The upgraded risk-informed evacuation center was inaugurated for the residents of Yalobi in Waya, Yasawa on Wednesday. This facility can accommodate over 200 individuals during future disasters.
The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management constructed the center in collaboration with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) as part of the Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific project (Gov4Res), with an investment of more than FJ$60,000.
This center is designed to address various risks faced by vulnerable community members in Yalobi, including accessible ramps for individuals with disabilities, an indoor kitchen, washrooms, and solar lighting.
These enhancements aim to protect the safety and security of women, children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities in case of natural disasters. Attendees at the inauguration shared their harrowing memories of Tropical Cyclone Bebe in 1972, during which they trekked uphill for three hours to find shelter in a cave.
In recent emergencies, residents have had to seek refuge in their homes due to the absence of a designated evacuation facility. The community expressed their gratitude to the Government, donors, and UNDP for this timely project, which they believe will significantly enhance their safety and well-being.
Jovesa Vocea, the Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, highlighted the critical role of risk-informed rural and maritime developments in ensuring long-term resilience. He stated that the Yalobi Risk Informed Evacuation Centre symbolizes the Ministry’s dedication to making all development initiatives risk-informed.
Vocea remarked, “The Yalobi Evacuation Centre is a lifeline for the residents of this village, not merely a building.” He also noted that, in peaceful times, the center will serve as a hub for community initiatives designed to empower local residents, particularly women and youth.
Furthermore, the center will host various socio-economic activities aimed at strengthening the Yalobi community. Nicola Glendining, Project Manager of UNDP Pacific Gov4Res, expressed pride in collaborating with the Ministry to enhance the resilience of rural communities in Fiji and to implement the Ministry’s strategic priorities.