ADRA Fiji’s Gender Inclusion Efforts in DRR Recognized at Inaugural Sautu Women in DRR and Climate Resilience Awards
ADRA Fiji’s commitment to advancing gender inclusion in disaster risk reduction (DRR) was recognized at the inaugural Sautu Women in DRR and Climate Resilience Awards, where the organization received the prestigious award for “Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) that Promote Gender Inclusion Initiatives.” The event, held on August 20th at Tanoa Plaza in Suva, marked a significant moment in the national celebration of World Humanitarian Day 2024.
This recognition highlights ADRA Fiji’s outstanding work through the Women Influence and Informal Local Resilience Action Project (WIILRAP Fiji), which empowers women to take leadership roles in building resilience to disasters and climate change in their communities.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Sakiasi R Ditoka, praised the contributions of humanitarian workers, particularly women, stating:
“As we commemorate World Humanitarian Day, the Government of Fiji reiterates its commitment to advancing inclusivity and ensuring the lives of our humanitarian workers are protected. There is no better way to honor the strength and dedication of women leaders than by recognizing their invaluable contributions during this humanitarian week. Your work is nothing short of extraordinary, and we are deeply grateful.”
The Sautu Women in DRR and Climate Resilience Awards, a collaborative effort between the Fiji NDMO, Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), and UN Women Pacific through the Australian-funded Women Resilience to Disasters (WRD) Programme, is an initiative aimed at celebrating the exceptional resilience and leadership of women and organizations in DRR and climate resilience spaces.
Four categories were awarded during the ceremony, including:
- National Women Leader in DRR – Ms. Salote Biukoto
- Community Women Leader in DRR – Ms. Lavenia Naivalu
- CSOs that promote gender inclusion initiatives – ADRA Fiji
- Government agencies that promote gender inclusion initiatives – Fiji Police Force
ADRA Fiji Communications Coordinator, Losalini Bolatagici, accepted the award on behalf of ADRA Fiji’s management, acknowledging the importance of this recognition in driving ADRA’s ongoing mission to serve vulnerable communities with compassion, justice, and love.
“We are incredibly proud to receive this award, which reaffirms our commitment to empowering women and promoting gender inclusivity in disaster resilience. This honor is not just for ADRA, but for the communities and women leaders we work with, who inspire us every day through their courage and strength,” said Bolatagici.
ADRA Fiji extends its gratitude to the Fiji NDMO, FCOSS, and UN Women Pacific for this esteemed recognition. This award strengthens our resolve to continue making a positive impact in the communities we serve.
