Almost 30 per cent of Fiji’s population is at risk from multiple hazards occurring simultaneously. Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Inia Seruiratu revealed this during the launch of the National Disaster Awareness Week in Suva this week.
“Historical analysis noted that Fiji, since 2000, have recorded over 60 people dying as a result of natural disasters, with an average of three cyclones now experienced yearly during a cyclone season,” he said.
“There is no secret that this is a direct result of climate change as rise in sea level has threatened the lives our coastal communities with more needing relocation and ever before.”
Mr Seruiratu said the nation must come together to prioritise disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation before progressing to the international arena.
“The theme for the 2021 National Disaster Awareness Week is #OnlyTogether and is aligned to the 2021 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, which centers on the seven targets under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. To date, 101 countries have developed national strategies for disaster risk reduction, but many small island developing nations like Fiji will still require international cooperation and support to implement these strategies. We need real action on disaster risk reduction and climate change in the years to come, as extreme weather events will be overwhelming.”
