The newly established National Logistics Cluster Coordination Centre (NLCCC) is testament to government’s growing commitment and emphasis towards better managing natural disasters.
National Disaster Management director Manasa Tagicakibau said the centre which is responsible for coordinating logistics during natural disasters, will also enable the provision of efficient and cost effective assistance to people affected by natural disasters.
Mr Tagicakibau said the centre will ease operational matters and boost the services of the National Disaster Management Office.
“The centre will enhance predictability, timeliness and efficiency of the logistics response to meet the needs of people affected by natural disasters,” Mr Tagicakibau said.
He added that the centre will also ensure that facilitation and distribution of resources during times of disasters will be handled in an accountable manner.
“This center promises various donors and aid agencies more accountability in the assistance give to the people of Fiji,” Mr Tagicakibau said.
Ministry of Finance acting permanent secretary Akosita Drova said the Fijian Government is continuously striving to enhance public sector efficiency, performance effectiveness and service delivery.
“One particular state of affairs that requires immense efficiency is reaching the people affected by a disaster. Therefore, the National Logistics Cluster Coordination Centre is a milestone achievement not only for the Fiji logistics cluster but also to the people of Fiji,” Ms Drova said.
Ms Drova highlighted that a vast input in terms of resources have been given by cluster partners with funding support from Fijian and Australian governments.
Cluster partners include water, sanitation and hygiene, education, health, safety and protection, food security and livelihoods, shelter and public works and utilities.
The centre which was opened yesterday is located at Walu Bay, Suva at the same building which previously housed the former Government Supplies department.
-End-