Government is committed to advancing inclusivity, promoting gender equality and women empowerment by strengthening their participation in humanitarian and other leadership roles.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka made the statement while delivering his speech during the World Humanitarian Day celebration in Suva last week.
This year’s theme ‘No Matter What’, brings focus on how aid workers come together in a collective effort to alleviate extreme need.
“The theme reminds us that in the race against time, poverty, conflict and disaster, we are all interconnected,” Mr Ditoka said.
“In the face of these challenges, our response must be rooted in empathy, understanding and the recognition of our shared humanity.
“Among us, there are heroes – aid workers, volunteers, first responders, healthcare professionals who extend a helping hand precisely when it is most needed.”
Mr Ditoka acknowledged the work of civil society organisations (CSOs) for their unwavering dedication, adaptability, and resilience in humanitarian and other leadership roles.
He added that Government, through the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), was committed to strengthening Fiji’s response capacity, risk-informed development and co-ordination mechanisms accounting for all humanitarian actors.
“I wish to reiterate our unwavering dedication to collaborating with our hardworking disaster volunteers.
“Our initial draft of the disaster volunteer guideline, a collaborative effort with UNDRR, will be going for its second round of consultation.
“Our aspiration is to secure endorsement for this document, ensuring the protection and support of our diligent volunteers who contribute to the collective welfare of our society.”
