An upgraded risk-informed evacuation center was inaugurated for the residents of Yalobi in Waya, Yasawa, on Wednesday. The facility is designed to accommodate over 200 individuals during future emergencies.
Developed 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 was built at a cost exceeding FJ$60,000.
This new infrastructure addresses various risks volunteers face within the Yalobi community, featuring ramps for accessibility for people with disabilities, an indoor kitchen, washrooms, and solar lighting.
These enhancements aim to ensure the safety of women, children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities during natural disasters.
Local residents recounted the harrowing experience of Tropical Cyclone Bebe in 1972, when they had to trek uphill for three hours to find shelter in a cave. In recent emergencies, villagers have been forced to stay in their homes due to the lack of adequate evacuation options. They expressed their gratitude toward the Government and the UNDP for this vital support, which they believe will significantly enhance their safety and well-being.
Jovesa Vocea, the Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, highlighted the necessity of incorporating risk assessments into rural and maritime development to ensure long-term resilience.
Vocea stated that the Yalobi Risk Informed Evacuation Centre exemplifies the Ministry’s dedication to making all development initiatives risk-informed. He remarked, “The Yalobi Evacuation Centre is a lifeline for the residents of this village, not merely a building.”
According to Vocea, the center will also serve as a hub for community activities that empower locals, particularly women and youth. Furthermore, the facility will host various socio-economic initiatives aimed at supporting the Yalobi community.
Nicola Glendining, Project Manager of the UNDP Pacific Gov4Res initiative, expressed pride in their partnership with the Ministry to enhance the resilience of rural communities in Fiji and to carry out the Ministry’s strategic objectives.