Fiji - The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Fiji Mission and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), on 12 April handed over the retrofitted evacuation centre in Natadradave, Fiji, marking a crucial step in enhancing disaster resilience within the community.

The retrofitting of the centre was initiated in response to the critical need for disaster resilient infrastructure, which can serve as a multi-purpose centre during times of disaster. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Hankyulsam Cho, the Country Director from KOICA Fiji said, "May this centre stand as a beacon of hope and resilience, demonstrating what can be achieved when we unite with a shared purpose."

A key goal of the retrofitting was to ensure that the evacuation centre met international standards and local building codes for disaster shelters with enhanced protection and inclusion. The outcome of these efforts not only ensures the physical safety of individuals during disasters but also promotes inclusivity and cohesion within the community. People with disabilities, often marginalized in emergency response efforts, now have improved access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, including a new septic tank and a new accessible toilet, with additional accessibility enhancements such as handrails, steps, and access ramps.

Isoa Talemaibua, the Permanent Secretary from the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management said, “This handover ceremony symbolizes a significant milestone in community resilience and inclusivity.”

The retrofitting was implemented under the humanitarian project funded by KOICA, which aims to strengthen national and community resilience to disaster and displacement risks in the Republic of Fiji.

In collaboration with NDMO and KOICA, Solomon Kantha, IOM Chief of Mission in Fiji emphasized the organization’s “continued commitment to working with communities in Fiji to strengthen resilience to disaster and displacement.”

For more information, please contact Matthew Bidder at IOM Fiji, at Email: mbidder@iom.int.

SDGs: 10, 17