The Coalition Government is set to enhance international initiatives aimed at improving water services across Fiji, in light of the constraints facing the country’s budget.
Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau pointed out that the delivery of water is dependent on energy, making the water-energy relationship vital in discussions about climate financing. He stressed the importance of efficiently leveraging available opportunities.
“For Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Fiji, having reliable access to basic utilities such as energy and water is critical for daily survival, especially for our grassroots communities. This also extends to infrastructure such as roads,” Tuisawau remarked.
He highlighted the necessity of promoting water-energy connections at the grassroots level to help combat poverty and bring about significant improvements in daily living conditions.
Tuisawau emphasized the need to focus on this relationship while considering climate funding, particularly in evaluating natural spring and groundwater resources through advanced solar technologies, including solar-powered borehole pumps and desalination plants.
He mentioned that innovative programs utilizing smart national frameworks could serve as transformative catalysts, particularly for coastal communities.
Additionally, the government has established a pivotal relationship with landowners in catchment areas, having received Cabinet approval to create a framework and policy to compensate for standing trees in these regions.
“We will maintain open communication with all stakeholders, particularly landowners, to address their concerns within our existing legal structures,” he added.