Uniting for Resilience: A Call to Action for Fiji’s Future

Acting Minister for Disaster Management, Viliame Gavoka, emphasized that disaster resilience should not fall solely on the government during his speech at the Disaster Risk Resilience Scorecard Workshop for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) held in Suva. He highlighted the need for collective responsibility among all sectors of society, including leaders, educators, business owners, non-profits, and citizens, to actively participate in shaping a secure future.

Gavoka pointed out the various challenges that Small Island Developing States face, such as climate change and natural disasters, stating that these issues serve as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration rather than a defining limit. He noted that Fiji has experienced the devastating effects of natural disasters, and workshops like this enhance understanding, strengthen frameworks, and promote cooperation between different levels of governance and communities.

The scorecard presented in the workshop is described as a vital tool guiding Fiji toward measurable improvements in its disaster resilience. Gavoka urged participants to take decisive actions that would safeguard livelihoods, protect industries, and position Fiji as a leader in resilience and adaptation on an international scale.

He concluded with an optimistic view, encouraging participants to utilize the workshop’s platform to contribute ideas that would help shape a resilient Fiji capable of not just enduring hardship but thriving in the face of it.

This article highlights the importance of community engagement and the collective effort required to build resilience in the face of natural disasters, showcasing a proactive approach to tackling significant challenges. This collaborative initiative offers hope for a more robust and unified response to the issues faced by Small Island Developing States.

In summary, the message from the workshop is clear: disaster resilience is a shared responsibility that calls for active participation from every sector of society to ensure a thriving future for Fiji.