The Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, emphasized the importance of utilizing new municipal assets effectively during the recent handover of six brand-new nine-tonne garbage compactor trucks. Speaking on Friday, he highlighted that the vehicles must serve the community consistently, addressing the public’s expectation for improved sanitation and service delivery.
“This is more than just handing over vehicles; it represents an investment in cleaner towns, stronger service delivery, and a safer environment for our citizens,” Mr. Nalumisa stated. He acknowledged the supportive role of communities in maintaining cleanliness alongside government efforts.
The government has allocated over $1.5 million for these new trucks, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing municipal operations and improving the quality of life for all residents. The Ba Town Council received one truck, while the Nasinu Town Council received two, and Sigatoka, Nadi, and Rakiraki town councils were each given one.
During the event, Mr. Nalumisa remarked on the significant impact of timely waste collection on households, businesses, tourism, and public health. “An investment of over $1.5 million is a strategic move to enabling councils to deliver reliable, efficient, and high-quality services,” he asserted. He noted the challenges councils face with aging fleets and the subsequent high maintenance costs that adversely affect waste collection schedules.
These new compactor trucks are expected to enhance waste collection efficiency, provide better coverage to underserved areas, and lower long-term maintenance costs. As Mr. Nalumisa pointed out, cleaner commercial zones benefit businesses, while reliable pick-up services support households.
He further connected this initiative to the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability, public health protection, and climate resilience. Poor waste management leads to pollution and ecosystem degradation, which is particularly concerning for a climate-vulnerable country like Fiji.
These efforts are a step towards building a resilient future by reducing pollution and fostering a cleaner environment for generations to come. The introduction of these trucks aligns with a broader national strategy to enhance waste management, crucial for adapting to climate change challenges.
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