VILLAGES in the tikina of Naiyalayala in Ra have completed a major step in strengthening local disaster readiness with the graduation of their first community emergency response team.
Twenty-five volunteers from Drauniivi, Togovere, Rabulu, Nananu and Naseyani are now trained to protect their families and support their communities during emergencies.
The program, supported by the FIJI Water Foundation, the National Fire Authority, and local partners, builds on the first phase launched in Togovere in 2024.
That initial training, carried out with the National Disaster Management office, introduced villagers to basic emergency response and coordination.
This second phase focused on developing certified trainers through a “Train the trainer” approach, equipping participants to lead preparedness activities in their own villages. Training covered first aid, fire safety, search and rescue, and safe evacuation.
“The FIJI Water Foundation is proud to support local efforts that equip Fijians with the tools to effectively navigate and overcome challenges like natural disasters and community emergencies,” said FIJI Water Foundation director Semi Lotawa.
Participant Eneriko Naikelekelevesi said the training had given him confidence.
“Before the CERT training, I would not have known where to start if something happened in the village.”
The new CERT team marks a growing, village-led effort to strengthen resilience across the tikina of Naiyalayala.
