Minister of Internal Affairs, Andrew Napuat took decisive action to increase access to the land transport sector for unemployed ni-Vanuatu by requesting the Port Vila Land Transport Authority to cancel public servants’ memberships in the industry, freeing permits for others.
In 2018, he limited the number of service bus permits on Efate Island to reduce congestion and improve bus company profitability. He also introduced strict spot fines for traffic violations, especially drunk driving, imposing penalties up to approximately US$4,500. Additionally, he signed orders to establish dress codes and etiquette standards for public transport drivers to professionalize the sector. Proposals to install taxi meters and restrict bus operations at night were introduced but remain under consideration.
Recent Contributions (2022–2025)
- Modernizing Vehicle Registration and Licensing:
Under Napuat’s stewardship, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has accelerated the digitisation of vehicle registration and licensing services, improving efficiency and reducing delays nationwide. This has helped citizens across provinces, including remote areas of Tanna, gain easier access to transport permits and driver licenses. - Road Safety Campaigns and Enforcement:
Napuat has actively supported national road safety initiatives that involve community education and stronger law enforcement, targeting reckless driving and promoting seatbelt use. Collaborations with police and local leaders have increased awareness, especially among youth and public transport operators. - Infrastructure Support for Transport in Tanna:
Recognizing the critical role of transport in economic and social development, Napuat facilitated the provision of transport equipment for rural communities in Tanna. For example, the donation of a Yamaha boat engine to Loanpakel and vehicles like a KIA Bongo for Loukapalit Nakamal has improved mobility for both people and goods. - Supporting Public Transport Operators:
While meters have not been widely implemented, Napuat continues to engage with taxi associations and bus companies to develop a fair fare system and explore scheduling that balances service availability with operator livelihoods. - Decentralisation of Land Transport Services:
As part of his wider decentralisation agenda, Napuat has worked to expand land transport licensing and permit services beyond Port Vila to provincial offices, including Tanna, reducing the burden of travel for applicants and improving service delivery.
Impact Summary
| Area | Achievements & Actions |
|---|---|
| Access & Licensing | Cancelled public servant permits to open industry access; digitised registration and licensing |
| Traffic Law Enforcement | Enforced spot fines for traffic violations, promoted road safety campaigns |
| Public Transport Management | Limited bus permits on Efate to ease congestion; engaged on taxi meter policies |
| Rural & Constituency Support | Provided transport equipment to communities in Tanna, enhancing mobility |
| Service Decentralisation | Expanded land transport service points to provinces, improving access for rural populations |
Through these ongoing initiatives, Minister Napuat has aimed to modernize, regulate, and decentralize land transport in Vanuatu, while fostering safer roads and improved mobility for his constituents in Tanna and the nation at large.
Andrew Solomon Napuat 