[Photo: SUPPLIED]A major step is being taken to improve how disaster warnings reach Fijians, with the Government working to establish a stronger and more coordinated national alert system. Through the National Disaster Risk Management Office, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme, Fiji is strengthening its early warning capabilities under the global Early Warnings for All initiative. Article continues after advertisementMinister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu says Fiji continues to face increasing risks from climate-related disasters, making effective early warning systems critical. He says past disasters have affected more than 1.8 million people in Fiji, causing loss of lives, livelihoods and infrastructure. UNDP Pacific Office Deputy Resident Representative Abduvakkos Abdurahmanov says an early warning system is only effective if it reaches the last person, especially those in vulnerable communities.