A new chapter in safety and community resilience was marked at Rokovuaka Village in Ra with the official opening of a purpose-built, inclusive Category 5 Multipurpose Evacuation Centre.
The construction of the centre is part of the efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and protect vulnerable communities across Fiji.
The centre was constructed with funding from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and delivered through the Strengthening National and Community Resilience to Displacement Risks in the Republic of Fiji project, led by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in close collaboration with the Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO), the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, and Save the Children Fiji.
Rokovuaka was selected as one of eight priority sites for this initiative after assessments were carried out in over 30 locations.
Minister for Rural and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka says as a key output of the national project, this initiative aims to reduce vulnerabilities, increase preparedness and build the capacity of communities to respond effectively to both natural and human-induced disasters.
He says the initiative is a powerful example of what can be achieved when local leadership, national coordination and international partnership come together for a common goal.
KOICA Country Director for Fiji and the Pacific Hankyulsam Cho says this centre marks a significant milestone in their joint journey to enhance preparedness and build stronger and safer communities.
She says the Rokovuaka Multipurpose Evacuation Centre is not only a centre constructed under their project but also a symbol of the collective dedication of all.
Cho says the centre is intended to serve as an accessible and multifunctional space.
She adds that through this project, they aim to enhance disaster preparedness at the national, local and most importantly, community level.
She says this centre stands as a testament to the strong partnership between the government of Korea and Fiji.
Cho says Korea understands the importance of investing in long-term resilience, and through KOICA, the government of Korea is proud to stand behind the people of Fiji.
IOM Chief of Mission and Sub-Regional Coordinator for the South Pacific Solomon Kantha highlighted that the centre’s design was informed by local consultation and universal access standards, ensuring it will serve not only as a disaster shelter, but also as a vital hub for community events, learning, and recovery.
He says it can safely accommodate up to 200 people in times of need.
He adds that the key features include category 5 cyclone-resistant, gender-segregated and accessible WASH facilities (8 toilets, 6 showers, 5 handwashing stations), a fully equipped kitchen with gas stove, fridge, and food prep space, a child-friendly library and psychosocial support area, 15,000-litre water storage capacity and power connection and inclusive design with ramps, cross-ventilation, and ceiling fans.
Beyond infrastructure, the project has also supported community training in evacuation centre management, hazard and vulnerability assessments, first aid and child protection in emergencies and climate-smart agriculture and livelihoods.
The Rokovuaka Multipurpose Evacuation Centre stands as a shared achievement, an enduring symbol of partnership, preparedness, and people-centred resilience.
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