President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has honored the Fiji Red Cross Society for its remarkable 70 years of service, particularly during crises. During a meeting at State House with Board Chair Mrs. Sala Toganivalu Lesuma and Director General Ms. Ragigia Dawai, he recognized their dedication to supporting Fijian communities.
Having previously overseen disaster management as a minister, President Lalabalavu highlighted the Red Cross’s essential role following natural disasters and health emergencies, including their swift action during the COVID-19 pandemic. He commended the organization’s preparedness, noting their strategically located containers filled with emergency supplies.
Mrs. Lesuma took the opportunity to invite the President to serve as Patron of the Fiji Red Cross Society, a traditional role held by the Head of State, which he graciously accepted. This reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between the Society and the Fijian Government.
Originally part of the British Red Cross before independence, the Fiji Red Cross became a national organization in 1972 when Fiji ratified the Geneva Conventions. Today, it boasts a network of 8,000 trained volunteers dedicated to community service in all five divisions.
Director General Dawai elaborated on the Society’s emphasis on community-based disaster preparedness and climate resilience, especially in remote areas with limited government services. She emphasized their proactive approach through training local volunteers to manage evacuation centers and protect vulnerable groups during crises.
The Fiji Red Cross remains influential as one of the few civil society organizations represented on the National Disaster Management Council, highlighting its critical role during national emergencies. This organization’s commitment not only ensures immediate response during crises but also helps in fostering community awareness and resilience, showcasing the strength of the Fijian spirit in times of adversity.
The collective efforts of the Red Cross, combined with community participation, provide a hopeful outlook for disaster management and recovery in Fiji, strengthening societal ties and preparedness for future challenges.
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