The Chief Executive Officer of the National Fire Authority (NFA), Puamau Sowane, has expressed grave concerns over the rising incidents of structural fires in Fiji, despite the implementation of numerous community awareness programs. Sowane highlighted that, even with extensive education campaigns across both urban and rural areas, the frequency of fires—and the accompanying loss of life—continues to escalate.
“Our frameworks, rolled out to communities, do not seem to be yielding the desired results, as we continue to see an upward trend in structural fires,” Sowane remarked. He pointed out that most of these incidents occur in residential neighborhoods where enforcement of fire safety regulations remains weak. While commercial and industrial buildings undergo annual inspections to ensure compliance and safety, the residential sector suffers from a lack of proper oversight, which can be attributed to insufficient resources. Currently, the NFA employs only 30 certified building inspectors for monitoring compliance across the country.
To bolster fire safety standards, the NFA has been strengthening its capacity through partnerships and training, particularly with the Fire Protection Association of Australia. Sowane noted that the government has also consistently met its obligations to fund the NFA operations, contributing $6.1 million last year and $8.2 million this year.
In a broader context, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, emphasized the importance of collaboration among architects, engineers, builders, and material suppliers to enhance fire readiness, especially in urban centers like Suva, where a number of high-rise buildings are on the rise. Nalumisa articulated the need for a collective effort in ensuring fire safety, stating, “Fire safety isn’t just the job of the Fire Authority; it requires a holistic approach.”
This week’s Fiji Fire Forum showcased local and international fire protection experts who gathered to share insights on innovative technology, training, and policy recommendations aimed at improving fire resilience throughout the nation. This collaborative initiative aims to forge a safer environment for all Fijians, reinforcing that with shared effort and awareness, the goal of community safety can be progressively achieved.
Overall, while the ongoing rise in structural fires poses significant challenges, it also serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of community engagement and proactive fire safety practices. Encouraging both individual vigilance and collective responsibility can pave the way toward a safer future for all residents in Fiji.