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The Fijian government has acknowledged the relief assistance provided by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), saying it would help uplift the lives of those in the Lau Group in the Eastern Divisions, affected by Tropical Cyclones Sarai and Tino.
The Fiji National Disaster Management team and government officials have been deployed to the Southern Lau Group to provide relief supplies to families who have been affected by the recent natural disasters.
Damage assessment
Through this partnership, MFAT and New Zealand High Commission in Fiji are working closely with the Fiji National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in conducting a detailed damaged assessment in the Lau Island Group and also in the procurement and delivery of food rations targeting 5412 people for one month.
The assistance worth F$ 254,471.40 is provided through the New Zealand Aid Programme.
In commending this assistance, Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Minister Inia Seruiratu conveyed his government’s appreciation and gratitude to the New Zealand Government.
Mr Seruiratu said that the assistance will contribute significantly towards rehabilitation efforts and rebuilding the livelihood of families affected by TC Sarai and TC Tino.
Reflection of commitment
Mr Seruiratu said that the assistance by New Zealand is a reflection of the country’s commitment and support for the welfare and wellbeing of the Fijian people.
As neighbours in the Pacific region, Fiji and New Zealand have demonstrated great partnership in building economic resilience and sustainable development.
Fiji and New Zealand also share a common vision in the area of resilience building and climate change adaptation as seen through the strong leadership of Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama and Jacinda Ardern, respectively Prime Minister of Fiji and New Zealand.
Rehabilitation Programme
The Fiji National Disaster Management Office is coordinating the rehabilitation programme for Lau Group through a multi-partner mission consisting of a dedicated team of approximately 80 personnel, including officials from NDMO, Commissioner for Eastern Office, Roko Tui Lau Office, Fiji Red Cross, Education, RFMF, Ministry of Health, Water Authority of Fiji, Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Energy, Offices of the Prime Minister (Construction Implementation Unit), Department of Government Buildings and Architect, Fiji Roads Authority, Telecom Fiji, Agriculture Marketing Authority, Department of Energy, Department of Housing, Ministry of Women, University of the South Pacific – School of Geospatial Science and Fiji Council of Social Services.
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Photo Caption:
New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Fiji Jonathan Curr (fifth from left) with officials of Fiji National Disaster Management Office at the Suva Seaport on January 21, 2020 (Facebook Picture)
