The first disaster management workshop for Blue Pacific Continents commenced their weeklong sessions yesterday morning at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay Conference Centre.
Sarah Bearup, Chief Operating Officer for the World Vision South Asia Pacific regional office, emphasized the significance of locally led initiatives in humanitarian and development work.
“We have representatives from nine countries here, including some of our local World Vision staff and several local partners,” she stated.
“We are bringing everyone together this week.”
Bearup noted their goal to enhance the existing humanitarian ecosystem.
“We are focusing on strengthening capacity, particularly in disaster management, to equip everyone with the skills and tools needed to respond to disasters.
“This includes preparedness, mitigation, addressing environmental impacts, ensuring the rights of people during disasters, and providing dignified and effective responses,” she said.
The workshop will run for five days.