An upgraded risk-informed evacuation centre was inaugurated for the villagers of Yalobi in Waya, Yasawa on Wednesday. This facility will provide shelter for over 200 individuals during future disasters.
The centre was constructed by the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, in collaboration with the UN Development Programme’s Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific project, with an investment exceeding FJ$60,000.
The facility is designed to mitigate multiple risks faced by vulnerable community members, featuring accessibility ramps for individuals with disabilities, an indoor kitchen, washrooms, and solar lighting. These enhancements aim to ensure the safety and security of women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities in the event of natural disasters.
At the inauguration, local residents recalled the harrowing experience of evacuating during Tropical Cyclone Bebe in 1972, which required them to trek uphill for three hours to find refuge in a cave. In more recent disasters, families lacked a proper evacuation facility and had to take shelter in their own homes. Villagers expressed their gratitude toward the Government, donors, and UNDP for this support, highlighting its positive impact on their safety and well-being.
Jovesa Vocea, Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, underscored the significance of risk-informed development in rural and maritime sectors for long-term resilience. He stated that the Yalobi Risk Informed Evacuation Centre symbolizes the Ministry’s commitment to integrating risk management into all development initiatives.
Vocea emphasized, “The Yalobi Evacuation Centre is a lifeline for the residents of this village, not merely a building,” noting that the centre would also serve as a hub for community initiatives aimed at empowering local women and youth during peaceful times.
Furthermore, the centre will facilitate various socio-economic activities aimed at uplifting the Yalobi community.
Nicola Glendining, Project Manager of the UNDP Pacific Gov4Res, reiterated UNDP’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management to bolster the resilience of rural communities in Fiji while supporting the Ministry’s strategic goals.