Disasters affect everyone equally, regardless of circumstances. This was the key message from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, during his opening remarks at the recent Disaster Risk Resilience Scorecard Workshop for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) held in Suva.
Mr. Gavoka emphasized that disasters have widespread effects, impacting communities, infrastructure, and essential industries. He noted the importance of fortifying homes and protecting livelihoods as a means of ensuring the greater ecosystem, particularly vital sectors like tourism, remains intact. “Our ability to recover swiftly and effectively after a crisis safeguards not just the industry but the thousands of lives it supports,” he remarked.
The workshop was described as crucial for enhancing Fiji’s capacity to tackle challenges, ensuring the nation continues to be a safe and reliable destination for tourists while creating opportunities for local residents. Over the course of three days, participants will engage in discussions aligned with the Sendai Framework, identify areas for improvement, and formulate actionable strategies utilizing the Disaster Resilience Scorecard designed for SIDS.
“This workshop presents an opportunity to influence policies that defend our people, enhance our infrastructure, and protect our environment,” he shared. The insights gleaned from this collaborative effort are expected to become a foundation for improving livelihoods, preserving industries, and safeguarding communities.
Participants included individuals from various organizations such as the Disaster Management Office, the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), Excelsia University College, and the Global Development College, highlighting a combined effort towards building a more resilient future.
In a world where natural disasters are increasingly frequent, this initiative represents a proactive step towards safeguarding communities and industries, ensuring a hopeful outlook for future resilience in the face of adversity.
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