Only 17% of urban residential customers connected to the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) water supply currently have access to proper sewered sanitation systems. This concerning statistic was highlighted by Isoa Vakarewa, the Country Manager of Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE), during the inauguration of a new sanitation facility at Lovoni Settlement in Namadi, Suva last week.
In response to this issue, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, in partnership with WAF and RISE, is committed to enhancing water and sanitation facilities in informal settlements across the Central Division. Toga Vosataki, the WASH coordinator for the Ministry of Health, underscored that inadequate sanitation is a contributing factor to numerous neglected tropical diseases and can lead to broader health complications such as undernutrition.
Mr. Vosataki emphasized that the absence of proper sanitation facilities poses significant risks, especially to women, girls, and individuals with disabilities. He noted that substandard sanitation exacerbates the spread of diseases like diarrheal infections, which are particularly perilous for children under the age of five in low- and middle-income countries.
To combat these challenges, Vosataki explained that a safe sanitation system is crucial for separating human waste from human contact throughout the entire sanitation service chain, from capture and containment to treatment and final disposal. The Ministry aims to ensure the delivery of safe sanitation to safeguard public health by working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to develop effective sanitation programs and investments.
This initiative highlights a promising effort to enhance public health and well-being in the community. By addressing the sanitation crisis in informal settlements, these organizations are paving the way for improved health outcomes, greater dignity, and enhanced quality of life for vulnerable populations.
In summary, the collaboration between the Ministry of Health, WAF, and RISE represents an essential step toward improving sanitation access in Fiji, which is crucial for preventing disease and promoting the overall health of communities.
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