Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, has encouraged communities to take inspiration from the villages in the Naiyalayala district of Ra for disaster preparedness and resilience.
During his visit to Togovere Village in Ra, Ditoka launched Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training for five communities in the Naiyalayala region.
At the event, Ditoka emphasized that starting such initiatives can enhance the nation’s ability to withstand and recover from natural disasters.
The effort is a collaboration between the Tikina Naiyalayala Development Committee, the Fiji Water Foundation, and the US-based CERT, motivated by the need for a robust disaster preparedness plan.
“Our goal is to build community resilience, ensuring that our communities are equipped to face any challenges that arise. The Tikina of Naiyalayala has faced significant devastation from cyclones, floods, and droughts, impacting livelihoods, housing, and health,” Ditoka stated.
The training sessions, supported by the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), will complement the nationally adopted Community-Based Disaster Risk Management Manual. NDMO officers will assist with the CERT training to ensure it meets national standards.
This collaborative initiative aims to empower the community by equipping them with emergency response skills, including first aid, fire safety, and disaster management, while also promoting local leadership during crises.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Tikina Naiyalayala for their commitment to this mission. The Fiji Water Foundation remains dedicated to supporting the communities where its employees live and work. Their ongoing projects, such as enhancing community resilience through CERT in Tikina Naiyalayala, highlight their commitment to empowerment and resilience,” Ditoka added.
Through education and awareness initiatives, guided by CERT’s expertise and backed by the NDMO, the program aims to bolster community resilience to disasters and facilitate swift recovery.