MINISTER DITOKA’S REMARKS AT THE NDAW OPENING

17/10/2023


Special Representative of the UN Secretary General for UNDRR,
 
Her Excellency the NZ High Commissioner,
 
Her Excellency the Australia Deputy High Commissioner,
 
Visting Participants and experts,
 
Our online viewers,
 
Ladies and gentlemen,
 
Ni sa bula Vinaka,
 
  1. It is indeed a pleasure to see such a substantial turnout as we assemble today to observe Fiji’s National Disaster Awareness Week festivities. As of last week, we have officially announced the 2023-2024 cyclone season forecast –– a timeframe now characterized by extraordinarily powerful storms that have the capacity to eradicate years of infrastructure advancement in a mere matter of hours.
 
  1. This week is not merely a collection of events; it is a call to action, a reminder of our collective duty to safeguard our beloved nation against the perils of nature and human-made disasters. Fiji, as a nation of islands and diverse communities, has long experienced the unpredictable forces of Mother Nature. Cyclones, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, and other disasters have left their mark on our history. But we, as Fijians, have shown our strength, resilience, and unity in the face of adversity time and again.
 
  1. The National Disaster Awareness Week (NDAW) is the cornerstone of our preparedness efforts. It is organized by the National Management Office (NDMO) each year to educate the public about crucial life-saving information on how to prepare themselves, their families, and their communities for the cyclone season. This event serves as a platform for us to collaborate, share experiences, and advocate for a unified approach as we enter the cyclone season. It's an opportunity for all of us to work together and be better prepared for potential disasters.
 
  1. The National Disaster Awareness Week is more than just an event on the calendar. It is an embodiment of our commitment to a safer and more secure future. It is a time for us to come together, to learn, to share, and to remember that disaster preparedness is not the responsibility of one, but the duty of all.
 
  1. This week is about awareness, about knowledge, about unity, and about action. It is about understanding the risks we face, knowing how to respond when disaster strikes, and working together to build a more resilient nation. It is a time to acknowledge the vital role that each and every one of us plays in our community's safety. We must also remember that we are not alone in this endeavor.
 
  1. Our government, civil society, humanitarian partners, and international organizations here today also stand with us in our mission to reduce the risks posed by disasters. Collaboration, both nationally and internationally, is essential in creating a safer future for Fiji.
 
  1. During this week, we will focus on various aspects of disaster preparedness and resilience. We will educate our citizens, conduct tsunami drills, urban and marine search rescue and share information that can save lives in times of crisis. We will also celebrate our achievements in disaster risk reduction and honor those who have shown exceptional dedication in this field.
 
  1. As we embark on this week, let us remember that the safety and well-being of our families and communities depend on our collective actions. Let us use this opportunity to reflect on our past experiences, learn from them, and work together to build a more secure future.
 
  1. Ladies and Gentlemen, the theme for this year's Disaster Awareness Week is Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future. It is an imperative topic that not only underscores the challenges we face but also the immense potential we have to create a more equitable and resilient world. In the realm of disaster risk reduction, we often discuss strategies, early warning systems, and preparedness. While these are undeniably crucial, we must also recognize that disasters do not affect all individuals or communities equally. Inequality amplifies the impact of disasters and exacerbates the vulnerability of the marginalized and disadvantaged among us.
 
  1. Inequality comes in various forms, be it economic, social, or geographical. Those with fewer resources and less access to services face disproportionate suffering during and after disasters. When disaster strikes, it is the poor, the marginalized, and the underprivileged who are most severely affected. Their struggle to recover and rebuild becomes a herculean task.
 
  1. Today, we must collectively address this injustice. Disaster risk reduction is not just about making communities more resilient to natural hazards; it is also about ensuring that the benefits of resilience are equitably distributed. A resilient future must be inclusive and considerate of the most vulnerable.
 
  1. We must prioritize the needs of the disadvantaged in our disaster risk reduction efforts. This means tailoring our strategies to reach the most vulnerable, providing them with access to resources, information, and support. We should enhance disaster preparedness and response mechanisms specifically for those at risk. This includes creating targeted early warning systems, emergency shelters, and recovery programs to ensure that no one is left behind.
 
  1. Moreover, we should invest in education and awareness programs that empower all members of our society. Knowledge is a powerful tool that can help communities make informed decisions and take action in times of crisis.
 
  1. International cooperation also plays a significant role in fighting inequality. The global community must support nations that are more susceptible to disasters and provide assistance that promotes resilience, equitable development, and shared knowledge.
 
  1. In conclusion, Fiji's National Disaster Awareness Week is a call to action, a time to come together as a nation and build a culture of preparedness and resilience. Let us seize this moment to equip ourselves with the knowledge and skills to protect our loved ones and our beautiful country.
 
Thank You, Vinaka Vakalevu and Dhanyavaad
and let us work together for a safer, more resilient Fiji.