Telecom Fiji has announced a pivotal partnership aimed at enhancing the nation’s disaster preparedness through the advancement of communication infrastructure. This collaboration brings together several national organizations, including Live & Learn Fiji, the National Disaster Risk Management Office, the Fiji Meteorological Service, the Ministry of Disaster Management, the Ministry of Communications, the Telecom Authority of Fiji, and various telecommunications service providers.
The primary goal of this strategic alliance is to strengthen the Multi-Hazard Early Warning System, ensuring cohesive functionality of various warning mechanisms during emergencies. Central to this initiative is the adoption of the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), an internationally recognized standard that allows for the simultaneous dissemination of emergency alerts across diverse platforms, including SMS, radio, television, mobile applications, websites, and sirens.
Charles Goundar, Chief Executive of Telecom Fiji, underscored that improving Fiji’s early warning capabilities goes beyond technological upgrades; it signifies a strong commitment to protecting lives. This partnership reinforces the Fiji government’s ongoing efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, which have included multiple initiatives highlighting the integration of local innovations and traditional knowledge to meet community needs.
The focus on mobile technology has proven particularly beneficial, especially in remote maritime areas, illustrating the crucial role of effective communication networks during disaster scenarios. Moreover, the Green Climate Fund has been instrumental in funding enhancements to early warning systems, paving the way for considerable progress in building disaster resilience throughout Fiji.
Through these collaborative initiatives, Fiji is progressing toward a more secure and responsive disaster management framework. By merging advanced technological solutions with community-centric programs, the country is diligently working to ensure timely and essential information reaches even the most isolated communities during emergencies. This proactive strategy not only boosts immediate disaster response effectiveness but also establishes a solid groundwork for a resilient future amid the challenges posed by climate change.