Vinay Narsey, the President of the Fiji Commerce and Employment Federation (FCEF), is urging the private sector to enhance its collaboration in boosting resilience against natural disasters in Fiji. His appeal was made during the handover of disaster awareness materials to the Ministry of Education, showcasing a commitment to disaster preparedness in schools and local communities.

“It’s all about partnership and collaboration, which are essential to achieving effective outcomes,” Mr. Narsey emphasized. He underscored that integrating efforts between the private sector and civil society is vital for risk reduction and recovery, enabling businesses to withstand and respond to catastrophes.

Fiji is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of natural disasters, facing numerous challenges in this regard. Mr. Narsey pointed out that the private sector possesses essential resources, expertise, and reach to significantly contribute to disaster response and recovery strategies. “As businesses, we have a vested interest in ensuring our operations continue, safeguarding our employees, and protecting the communities we serve,” he affirmed.

The disaster preparedness initiatives by FCEF are carried out under the Fiji Business Disaster Resilience Council (FBDRC), which collaborates with the National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) and the UN’s Connecting Business Initiatives (CBi). This partnership aims to galvanize efforts toward fostering a culture of readiness among students and families throughout the nation.

Similar initiatives have previously been seen, such as recent campaigns that successfully reached over 50,000 homes and nearly 70,000 students nationwide. As the cyclone season approaches, these proactive measures reflect a growing commitment to ensuring that citizens are better equipped to manage potential disasters.

Through continued collaboration and strong community engagement, there is hope for a more resilient Fiji. By emphasizing education and preparedness, the collective efforts of these organizations are expected to not only elevate awareness but also instill confidence in the community’s ability to face future challenges. This unified approach signals a brighter, safer path forward for all Fijians as they navigate the uncertainties of natural disasters and climate change.