I am currently serving as the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Policy Advisor for Fiji and the Pacific Region and working in close collaboration with the National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO).
Japan’s long-term commitment to supporting Fiji’s resilience, is shaped by our extensive experience with disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and landslides.
I am focusing on strengthening disaster governance and advancing the goals of the National DRR Plan (NDRRP) 2018–2030 with NDRMO, line ministries, and division, province, and district offices.
NDRMO has led drafting divisional and priority area DRR plans for the Western and Central Divisions, Nadi, Ba, and greater Suva and National DRR Annual Report with technical support by JICA.
Those officially endorsed plans and reports are the first step to overcome global challenge of translating plans into action and outline efforts to mobilise resources, strengthen stakeholder partnerships, and ensure evidence-based decision-making.
I also promote the sharing of Fiji’s good DRR practices across other Pacific nations, hoping to contribute to regional resilience.
I am proud to work hand in hand with the people of Fiji to build a safer and more resilient society through practical actions and collaborative partnerships.
Noriko Sakurai is a JICA expert (Disaster Risk Reduction Policy Advisor for Fiji and Pacific Region).
A/PS discussing with DRR group, JICA HQ, December 2025. Picture: SUPPLIED
Heavy storm experience in Honjo DRR Awareness centre in Tokyo, December 2025. Picture: SUPPLIED
At the Pacific DRR Ministerial meeting in Palau, November 2025. Picture: SUPPLIED
