PCRIC and ADB Explore Collaboration on Disaster Risk Financing to Advance Regional Resilience
18 February 2025
CDRF 2025: Strengthening Technical Capacity in Disaster Risk Finance
24 February 2025
Strengthening Disaster Resilience: The Need for Action
The 2025 Climate and Disaster Risk Finance Workshop opened with a strong call to action from PCRIC Director Siosiua Utoikamanu, who reinforced the critical need for proactive disaster preparedness in the Pacific. He highlighted the Vanuatu earthquake response as a powerful example of how pre-arranged disaster financing can deliver swift and essential relief.
“In times of crisis, swift action can make a significant difference. We must continue to invest in our resilience.”
Reflecting on the Fijian government’s insurance policy purchase covering cyclones and excess rainfall, Utoikamanu noted that preparation today determines recovery tomorrow. He also acknowledged the essential role of the World Bank in supporting technical innovation in disaster risk financing and emphasised the need to equip member nations with the knowledge and tools to protect communities and livelihoods.
As the workshop unfolded, the focus remained clear: commitment, action, and collaboration are key to building a more resilient Pacific.
