Yalobi Village, Yasawa Opens Evacuation Centre

In a significant improvement for the Yasawa community, the opening of a new evacuation centre in Yalobi Village on Wednesday marked a dramatic shift from past experiences.

During Hurricane Bebe in 1972, villagers endured the terrifying or-deal of transporting their elderly, women, and children to a cave for safety. The newly-opened centre, which replaces the need for such perilous journeys, represents a major advancement in disaster pre-paredness for the region.

The opening of the new facility was commissioned by the Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Jovesa Vocea.

The facility received a total investment of $62,139, including a $29,433 government contribution, to retro-fit the existing structure.

Mr Vocea acknowledged the United Nations Development Programme Governance for Resilience Project (UNDP Gov4Res) for their generous funding of $32,706 under the Risk-Informed Development initiative.

“This project is a testament to the ongoing partnership between the UNDP Gov4Res Project and our government, specifically the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management,” he said.

The newly-improved and upgraded evacuation centre. Yalobi Village in Waya, Yasawa on August 28, 2024. Photo: DEPTFO News

He also acknowledged the villagers for their contribution.

“Your commitment to build this original facility with a $47,000 full community contribution is com-mendable. Your hands have built a place of refuge and safety, where your families, friends, and neigh- bours can find shelter and protection in times of need.

“This centre is a lifeline for about 200 people living in this village, and those coming after them. It is a place of hope, safety, and security.”

The village headman, Nacanieli Vakalagilagi said the facility would protect their people for any effects of disasters in the village.

He said the geographical location of Yalobi Village made it particularly susceptible to natural disasters.

“Whether it be cyclones, flooding, or other severe weather events, we are at risk. The facility includes a refuge for the elderly, the disabled and the villagers. We have a long history of seeking refuge at the cave at the height of Hurricane in 1972 which is about two kilometres from here. “Those painful memories will be a story of the past as we celebrate this milestone achievement.”

The evacuation centre includes its two-side porch, the new kitchen, separate toilet and bathroom facilities, rams for disability access, two 10,000 litre rainwater storage tanks, kitchen utensils, tables and chairs and the new solar electrification system.

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