The FIJI Water Foundation, a prominent philanthropic organization in Fiji, has officially launched its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program. This initiative aims to boost community resilience in the face of natural disasters and is being implemented in partnership with the Tikina Naiyalayala Development Committee.
During the launch event, Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, emphasized the importance of preparing for disasters, stating, “With the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters worldwide, comprehensive disaster preparedness and recovery strategies in Fiji are essential.” He noted that in the past decade, Fiji has endured over 15 cyclones, impacting more than 200,000 people and causing damages estimated at FJD $2 billion.
The Tikina Naiyalayala community has experienced significant challenges from cyclones, floods, and droughts, which have hindered health, housing, and livelihoods. The introduction of this robust disaster preparedness strategy is a crucial step towards enhancing the country’s ability to recover from such catastrophic events.
FIJI Water Foundation Director Semi Lotawa expressed pride in supporting the CERT initiative, which will equip communities with a detailed disaster management plan. He added that the CERT framework aims to empower six local villages in the Naiyalayala district, fostering collaboration and promoting sustainable practices for long-term disaster risk reduction and improved well-being for Fiji’s residents.
Joseph Naivalulevu from Rabulu Village highlighted the significance of the training, indicating that the six villages in Tikina Naiyalayala collectively have over 600 households and deal with isolation. He remarked that the CERT training will enhance the knowledge of the youth and empower communities to respond effectively during disasters.
Ditoka encouraged surrounding communities to use Tikina Naiyalayala as a model for disaster preparedness, which could strengthen the national capacity to endure and recover from future natural disasters.
The FIJI Water Foundation operates as part of The Wonderful Company, a privately owned enterprise worth USD $6 billion, founded by philanthropists Lynda and Stewart Resnick. The Resnicks have dedicated over USD $2.5 billion to global philanthropic efforts, focusing on education, health, housing, infrastructure, the arts, and sustainability, all aimed at making a significant impact in regions including California’s Central Valley and Fiji. Since its establishment in 2007, the FIJI Water Foundation has invested more than FJD $35 million in community development projects related to safe water access, health, education, and environmental sustainability.