The village of Buretu in Tailevu has recently inaugurated a new community evacuation center, marking a significant step in improving disaster preparedness in the region. Funded by the government at a cost of $220,000, the upgraded Buretu Community Hall is now poised to serve as a critical refuge during natural disasters, allowing residents to shelter locally rather than seeking refuge in neighboring areas.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, officiated the commissioning of the facility, emphasizing its role in protecting lives and enhancing community resilience against the impacts of climate change. The project involved not only retrofitting the existing hall but also enhancing sanitation facilities and reinforcing the structure to comply with disaster safety standards.
During the opening ceremony, Ditoka remarked, “The success of projects like this depends on the continued partnership between the Government, community leaders, and the people themselves. Development can only be sustained when we all take responsibility for protecting and maintaining what we have been given.”
The newly enhanced evacuation center is designed to provide a secure haven during cyclones and floods, reflecting the Fijian government’s commitment to improving disaster readiness and living conditions in rural areas. This initiative is part of a broader effort, as similar evacuation centers have been established in other villages within Tailevu, including Daku and Nabouciwa. Each of these centers empowers local communities, equipping them to better cope with the increasing frequency of natural disasters.
Community residents have expressed hope that these centers will foster safer environments and strengthen communal bonds. The consistent development of such facilities not only signifies a proactive approach to disaster management but also underscores the shared responsibility between the government and communities in constructing a resilient future, instilling a sense of confidence as Fiji navigates the challenges of climate-related events.