The FIJI Water Foundation, one of the largest philanthropic organizations in Fiji, has announced the introduction of Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. This initiative aims to bolster community resilience against natural disasters and is being implemented in partnership with the Tikina Naiyalayala Development Committee.
At the launch event, Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness, stating that the increasing frequency and intensity of global natural disasters highlights the need for effective recovery mechanisms in Fiji. He noted that over the past ten years, Fiji has endured more than 15 cyclones, impacting over 200,000 residents and causing approximately FJD $2 billion in damages.
Ditoka praised the FIJI Water Foundation for its commitment to community resilience and empowerment, recognizing its collaborative projects as essential for meaningful change. The Tikina Naiyalayala region, known for its vibrant community and cultural richness, has faced significant challenges from cyclones, floods, and droughts, which have affected health, housing, and livelihoods.
The newly launched comprehensive disaster preparedness plan aims to facilitate a resilient recovery for the nation in the face of catastrophic events. Semi Lotawa, Director of the FIJI Water Foundation, expressed pride in supporting the CERT initiative, which will equip communities with a thorough disaster management strategy. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the foundation’s objectives to provide important resources for proactive disaster response management.
The CERT framework is set to benefit six neighboring villages in the Naiyalayala district, empowering them with skills that promote collaboration and sustainable practices for long-term disaster risk reduction and overall well-being. Joseph Naivalulevu from Rabulu Village remarked on the significance of the training, stressing that the CERT program will enhance the knowledge of local youth and empower their communities to respond effectively during disasters.
Ditoka encouraged other communities to look to Tikina Naiyalayala as a model for disaster preparedness, enhancing the nation’s resilience against future natural disasters. The FIJI Water Foundation is part of The Wonderful Company, a privately held global entity valued at USD $6 billion, founded by philanthropists Lynda and Stewart Resnick.
The Resnicks, through The Wonderful Company, have invested over USD $2.5 billion in philanthropic and corporate social responsibility initiatives worldwide, focusing on education, health, affordable housing, infrastructure, the arts, and sustainability. Since its establishment in 2007, the FIJI Water Foundation has dedicated over FJD $35 million to community development, safe water access, education, health, wellness, and environmental sustainability.