Fiji has officially transferred its leadership role in the Pacific Disaster Risk Management (DRM) platform to Palau during the DRM Ministers’ Meeting held earlier today. The handover marks a significant step in regional collaboration toward strengthening disaster resilience.
At the meeting, Fiji’s Director of the National Disaster Risk Management Office, Napolioni Boseiwaqa, expressed the nation’s dedication to supporting Palau and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among Pacific leaders. He reiterated that while progress has been made with the appointment of the Pacific Ministerial Champion for DRM, further advancements depend on shared initiatives across the region.
Reflecting on Fiji’s tenure, Boseiwaqa stated that the period highlighted a strengthened commitment to reform, readiness, and resilience, which are foundational to ensuring that no communities are left unprotected against disasters. Notably, he highlighted Fiji’s recent enactment of a new National Disaster Risk Management Act, replacing the outdated 1998 legislation. This new framework establishes a coordinated governance structure through the National DRM Council and Emergency Committee, formalizes the Humanitarian Cluster System, and enhances assistance strategies during emergencies.
Boseiwaqa also underscored the necessity of proactive investment in disaster preparedness to alleviate the adverse impacts on communities and essential sectors. Initiatives like the Early Warning for All Program exemplify Fiji’s approach, as it identifies key investment areas within the four crucial pillars of early warning systems, tailored to local needs.
As the conference progresses, leaders will review the strides made since the inaugural meeting in Nadi and outline the future direction for creating a safer and more resilient Pacific. The collaboration across Pacific nations aims not only to enhance immediate response capabilities but also to protect communities from the escalating threats posed by climate change and natural disasters.
The meeting represents a hopeful opportunity for all member nations to unite in effectively tackling the growing challenges of disaster preparedness and climate adaptation efforts, reinforcing the region’s commitment to collective resilience. Fiji’s active role in fostering a coordinated approach further cements its position as a leader in disaster risk management within the Pacific context.