In a notable advancement for the Yasawa community, the inauguration of a new evacuation center in Yalobi Village on Wednesday signifies a remarkable progression from past experiences.
Villagers recall the harrowing ordeal of Hurricane Bebe in 1972, when they had to transport the elderly, women, and children to a cave for safety. The newly established center eliminates the need for such dangerous journeys, enhancing disaster preparedness in the area.
The new facility was officially opened by the Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Jovesa Vocea. It received a total investment of $62,139, which includes a $29,433 contribution from the government to upgrade the existing structure.
Mr. Vocea expressed gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme Governance for Resilience Project (UNDP Gov4Res) for their generous funding of $32,706 under the Risk-Informed Development initiative. He emphasized the ongoing collaboration between the UNDP Gov4Res Project and the government, particularly the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management.
He commended the villagers for their efforts, noting, “Your commitment to build this original facility with a $47,000 full community contribution is commendable. Your hands have built a place of refuge and safety, where your families, friends, and neighbors can find shelter and protection in times of need. This center is a lifeline for about 200 people living in this village, and those coming after them. It is a place of hope, safety, and security.”
Village headman Nacanieli Vakalagilagi stated that the facility will safeguard their community against various disasters. He pointed out that Yalobi Village’s geographical location makes it particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, including cyclones and flooding. He recalled the painful memories of seeking refuge in a cave during Hurricane Bebe, which is located about two kilometers from the village. “Those painful memories will be a story of the past as we celebrate this milestone achievement,” he remarked.
The evacuation center features a two-sided porch, a new kitchen, separate toilet and bathroom facilities, ramps for disability access, two 10,000-liter rainwater storage tanks, kitchen utensils, tables and chairs, and a new solar electrification system.