NDMO Highlights Preparation Activities for the 2021-2022 Cyclone Season

SUVA- The Fiji National Disaster Management Office convened meetings with development partners and members of the Fiji Clusters last week to brief them about preparations for the 2021-2022 Cyclone Season.

In a meeting with the Fiji Cluster members, Acting Permanent Secretary for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mr. Manasa Lesuma emphasised that the meeting was an opportune time for the NDMO to provide the cluster members a brief overview about the cyclone seasonal outlook released by the Fiji Meteorological Services, and also highlight key preparedness activities undertaken by the Office.

During the meetings, the team also revisited the Disaster Management structure in Fiji to clarify how the NDMO operated before, during and after disasters, especially taking into consideration the need to adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols.

“On behalf of the Ministry, I would like to thank you all for your continuous support in the past disasters’ operations.

“-#OnlyTogether”, which is the theme for this year’s National Disaster Awareness Week (NDAW) – we can achieve more in our efforts to reduce disaster risks and their impacts,” Mr Lesuma said.

“The Ministry looks forward to coordinate better and enhance our efficiency and effectiveness both in preparedness and response.”

The meeting with donor partners was held earlier today, with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

While addressing representatives from various donor partners who virtually attended the meeting, Mr. Lesuma reiterated the call by the Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Inia Seruiratu at the recent launch of the National Disaster Awareness Week (NDAW) when he said that “Only Together” could we ensure that “we make an impact, producing the ultimate behavioral change and mindset, nationally and globally”.

The two meetings also provided a platform for the Cluster members and donor partners to share key information or progress updates about the work they are doing as we enter into the new cyclone season.