National Archives of Vanuatu Vanuatu Cultural Centre

Overview

The National Archives of Vanuatu is the official repository of public records for the Republic of Vanuatu and forms part of the Vanuatu Cultural Centre (Vanuatu Kaljoral Senta, or VKS), the country's overarching national cultural institution. Situated in Port Vila, the archives serve as the custodian of Vanuatu's documentary heritage, safeguarding the historical, cultural, and governmental records of the nation.

History and Founding

The operations of the National Archives are governed primarily by the Archives Act (Cap. 216), which establishes the National Archives, defines the role of the Archivist, and sets out procedures for the management of public records. The National Library and National Archives building was opened in August 2013, designed in traditional Melanesian style consistent with the broader Vanuatu National Cultural Council Complex. A key milestone came in December 2004 when the Vanuatu Cultural Centre launched the Vanuatu Cultural Information Network (VCIN), a collaborative digital database project across all sections of the VKS, including the National Archives.

Collections and Holdings

The Archives collects public records older than fifteen years, as mandated by law. Holdings include government administrative records, legal documents, colonial-era records from the Anglo-French Condominium period, genealogical records (including genealogies of the Shepherd Islands), and historical materials in Bislama, English, and French. The institution also supports digitization projects to modernize the preservation of valuable records.

Access and Usage

The National Archives is open to government bodies, researchers, students, and the general public for reference and research. Opening hours are Monday through Friday, 09:00–12:30. Access to some culturally sensitive materials may be restricted in accordance with customary practices (tabu). The institution also collaborates with national archives, libraries, museums, and international organizations to promote Vanuatu's heritage and raise awareness of records management.