Architects in Fiji are being called upon to strengthen their role in promoting climate-resilient development. This urgent plea was made by Esrom Immanuel, the Minister for Finance, Commerce, and Business Development, during the recently concluded Fiji Architecture Conference and Trade Exhibition 2025. Emphasizing the importance of architecture as a vital national investment, Immanuel asserted that the realization of development plans relies heavily on architects’ ability to transform policy into resilient and future-ready infrastructure.
With the increasing threat posed by climate change, the Minister stressed the necessity for disaster-resilient designs, particularly for essential facilities like schools, hospitals, and community buildings situated in high-risk areas. This initiative aligns with ongoing discussions within the architecture and construction community, where voices like that of Member of Parliament Manoa Kamikamica have highlighted the cultural and identity aspects represented through architecture in Fiji.
Furthermore, the Fiji Association of Architects has been urged to play a pivotal role in national planning, land-use reform, and education partnerships. The call for deeper involvement in these areas reflects a broader awareness within the government and architectural sectors of the need to enhance infrastructural resilience in light of climate change’s impacts.
In a related context, stakeholders from the construction industry have highlighted the urgent need for improved governance and enforcement of building regulations to ensure safety and quality. Current challenges, such as the use of substandard materials and inadequate oversight, have raised concerns about building integrity, especially in a nation vulnerable to natural disasters. The construction industry is now experiencing a concerted push towards collaboration among government, educational institutions, and industry representatives to foster a more robust regulatory framework.
These concerted efforts signal a hopeful and proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate change in Fiji. By prioritizing sustainable architecture and adaptive construction practices, Fiji is embracing the opportunity to build a resilient future that not only protects its environment but also uplifts its communities. The continued dialogue around climate resilience in infrastructure development paves the way for innovations that could significantly benefit the nation, ensuring that future generations inherit a sustainable and secure environment.