FemLINK: Women’s presence in disaster risk management essential
emLINK Pacific executive producer and director Sharon Bhagwan-Rolls says having women in disaster management planning is essential because they were aware of the concerns in the community.
Ms Bhagwan-Rolls was presenting during a Disaster Risk Management co-ordination workshop organised by the Australian High Commission at the Salvation Army in Labasa, yesterday. “30 per cent of women leaders are needed for the sectoral hub division and district level as they are more aware of the problems within the community,” said.
“Such recommendations include the need to support the communities, including rural women leaders through the provision of clear, accessible and relevant information at all times as well as the need to include women in decision making spaces at all levels and all times. “Commitments have already been made under the Women’s plan of Action and the National Gender policy.
“All broadcasters, including community radio have a vital role to communicate weather information, not just bulletins and updates, during the cyclone season to support disaster preparedness.”
Meanwhile, the Fiji Disabled People’s Federation vice-president Lanieta Tuimabu called on the Government to provide disabilityfriendly facilities in evacuation centres.