I agree with Michael’s points – Pacific islands with sparse populations over geographically spread islands pose major logistical challenges (as in Vanuatu’s case) which further highlights the importance of clear plans leading to a better response.
Following on from that – I wonder when it comes to logistics & re-establishing essential services if there is a need for coordination at a government / cluster level but also a need to build local resilience-and capacity to respond post-disaster. For example, as well as having a well organised logistics cluster, communities need to be made aware of the measures they can take to help facilitate logistical operations and aid arriving e.g, training community members to clear the airport runways after a cyclone to enable planes to land and deliver support.
Tele-communications are also a highly essential need post-disaster. One of the biggest challenges faced is often the lack of reliable data. This can result either in surplus aid, or not enough aid arriving where it is needed. Re-establishing telecommunications allows for remote, rapid needs assessments to take place (especially if local contact points e.g. government extension officers, provincial or community disaster committees are trained in the data collection and can then feedback this way). It allows decision makers to make better informed choices regarding coordination and distribution of relief. Logistics also play an important part in not just relief arriving, but data collection teams being able to reach areas and accurately assess the damage and loss, and therefore design appropriate relief strategies.