Fiji’s Climate Response: Are Capacity Issues Holding Us Back?

Luke Rokovada, chairman of the Public Service Commission, has pointed out that efforts to address climate change in Fiji are often hindered by challenges related to capacity and resources at the policy level. Speaking at a climate change and capacity-building workshop in Suva organized by the Fiji Public Service Association, he emphasized the importance of public accessibility to climate change response information, a requirement mandated by the Climate Change Act.

Rokovada highlighted the necessity for public consultations and reiterated that ministries must incorporate climate change considerations and community climate response needs into their national budget submissions. He noted that while strategic development plans are crucial for governance, their effectiveness relies heavily on strategic communication and meaningful engagement with the public.

He remarked that good governance is fundamental to a functional democracy, impacting how resources and powers are managed for national development. During his address, he pointed out that climate change significantly affects various sectors, including healthcare. The strain this places on emergency services, civil servants, and public utilities is a pressing concern in need of resolution.

The Climate Change Act of 2021 acknowledges these challenges and establishes a framework for reforming governance structures and decision-making processes to better integrate climate change initiatives within government operations and policies. Additionally, Rokovada noted that Section 24 of the Act outlines the processes required to reassess the performance indicators and job descriptions of civil servants. This ensures that staff are adequately prepared to manage climate-related risks and fulfill the objectives set forth by the Climate Change Act.

As Fiji confronts the realities of climate change, the insights from Rokovada’s remarks underline the importance of enhancing capacity and resource allocation within the framework of good governance. This could potentially lead to more comprehensive climate action efforts, benefiting both the environment and the communities in Fiji.

In summary, addressing the key challenges of capacity and resources is vital for Fiji’s success in implementing effective climate change measures. By fostering public engagement and ensuring proper training and governance reforms, Fiji could enhance its resilience against climate impacts while promoting sustainable development.