The Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) initiative has identified six informal settlements across the country for upgrades. These include Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu.
Improvements will feature new rock-lined drainage systems, footpaths and boardwalks, and the installation of twelve wetpods. Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa announced these developments during the RISE project launch at Fiji National University on Wednesday.
The upgrades will also include the backfilling of waterlogged areas, installation of 74 pressure tanks at six locations, six communal sewer tanks, and the construction of three treatment wetlands in Komave, Nauluvatu, and Vunibua. Additionally, a demonstration site at Tamavua-i-wai will showcase multiple pressure tanks and treatment wetlands. The RISE program aims to significantly reduce contamination risks for the community by at least 80 percent.
Minister Nalumisa highlighted the theme, “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community health through safely managed sanitation for all,” reaffirming the Coalition Government’s commitment to RISE Fiji. The goal is to ensure that all Fijians have access to safe and affordable housing and essential services, thereby revitalizing informal settlements.
Funding of $1 million has been approved for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with an additional $1 million allocated in the 2024-2025 budget. The Ministry is also reviewing the 2011 National Housing Policy as part of an institutional reform aimed at addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and improving land development planning. Monash University supports and implements the project, with governance and oversight provided by the Ministry of Housing and NZMFAT.
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