Fiji is making significant strides in the adoption of geospatial technologies to enhance urban and rural planning, while also supporting sustainable and climate-resilient development across its islands. This initiative was highlighted by Paula Cirikiyasawa, the Permanent Secretary for Lands and Mineral Resources, during the UN GeoNow Moganshan Talk Session.
Cirikiyasawa addressed the unique challenges faced by small island nations, which include scattered populations and increased vulnerability to natural hazards. He noted that the implementation of geospatial data is vital for improving land administration, mineral mapping, and environmental monitoring in Fiji. This advancement is expected to lead to more effective decision-making and better resource management.
Additionally, Fiji is collaborating with regional partners to standardize data governance and build technical skills, while also providing training to young professionals. This strategy ensures that the advantages of geospatial innovations are accessible to all communities, thereby promoting inclusive, efficient, and sustainable development throughout the nation.
The uptick in the use of geospatial technologies aligns with discussions from past events, such as the 15th Session of the UN Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management, where Cirikiyasawa emphasized the importance of geospatial tools in developing climate-resilient infrastructure and making informed decisions amid natural disasters.
Fiji’s commitment to advanced technologies includes investments in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and drone mapping, which are crucial for tackling the challenges posed by climate change and improving land management practices.
These initiatives paint a hopeful picture for Fiji’s future, as the integration of effective geospatial systems not only aims to further the nation’s sustainable development goals but also enhances community resilience, enabling citizens to better navigate the complexities associated with environmental changes.