In Vanuatu the people of Ambae are today marking what they call the "Ambae Exodus" to remember the first evacuation from the island after the eruption of the Manaro volcano in September last year.
Ash fall on Ambae Photo: Philippe Carillo - Fusion productions Ltd
Several months later people returned to the island, only to be forced off again this year as the effects of the continuing eruption worsened.
Ambae is now uninhabited.
Chief Wesley Wgwango has told the Daily Post newspaper that to turn their backs on Ambae was the most painful thing to do and his people are pleading for future generations to remember and honour the day.
The day is be marked by speeches, custom dances and prayers in Port Vila, Luganville and Maewo, which is where most of evacuees have gone.
