Fiji’s Ministry of Rural, Maritime Development, and Disaster Management has received a significant donation aimed at fortifying its disaster preparedness efforts. This contribution, comprising early warning system tools, has been made available by the International Organization for Migration in partnership with the Japanese government. The intent is to bolster disaster risk management and enhance resilience among vulnerable communities in Fiji.
Deputy Secretary Mitieli Cama expressed appreciation for the support, highlighting its role in strengthening disaster resilience within governmental bodies and communities alike. He noted that the partnership with Japan extends beyond providing essential equipment, representing a deep-rooted friendship and a shared pursuit of a safer, more resilient future.
Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, Rokuichiro Michii, affirmed Japan’s enduring dedication to the Pacific region, informed by its own history with natural disasters. The Ambassador emphasized the pivotal importance of preparedness, timely alerts, and robust infrastructure in ensuring safety and resilience.
The items donated include Starlink satellite internet kits, which are particularly valuable for offering high-speed internet connectivity to isolated communities across the Lau Group, Kadavu, Taveuni, and other outer islands. These technological upgrades are essential in bridging communication gaps in remote locations with limited connectivity, thus ensuring that life-saving information can reach these areas promptly.
This donation supports Fiji’s continuous efforts to enhance its disaster risk management framework. Previous collaborations with institutions like the Asian Disaster Reduction Centre (ADRC) in Japan, as recalled by former discussions led by Minister Sakiasi Ditoka, underscore the positive impact of Japanese expertise and backing in boosting Fiji’s capabilities to manage natural disasters. Ongoing cooperation, including initiatives like the Memorandum of Cooperation for an Early Warning Satellite System using Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, reflects the strong partnership that has been instrumental in shaping Fiji’s disaster risk strategies.
Collaborative endeavors between Japan and Fiji, particularly around geohazards such as volcanic activities and tsunamis, have been crucial in advancing Fiji’s national and local disaster management frameworks. The continued support from the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) underscores a commitment to incorporating disaster risk reduction strategies, elevating hazard assessments, and promoting resilience investments.
This advancement in disaster readiness represents a promising move towards securing the safety and resilience of Fiji’s communities amidst an ever-changing climate and physical environment.