Fiji is currently experiencing the worst flooding ever in its history and current estimated damage stands at $20 million and is to exceed should the appalling conditions prevail. The worst affected areas are the Western, Central and Northern Divisions with homes, businesses, livestock and farms being under water of up to 16 feet.

The recent flooding has seen a total of 10,000 people taking shelter at various Evacuation Centers set up in the Western, Eastern and Northern Divisions. At present 114 evacuation centers have been activated sheltering the 10,000 people. The number of evacuees and evacuation centers are expected to increase as more bad weather is forecasted throughout Fiji with more rain and floods expected in the next few days.

The Fiji Government has declared a state of emergency for the Western Division for next 30 days with immediate effect. Homes have been lost and twelve people have already lost their lives in tragic circumstances trying to escape rising flood waters and through landslides.

The most recent Education survey for the Western Division states that at least 3000 students have been directly affected by the torrential flooding. These numbers exclude schools with no road accessibility due to the extensive damage caused by the flooding and the Central and Northern Division.

As a result of the adverse effects of the flooding several corporate bodies have joined forces to raise public funds to be donated to the victims including Vodafone, FBCL, Westpac, ANZ & Fiji Times, Mai TV. Prime Ministers Account etc are a few to name.

We need the support of good Samaritans around the world in Fiji’s hour of need to assist the thousands who have been caught in one of the worst disasters to hit Fiji. A special appeal is being made to former Fiji residents now living abroad to give generously to your former countrymen and women who desperately seek assistance to rebuild their lives.

Vodafone Fiji in partnership with Westpac Banking Corporation and with the support of Oceanic Communications took this quick initiative to mobilize this site to enable you to give generously.

All monies collected will used to provide emergency care packs for the displaced, as they make their way back to their homes. All activities will be updated on this site for complete transparency of your donation.

Vodafone Fiji wishes to acknowledge the following people for their generosity towards the Vodafone Online Flood Relief Campaign.

We would also like to thank those who have chosen not to have their names published.

We thank you all for contributing; this campaign will close at midnight on Saturday 31st January, 2009.