The FIJI Water Foundation, one of Fiji’s major philanthropic organizations, has officially launched its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training initiative. This program aims to bolster community resilience against natural disasters and is introduced in partnership with the Tikina Naiyalayala Development Committee.
During the launch, Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, emphasized the increasing frequency and intensity of global natural disasters, stressing the urgent need for effective disaster preparedness and recovery strategies in Fiji. He noted that in the last decade, Fiji has endured over 15 cyclones, impacting more than 200,000 individuals and resulting in estimated damages of FJD $2 billion.
The commitment of the FIJI Water Foundation to enhance community resilience and empowerment is reflected in its various projects, showcasing how collaborative efforts can drive significant change.
The Tikina Naiyalayala area, rich in culture and community spirit, has not been immune to the impact of natural disasters, suffering from cyclones, floods, and droughts that have disrupted health, housing, and livelihoods. The new disaster preparedness strategy represents a significant advancement toward ensuring timely recovery before, during, and after calamities in Fiji.
Semi Lotawa, Director of the FIJI Water Foundation, expressed pride in supporting the CERT initiative, which aims to equip communities with a comprehensive disaster management plan. He noted that this initiative aligns with the foundation’s mission to provide essential tools and resources for proactive disaster management.
The CERT framework is set to empower six neighboring villages in the Naiyalayala district by cultivating collaboration and implementing sustainable practices that promote long-term disaster risk reduction and enhance overall well-being.
Joseph Naivalulevu from Rabulu Village commented on the importance of the training for the over 600 households in the Tikina Naiyalayala villages, highlighting the isolation of their community. He believes this CERT training will enrich the youth’s knowledge and enable 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 to future natural disasters.
The FIJI Water Foundation operates under The Wonderful Company, a privately held global company valued at USD $6 billion, founded by philanthropists Lynda and Stewart Resnick. The company has pledged over USD $2.5 billion towards philanthropic and corporate social responsibility initiatives, predominantly addressing issues in education, health, housing, infrastructure, arts, and sustainability to positively impact areas like California’s Central Valley and Fiji.
Since its inception in 2007, the FIJI Water Foundation has allocated more than FJD $35 million toward community development efforts, ensuring access to safe water, education, health, and environmental sustainability.