Vio Island, situated near Lautoka, is making significant progress in strengthening its climate resilience and sustainability through the recent launch of a new evacuation center and upgrades to its solar mini-grid system. This initiative underscores the impactful collaboration between government bodies, development partners, and local communities, as highlighted by Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management.
The newly created evacuation center will be powered by renewable energy, serving as a vital refuge during severe weather conditions, particularly for vulnerable members of the community, including women, children, and the elderly. Ditoka noted that these advancements not only enhance safety but also improve access to energy and promote sustainable living practices among islanders.
The project has been funded by UNDP’s Governance for Resilience (Gov4Res) initiative and the Rural Electrification Fund, with a total investment of $110,000. The solar mini-grid has expanded its capacity from 5.88 kilowatts to 25 kilowatts, which is expected to reduce carbon emissions by over 23 tonnes annually while saving more than 9,000 liters of diesel each year.
In the face of global climate change challenges, Ditoka emphasized the urgency of local efforts in preserving critical services like water and sanitation and enhancing overall disaster preparedness. He also disclosed that the government is in the process of revising its rural development framework to better align with community needs and improve coordination among various partners.
The initiative has garnered positive feedback from officials, including Munkhtuya Altangerel, the UNDP Pacific Resident Representative, who commended the opening of the evacuation center and solar mini-grid as steps towards fulfilling commitments to enhance safety, resilience, and economic opportunities for the local populace. Peter Roberts, Australia’s High Commissioner to Fiji, also praised the project, citing its potential to provide dependable power and safety for future generations.
When compared to similar efforts in communities such as Daku Village and Yalobi Village, the developments on Vio Island highlight a broader regional commitment to enhancing disaster readiness and climate resilience. Projects of this nature are crucial for cultivating a safer, more sustainable future for island communities facing the impacts of climate change.