The business sector’s ability to continue operations is so critical for Fiji’s economy and the well being of its people.

These were the words of the outgoing United States Ambassador to Fiji,  Judith Cefkin during the launch of disaster training programme yesterday at the Employers Hub in Suva.

The training is part of the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Ready project, which is strengthening the environmental and disaster resilience of Pacific Island countries.

This in partnership with Fiji Business Disaster Resilience Council and the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation

Ms Cefkin said with the critical role that business plays here in Fiji  as drivers of the economy and of prosperity, it was in their interest to share some tools that would really help build that resilience.

“At the regional, national and local levels we have identified clear priorities to strengthen resilience in your communities and so we are here today to demonstrate that support for these priorities,” she said.

“Resilient development requires participation of everyone across all sectors of economy.

“We really know that we need to work together to adapt existing infrastructure and social systems to ensure that we are really ready to manage the challenges ahead particularly in terms of natural disasters risk.”

“There is evidence worldwide suggests that having such a business continuity plans means that businesses are more likely to be able to adapt to survive and even to thrive when disaster strikes.”

Fiji Business Disaster Resilience Council vice-chair Leonard Chan said the training was a priority because a large number of Small and medium-sized enterprises in Fiji have not undertaken any formal disaster resilience or business continuity plan (BCP) despite the demonstrated balance costs.

“ So in one of our surveys, we’ve noticed that 75 per cent of businesses will not actually have a BCP plan and one out of four businesses do not re-open after disaster strikes,” he said.

“It is also achievable in the short term with minimal outputs for significant outcomes. Supply chain management is a high priority issue for businesses in Fiji during disaster recovery period and is something that BCP can help us.

There were about 35 participants that attended the training. It ends today.

Feedback:  selita.bolanavanua@fijisun.com.fj