A newly upgraded evacuation center has been inaugurated for the residents of Yalobi in Waya, Yasawa. This facility, designed to accommodate over 200 people, will serve as a refuge during future natural disasters.
Constructed by the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management in collaboration with the UN Development Programme’s Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific project, the center cost more than FJ$60,000.
The center is equipped to mitigate various risks faced by vulnerable community members, including those with disabilities. It features ramps for accessibility, an indoor kitchen, washrooms, and solar lighting. These enhancements will help ensure the safety and security of women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities in the event of a disaster.
During the inauguration, local residents recounted the harrowing experience of Tropical Cyclone Bebe in 1972, when they had to trek uphill for three hours to find sanctuary in a cave. In recent disasters, villagers often had to stay in their own homes due to the lack of an appropriate evacuation facility. The community expressed their appreciation to the Government, donors, and UNDP for this vital support, highlighting its role in improving their safety and well-being.
Jovesa Vocea, the Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, underscored the importance of integrating risk considerations into rural and maritime development plans to enhance long-term resilience.
Vocea stated that the new evacuation center represents the government’s commitment to ensuring all development initiatives take risks into account. He described it as a “lifeline” for Yalobi’s residents, emphasizing that beyond emergencies, the center will also serve as a hub for community initiatives aimed at empowering local women and youth.
The facility is intended for various socio-economic activities to benefit the Yalobi community. Nicola Glendining, Project Manager of UNDP Pacific Gov4Res, expressed pride in collaborating with the Ministry to bolster the resilience of rural communities in Fiji and support the Ministry’s strategic priorities.