The National Disaster Awareness Week (NDAW) 2024 has officially commenced with a Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDRM) training session in Navuso village, located in Naitasiri. Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, the Turaga na Qaranivalu, opened the training by recognizing the government’s commitment to equipping grassroots communities with vital knowledge on disaster risk reduction (DRR).
The main celebration for NDAW is scheduled to take place in Nakasi on Wednesday. This decision comes in response to the Central Division’s heightened susceptibility to disasters such as flooding and landslides.
The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) is responsible for facilitating NDAW annually, as dictated by the National Disaster Risk Management Act of 2024. The event aims to instill a sense of responsibility towards disaster risk reduction across all societal levels, fostering awareness within both public and private sectors, and ultimately enhancing the community’s readiness and resilience.
This year’s NDAW theme is “Empowering the Future Generation for a Resilient Future,” coinciding with the global theme for the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2024, which underscores the importance of education in safeguarding and empowering youth for a future free from disasters.
As part of the NDAW activities, the Fiji NDMO, along with its partners, will be conducting a live flood evacuation drill in Navuso Village. This drill aims to test the recently installed flood early warning siren and the village’s flood response plan while also incorporating a government-wide flood response table-top exercise.
“This training is crucial for enhancing our community’s capacity to effectively respond during any disaster,” stated Ms. Litiana Bainimarama, NDMO’s Manager of Emergency Planning and Coordination. She also expressed appreciation to partners from the Pacific Community Development Forum (PCDF) and other collaborators for their ongoing support of this significant annual event.
This initiative reflects a strong commitment to building resilient communities equipped to face potential disasters head-on, ensuring a safer future for everyone. The collaborative efforts of government bodies and partners illustrate the power of community involvement and education in disaster preparedness.
In summary, the NDAW 2024 emphasizes the importance of educating communities about disaster risk management, fostering resilience, and preparing for future challenges by engaging younger generations in these crucial efforts.
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