8 July, 2024

Apisalome, the vice president of Tavua Vatukoula Disabled Association, expressed his gratitude for the new ramp and disability access implemented at their evacuation centre.

Throughout the construction process, Apisalome diligently monitored the site, recognising the significance of the project for the community.

Apisalome is the vice president of the Tavua Vatukoula Disasbled Association

With a considerable number of individuals with disabilities residing in Tavua, including approximately 10 wheelchair users and many others reliant on crutches, the enhanced accessibility features are poised to greatly benefit the community.

Apisalome highlighted that evacuating to the evacuation centre during any disaster will no longer pose a challenge for individuals with disabilities, now that it is equipped with accessibility features.

The evacuation centre has been retrofitted with a ramp, making the building accessible

Given Tavua’s susceptibility to flooding and cyclones, he said the enhanced accessibility of the centre ensures that all community members, including those with disabilities, can seek refuge safely and efficiently during times of crisis.

The retrofitting efforts at the evacuation centre were carried out as part of the Safe n Redi project by the Church Agencies Network Disaster Operations (CAN DO) under the Australian Humanitarian Partnership’s Disaster READY program.

The improved infrastructure not only ensures inclusivity and safety for individuals with disabilities but also underscores the commitment to fostering a more resilient and supportive community in Tavua by CAN DO Fiji.

Tags:  Disaster, Fiji, Inclusion, Pacific, South Pacific, disability inclusion, disaster preparedness, Disaster Ready,