Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, recently addressed the pressing issue of disaster management during the opening of the Disaster Risk Resilience Scorecard Workshop for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in Suva. He emphasized that disasters do not favor any group, affecting communities, infrastructure, and vital industries alike.
Gavoka underscored the importance of reinforcing homes and livelihoods as a means of protecting critical sectors, such as tourism, which is integral to Fiji’s economy. He stated, “Our ability to recover swiftly and effectively after a crisis safeguards not just the industry but the thousands of lives it supports.” The Deputy Prime Minister iterated that the workshop was an essential platform to enhance the nation’s capacity to face challenges and maintain Fiji’s reputation as a safe destination for tourists.
Over the course of three days, participants will delve into important topics aligned with the Sendai Framework, identify gaps in current strategies, and devise actionable plans through the Disaster Resilience Scorecard for SIDS. Gavoka highlighted that this workshop represents a significant opportunity to formulate policies that protect citizens, bolster infrastructure, and ensure environmental preservation.
The event saw participation from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Disaster Management office, the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), Excelsia University College, and the Global Development College. Together, their collective insights aim to lay the groundwork for enhancing livelihoods, conserving industries, and defending communities against the inevitability of disasters.
This initiative reflects a proactive approach, demonstrating that even in the face of challenges, communities can come together to build resilience and safeguard their futures.
In summary, the workshop serves as an important step towards fostering disaster resilience in Fiji, emphasizing collaboration among different sectors to ensure comprehensive preparation and recovery strategies for the betterment of society.
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