The village of Nabouciwa in Tailevu is celebrating a significant enhancement in its disaster resilience and living standards with the recent inauguration of a new evacuation center and an ablution block. Officially launched by the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka, these vital projects are aimed at providing villagers with secure shelter and improved sanitation during emergencies.
The total investment for these initiatives amounts to $101,652.84, with the evacuation center valued at $52,359.43 and the ablution block at $49,293.41. Funding was sourced from the Ministry, while construction was a collaborative effort involving CCD Carpenters and local villagers, who contributed labor support.
During the ceremony, Minister Ditoka emphasized the government’s enduring commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness in rural communities. He stated, “These facilities not only provide a safe refuge during cyclones but also reflect our ongoing effort to build resilient, sustainable, and inclusive communities across Fiji.”
Lusia Mateni, a representative from the Soqosoqo Vakamarama of Nabouciwa, expressed gratitude for the ministry’s support, highlighting the joy that the new facilities bring to the 34 households in the village. She noted that these projects replace an aging community hall from 1972, which had suffered extensive damage over the years due to storms.
Mateni shared that the new facilities offer families peace of mind and improved access to clean water and sanitation, both critical elements for daily life and disaster readiness. The inauguration of these facilities not only enhances safety and comfort but also signifies a positive turn for the community, allowing villagers to feel more prepared for any natural calamities they may face.
This initiative aligns with a growing trend in Fiji, where many communities, like Naivakacau and Daku Village, have also established or upgraded similar evacuation centers to bolster their readiness against natural disasters. The government’s focus on improving infrastructure for disaster preparedness is paving the way for a safer future for vulnerable populations across the nation, symbolizing hope and resilience amid the ongoing challenges posed by climate change.