In a bid to help communities around Fiji be disaster ready,the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster management today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Peace Corps to help implement initiatives that will benefit various communities.
And Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Sakiasi Ditoka said it was important the rural communities are resilient and holistically ready when disaster posed a threat.
“One of our key strategic priority area is raising the standard of living and growing the rural economy in ensuring that rural and maritime communities in Fiji are productive, progressive, safe, and resilient.”
“The work undertaken by the Peace Corps Volunteers in the rural communities are in line with our key rural deliverables and this partnership agreement will enhance our future cooperation and collaboration for more sustainable and impactful program.”
Director of Peace Corps Carol Spahn said the organization was determined to help Fijian citizens be resilient and ready to overcome the difficulties that came with living in the rural area when there is a disaster.
“We live in a world whose climate is changing and at an ever more rapid pace, threatening our delicate ocean ecosystem, our agriculture, infrastructure, communities, livelihoods and our heritage.”
“It is now more important than ever that we work together to invest the socio economic growth of all our communities, so they and everyone living in them, have the tools and resources to compete in a global economy.”
Peace Corps volunteers will now be working with staff of the Ministry of Rural Development to conduct trainings and workshops for people enrolled under the Income Generating Projects in various communities around Fiji.
Photo: Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn with Permanent Secretary for Rural Development Isoa Talemaibau at the MOU signing in Suva today.
