Semi Radradra & Think Pacific Partner to Support Cyclone Relief Efforts

Cyclone Yasa

On December 11th 2020, Cyclone Yasa devastated parts of Fiji, particularly in the northern areas. With a category 5 rating, Yasa was the strongest storm since Cyclone Winston hit Fiji in 2016, reaching wind speeds of 260km/h. Devastatingly, four people sadly lost their lives whilst thousands were left homeless and without food, water or shelter.

Semi Radradra, the Flying Fijians rugby captain, took it upon himself to raise much needed funds to support the rebuild – totalling more than $17,000 FJD (£6,000 GBP). Despite now living halfway around the world, the man from Somosomo village, Taveuni Island, said that ‘it’s an honour to donate the money raised to Think Pacific. I have seen their work and trust they will be able to put this money towards a good cause. I hope this money will support Fiji’s wider redevelopment plans, and we will continue to support our nation in any way we can. Even though we may live overseas, Fiji is always in our minds and hearts.’

Semi’s Contribution

Known among the top rugby players in the world, Think Pacific are humbled that Semi has been able to provide this support to the various organisations and to help Fiji’s ongoing relief efforts. A huge ‘vinaka vakalevu’ (thank you very much) goes to all of those that donated to Semi’s campaign, without whose generosity such support would not be possible.

Together with Think Pacific, this money will be used by the Fiji National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) and the Fiji Red Cross, who will receive $7,290 FJD and $10,000 FJD respectively.

Through our partnership with the NDMO and our dialogue with SAO Aid & Humanitarian Coordination team, the specific areas of their relief and recovery work highlighted for our funding assistance are to provide shelter, agriculture support and healthcare resources and facilities.

The Fiji Red Cross is currently beginning their recovery phase, and are planning the logistics to enable them to procure and move things to Vanua Levu and begin recovery, once the Covid restrictions are eased. Mrs Rokotunidau added that ‘It is through the private funders like Mr Radradra that is allowing Fiji Red Cross to provide safe drinking water to school children in the areas noted and also food provision for a whole village that was completely under water during the TC Ana. The private donations allow us to address needs of people when we are visiting communities and doing assessments, and in all our programs we also target people with disability, the elderly, single mothers, children and those with chronic health conditions’.

To continue to support the work of Think Pacific, please donate here. Vinaka vakalevu.’