The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $125 million concessional loan and a $10 million grant aimed at bolstering Fiji’s water security and improving ocean health. The funding will support the Healthy Oceans and Water Security Improvement Project, which is set to undertake extensive upgrades to the Kinoya wastewater treatment plant in Suva. This project aims to establish a more resilient water supply system and reduce water losses while creating a regional training center for Pacific water and wastewater operators.
Aaron Batten, Regional Director of ADB’s Pacific Subregional Office, emphasized that the upgrades to the Kinoya wastewater treatment plant will significantly enhance ocean health and improve water quality in Laucala Bay. The project plans to double the treatment plant’s capacity and implement advanced technologies to reduce energy consumption and minimize maintenance costs. As a result, pollution discharged into Laucala Bay is expected to decrease, supporting the recovery of affected marine ecosystems.
In addition to environmental benefits, the project addresses critical issues in Fiji’s aging pipe distribution network by promoting innovative performance-based contracts to reduce water losses. Currently, a significant portion of water losses is attributed to physical leaks. This not only raises operational costs but also affects the reliability of water supply in certain areas. The initiative is expected to save 10.5 million cubic meters of water annually, along with reducing carbon emissions by approximately 1,417 metric tons per year.
To further support water management skills in the region, the project will fund the establishment of a regional training hub in Lautoka, offering accredited training for water utility operators. This initiative is supported by the ADB’s Asian Development Fund thematic window for regional cooperation and integration, promoting skill development and new career pathways for Fijian and Pacific Islanders.
This development is a continuation of Fiji’s ongoing efforts to address infrastructural challenges, as highlighted in previous initiatives such as the government’s investment of $284 million for the 2025-2026 budget to address water infrastructure needs. These combined efforts underline a significant commitment to sustainable growth and public health, with a hopeful outlook for the future resilience of Fiji’s environmental and water resources. This project exemplifies a proactive approach to combating climate change impacts, ensuring that marine ecosystems, such as mangrove forests and coral reefs, remain resilient despite increasing pollution and climate-related threats.
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