Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Minister Sakiasi Ditoka has encouraged other communities to look to the villages in the district of Naiyalayala in Ra as a model for disaster preparedness and resilience.
Earlier this week, Mr Ditoka launched the community emergency response team (CERT) training for five communities in the district of Naiyalayala at Togovere Village.
The minister said by initiating similar programs, communities could collectively strengthen the nation’s ability to withstand and recover from natural disasters.
“Our shared objective as a nation is to enhance community resilience and ensure our communities are well-prepared to confront any challenges that may arise,” he said.
“The tikina of Naiyalayala is no stranger to the devastating effects of natural disasters. Cyclones, floods, and droughts have significantly impacted this community, leaving behind trails of destruction that affect health, housing and livelihoods.”
Mr Ditoka said that by raising awareness and imparting knowledge to the residents, guided by CERT’s expertise and supported by the National Disaster Management Office, the initiative could create a community that is not only prepared for disasters but also capable of recovering swiftly and efficiently.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the tikina Naiyalayala for their commitment to this cause,” the minister said.
Mr Ditoka also acknowledged the Fiji Water Foundation for demonstrating its dedication to supporting communities where Fiji Water employees live and work.
“Their commitment to community resilience and empowerment is evident in every project they undertake, including this initiative aimed at enhancing community resilience through CERT in tikina Naiyalayala.”
In a statement, the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) said the training sessions would complement the nationally-adopted community-based disaster risk management manual.
It said officers from the NDMO would be present to assist the CERT training and assist in aligning the training to the national standards.
