HF radio packs delivered by WFP to Fiji

Two high-frequency (HF) radio packs have been delivered by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to the Fiji Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and National Disaster Management.

The handover forms part of WFP’s commitment to strengthening emergency communications in Fiji.

“In a disaster situation, when ‘normal’ communication systems may become unavailable, it’s vital to have alternative communication options for coordination,” said Salma Farouque, WFP Pacific emergency telecommunications coordinator.

“This handover marks another milestone in the collaboration between WFP and the Fiji National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) to revitalise their HF radio communications network.”

The HF radio backpacks are a rugged, portable, all-in-one system for long-distance communications over an independent voice network. 

“Since the establishment of its regional office in Fiji recently, the WFP has continually engaged with the NDMO to upgrade the dilapidated state of emergency communications in the ministry,” said Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Rural Maritime Development and National Disaster Management Joeli Cawaki.

“This engagement is important as communication is a vital component of emergency response operations.”

WFP upgraded 10 sites in 2016, including the NDMO headquarters. In line with its global mandate and obligations as the head of the humanitarian clusters for emergency logistics, telecommunications and food security, WFP also established a technical presence in the Pacific in late 2015 to assist regional governments with their emergency preparedness measures and to enhance their capacity to assist people in need. 

This support is coordinated through WFP’s office in Fiji. The regional program focuses on assisting five priority Pacific Island nations — Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and the Solomon Islands — as well as potential support in Northern Pacific island states.

Image credit: ©iStockphoto.com/Svengine

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