Sea-level rise and the irreversible consequences of climate change are posing significant risks to Pacific Island States, many of which are low-lying islands. This concern was addressed by Fiji’s President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, during his speech at the Welcoming Dinner for the 65th Workshop for Heads of National Productivity Organizations held in Nadi on Tuesday.
President Katonivere noted that Fiji is struggling to manage challenges brought on by natural disasters, particularly in terms of maintenance and relocation efforts. He urged stakeholders to take urgent action to combat climate change, as numerous communities in Fiji and the Pacific are in desperate need of assistance.
He stated, “By around 2050, 240 of our coastal communities will be displaced due to the rise in sea level, while 42 communities require immediate relocation. It is not an exaggeration to say that the situation is critical, making effective collaboration essential.”
While acknowledging the support from international partners, Ratu Wiliame emphasized that more needs to be done. He stressed the necessity for cooperative efforts among nations to achieve tangible results. “However, the actions of individual countries alone are insufficient. There needs to be internal collaboration to realize green productivity,” he remarked.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, also emphasized Fiji’s commitment to green productivity and the integration of artificial intelligence.
Kamikamica stated, “Fiji has the potential to concentrate on a circular economy and recycling. We have ambitious plans to develop green landfills, which could significantly enhance productivity in Fiji.”
He mentioned that Fiji now hosts its first AI Business Process Outsourcing center, operated by KPMG in collaboration with local youth, highlighting that artificial intelligence represents a frontier for advancing green productivity.
The workshop brought together Heads of National Productivity Organizations, Advisors from the Asian Productivity Organization, and other distinguished members to address challenges faced by the Pacific community in enhancing productivity and leveraging AI for future growth.
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