The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Steering Committee held a crucial three-day meeting at Pearl Resort from May 22-24, 2024, focusing on the nation’s strategies to combat the escalating impacts of climate change. The event was officially opened by Dr. Sivendra Michael, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, who emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges through comprehensive planning and collaborative efforts.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Michael highlighted the urgency of integrating the NAP process into all ministries’ operations, budget, and investments. He stressed the need to develop significant climate finance proposals, programs, and projects, underscoring the government’s dedication to embedding climate resilience into national development plans. This approach aims to ensure that communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems can withstand and recover from adverse climatic conditions.

The workshop, organized with technical support from the NAP Global Network, aimed to advance Fiji’s climate adaptation strategies by bringing together senior government representatives, including members of the NAP Steering Committee. The primary goals were to build a common understanding of the NAP process, strategize its integration into sectoral planning, and formulate Fiji’s Second 5-year National Adaptation Plan. This involved reaching consensus on key recommendations, consultation methods, and priorities for the new plan.

Participants engaged in discussions to align the NAP process with other national planning initiatives, such as the National Development Plan and the Climate Change Act 2021. They reviewed and approved the proposed approach for updating the NAP document and the revised terms of reference for the NAP Steering Committee. These efforts aim to strengthen Fiji’s climate resilience by ensuring that adaptation strategies are effectively coordinated and implemented across various sectors.