The Coalition Government is set to enhance international initiatives aimed at improving water services across Fiji, in light of the resource constraints faced by the nation.
Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau highlighted that energy is essential for water delivery, making the water-energy relationship a critical topic in discussions about climate financing. He underscored the need to effectively leverage available opportunities.
Tuisawau pointed out that for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Fiji, access to basic utilities such as water and energy is vital for the daily livelihoods of local communities, emphasizing the importance of roads alongside these utilities.
He called for the promotion of water-energy initiatives at the grassroots level to help combat poverty and create significant improvements in people’s daily lives.
“Targeting this nexus is essential when we explore climate financing, particularly through assessing natural spring or groundwater resources by utilizing advanced solar technology, including solar-powered borehole pumps and desalination plants,” he stated.
Tuisawau mentioned that innovative programs should be implemented using smart national frameworks to act as transformative catalysts, especially for coastal communities.
The Coalition Government has made notable progress in its engagement with catchment landowners, having received Cabinet approval for a framework and policy to compensate for standing trees in these areas.
He assured that the Government will remain attentive to all stakeholders, focusing particularly on landowners and addressing their concerns within the existing legal frameworks.