A significant leadership transition has taken place in the Pacific region, with Fiji passing the baton of DRM Chairmanship to Palau. This handover, which occurred during the DRM Ministers' Meeting, marks a pivotal moment in the region's journey towards disaster resilience.
Fiji's Director of the National Disaster Risk Management Office, Napolioni Boseiwaqa, emphasized Fiji's dedication to supporting Palau and continuing the vital work of bolstering disaster resilience across the Pacific. Boseiwaqa acknowledged that while Pacific leaders have established a Ministerial Champion role for DRM, achieving substantial progress demands a unified regional effort.
Reflecting on Fiji's tenure as chair, Boseiwaqa highlighted how the period reinforced the region's commitment to reform, preparedness, and resilience. These principles, he noted, are deeply rooted in shared experiences and a collective vision to ensure no one is left vulnerable.
A key milestone during Fiji's chairmanship was the passing of the National Disaster Risk Management Act last year, which replaced the outdated 1998 legislation. This new Act introduces a coordinated governance framework through the National DRM Council and Emergency Committee, formalizes the Humanitarian Cluster System, and enhances coordination and standards-based assistance during disasters.
Boseiwaqa also stressed the importance of investing in preparedness to minimize the impact of disasters on communities and critical sectors. He cited initiatives like the Early Warning for All Program, through which Fiji and its partners have identified priority areas for investment across the four early warning pillars, developing tailored early action solutions to meet local needs.
In his address, Boseiwaqa called on Pacific leaders to commit to concrete policy reforms, inclusive planning, and sustained investment to fortify resilience across the region.
The DRM Ministers' Meeting is currently in progress, with leaders reviewing the progress made since the inaugural meeting in Nadi and charting a course towards a safer and more resilient Pacific.
As the Pacific region navigates the complexities of disaster risk management, the handover of DRM Chairmanship from Fiji to Palau signifies a critical step in the region's collective journey towards resilience and preparedness.
Stay tuned for more updates from the DRM Ministers' Meeting, as leaders shape the future of disaster resilience in the Pacific.
