A significant milestone was achieved in Maumi Village, Dravo, Tailevu, with the groundbreaking ceremony for a new multi-purpose evacuation center held on February 26, 2025. The ceremony was led by Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka.
Minister Ditoka emphasized that the design of this evacuation center is particularly inclusive, catering to vulnerable populations including women, children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. The center is intended to serve as a refuge during natural disasters while also functioning as a hub for community business initiatives, thereby aiding local development.
He expressed gratitude to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Government of Korea for their generous funding, highlighting that the center is a component of a broader effort aimed at enhancing disaster resilience in the region. The facility will provide essential training in disaster management through collaboration with IOM and will include programs focused on improving the safety of women and children in partnership with Save the Children.
Total project funding amounts to $739,000, with the center expected to benefit not only the residents of Maumi but also surrounding communities, thus establishing a sustainable legacy of safety and support against future natural disasters and the effects of climate change.
This initiative resonates with recent developments, such as the opening of the Yavusania Retrofitted Evacuation Centre in Nadi, which was similarly financed by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and targets vulnerable communities to enhance their disaster resilience. Both projects signify a robust commitment to advancing community preparedness in response to environmental challenges.
The establishment of these facilities represents a hopeful stride toward creating safer, more resilient communities, demonstrating dedication to protecting those at greatest risk in emergencies while also fostering economic and social growth.
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