Vio Island, Fiji: The community of Vio Island has celebrated the commissioning of its new risk-informed evacuation centre and the start of works to upgrade its solar mini-grid system, twin initiatives that strengthen disaster preparedness and expand access to clean energy.  

Delivered by the Fiji Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management and the Department of Energy, the integrated initiative represents a milestone achievement in Fiji’s commitment to building resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart communities.  These initiatives, supported by the UNDP Gov4Res and the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund projects showcase how inclusive, people-centred development can deliver tangible, sustainable outcomes for vulnerable communities.  

FREF will benefit over 6,500 Fijians and see more than 2,920 metric tonnes of CO₂ emissions reduced. It integrates smart meters, mobile payments, digital connectivity, and clean water solutions to enable productive energy use and inclusive development.

The newly commissioned evacuation centre, powered by renewable energy, enhances disaster readiness and safety for the people of Vio. Simultaneously, the forthcoming solar mini-grid upgrade will expand access to clean, affordable electricity, enabling economic empowerment, educational opportunities, and improved livelihoods, especially for women and youth.  

Speaking on behalf of the Government of Fiji Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka stated:

“This project symbolises what we can achieve through strong partnerships - a key emphasis of our National Development Plan. The NDP recognises that development challenges are interconnected, and therefore, our solutions must also be integrated and multi-sectoral. Fiji must reimagine how we plan and deliver rural development, we must challenge existing structures and develop new dynamic approaches that address community needs- a challenge the Fiji Government are taking on”