Disasters affect everyone and everything, regardless of circumstance. This was the key message delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka during his opening speech at the recent Disaster Risk Resilience Scorecard Workshop for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) held in Suva.
Gavoka emphasized that disasters have widespread impacts that stretch across communities, infrastructure, and vital industries. He pointed out that building resilient homes and supporting livelihoods also extends protection to core sectors such as tourism. “Our ability to recover swiftly and effectively after a crisis safeguards not just the industry but the thousands of lives it supports,” he stated.
The workshop aims to enhance Fiji’s capacity to manage disaster challenges to ensure the country remains a safe destination for tourists and continues to provide opportunities for its citizens. Over the three-day event, participants will engage in discussions pertinent to the Sendai Framework, identify existing gaps, and create actionable strategies utilizing the Disaster Resilience Scorecard designed for SIDS.
Gavoka noted the workshop’s significance in shaping policies that will protect people, strengthen infrastructure, and preserve the environment. The insights gathered during this event will be pivotal in strengthening livelihoods, maintaining industries, and safeguarding communities. Representatives from various organizations, including the Disaster Management Office, the United Nations Capital Development Fund, and academic institutions attended the workshop, highlighting a collaborative effort to build resilience.
This initiative not only enhances preparedness against future disasters but also reinforces the importance of community engagement and responsibility in achieving sustainable development and protection efforts. As participants work together, the hope is that they will foster a culture of resilience that not only benefits Fiji but sets a precedent for other SIDS facing similar challenges.
In summary, the workshop serves as a crucial step in building the necessary frameworks and strategies to ensure a resilient future for Fiji amidst the threats posed by natural disasters.
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