United by the spirit of regional solidarity and compassion, the Fiji Emergency Medical Assistance Team (FEMAT) has embarked on a critical mission to Vanuatu this week.
Answering the urgent call for help after a devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake shook the island two weeks ago, FEMAT’s deployment signals hope and swift action for those in need.
This mission reinforces Fiji’s unwavering commitment to supporting its Pacific neighbours in times of crisis.
The 12-member FEMAT contingent will provide critical medical support at Port Vila and the Vila Central Hospital over the next two weeks.
Before their departure, the team presented their i tatau to the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr Jemesa Tudravu.
While expressing gratitude, Dr Tudravu acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by each member.
“You are not only representing the Ministry of Health while out there, but you are also representing Fiji as well,” Dr Tudravu said.
“Thank you for your sacrifice. I know it is not easy leaving your loved ones and family behind to carry out this duty.”
FEMAT’s deployment is part of a broader initiative that saw government pledge $1million in aid to Vanuatu, announced by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
This financial support aims to assist in the nation’s recovery efforts, providing much-needed resources to rebuild infrastructure and support communities affected by the disaster.
Mr Rabuka said while the monetary contribution could not undo the damage, it is a crucial step towards helping Vanuatu “bounce back” from the tragedy.
Mr Rabuka also praised the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) personnel who have been on the ground in Vanuatu since the earthquake, working tirelessly under challenging conditions.
The RFMF team, which sacrificed their Christmas holidays to aid in rehabilitation efforts, has faced continuous aftershocks and currently resides in makeshift tents after vacating double-storey buildings for safety reasons.
“Their dedication to helping the people of Vanuatu remains unwavering,” Mr Rabuka said in earlier reports.
Fiji’s response to Vanuatu’s crisis is not unprecedented. FEMAT, the Pacific’s first WHO-verified international Emergency Medical Team, had been previously deployed to assist Vanuatu following natural disasters.
In March 2023, FEMAT provided crucial medical support in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclones Kevin and Judy. This long-standing partnership demonstrates Fiji’s leadership in regional disaster response and medical assistance. Vanuatu’s current rehabilitation efforts include clearing debris, restoring water supplies, and rebuilding homes, schools, and hospitals.
Meanwhile, international aid agencies, alongside local authorities, continue to work round-the-clock to provide temporary shelters and essential supplies to displaced families. FEMAT’s presence will significantly bolster these efforts by delivering medical care and reinforcing healthcare services in the most affected areas.
The deployment of FEMAT also reflects the broader collaborative spirit of the Pacific region.
The team’s mission is supported by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) – a cooperation that demonstrates the importance of regional partnerships in addressing shared challenges and building resilience against future disasters.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, highlighted the critical role of FEMAT, stating, “Fiji’s strength lies in our unity and compassion for our Pacific brothers and sisters. FEMAT’s deployment exemplifies our commitment to regional cooperation and the spirit of mutual support that binds us as Pacific Islanders.”
The team’s responsibilities will include providing emergency medical care, supporting local healthcare workers, and assessing long-term healthcare needs.
Their expertise in managing post-disaster health crises will ensure that essential services are restored swiftly, mitigating further health risks for affected communities.
As FEMAT embarks on this mission, their efforts not only signify Fiji’s dedication to humanitarian aid but also reinforce the collective strength of Pacific nations in times of adversity.
The journey ahead for Vanuatu’s recovery is long, but with the continued support of regional allies like Fiji, hope and resilience will undoubtedly prevail.
