More than 280 residents of Verevere Village in Nakorotubu, Ra, are expected to benefit from improved disaster preparedness following the commissioning of a newly upgraded evacuation centre.

The retrofit project, valued at $50,000, was funded through the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s Evacuation Centre Programme. The upgraded facility provides a dedicated shelter for villagers during emergencies, eliminating the need to travel nearly two kilometres to Nakorotubu District School for refuge.

Speaking at the commissioning, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Mosese Bulitavu, said the project demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing community resilience and safeguarding vulnerable populations from the impacts of disasters.

The upgraded centre is expected to provide faster access to shelter and improved safety for women, children, older persons and individuals living with disabilities during severe weather events and other emergencies.

Village Headman Simione Koroicakau expressed gratitude to the Government for addressing a long-standing community need, noting that the facility will serve as a vital resource for both present and future generations.

The project represents an important step in strengthening disaster readiness in the community and ensuring residents are better equipped to respond to the increasing challenges posed by natural hazards and climate-related events.