Access to clean drinking water remains a major challenge for Fiji’s remote government stations in the North, where residents often rely on rainwater or a small number of boreholes. The government is signaling a renewed push to fix this, with emphasis on frontline officers and rural communities, and Kubulau in Bua identified as a key focus area.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Sakiasi Ditoka says addressing water access has been an overdue priority and that solid village development plans are essential to fast-track government support to those most in need. “This is one of the focus areas we are prioritizing for our frontline officers and government ministries serving rural and remote communities, something that has been overlooked. Kubulau is one of those places, and we need to have a standard to serve the people better,” he said.
Residents on Navatu Island also confirm the daily struggle for clean water, noting that boreholes and rainwater are the main sources. Camari Dilului emphasized that government projects are already helping to improve access and reliability for his community.
To bolster water security, the Ministry has opened a $24,000 solar-powered borehole at Kubulau Government Station. The new facility will serve all government officers in the area and nearby communities, including Navasua, providing a more reliable and sustainable supply.
Ditoka underscored that improving water access is integral to public service delivery and broader community development, ensuring rural areas receive essential support efficiently and consistently.
Context and broader momentum
This initiative sits within a wider national push to expand reliable water access across Fiji. Other recent efforts have included:
– Plans and progress on borehole projects across various regions, with thousands of households already benefiting from groundwater programs.
– Earlier deployments of water tanks, such as 11 tanks provided to Kumi in Tailevu to secure water during dry spells.
– Ongoing groundwater projects in Nayau, with new boreholes and systems aimed at reducing waterborne health risks.
– Government targets to identify and develop additional borehole sites as part of a larger strategy to expand safe drinking water nationwide.
The overarching message from officials is that reliable water access strengthens public health, supports housing and economic activity, and builds resilience in rural and maritime communities. Renewable-energy solutions, like solar-powered boreholes, are also highlighted as a smart way to ensure long-term, maintenance-friendly supply.
Commentary and value-added notes
– The solar-powered borehole approach reduces ongoing energy costs and increases reliability, especially in remote areas where grid access is limited.
– Success will depend on robust village-level water committees and maintenance plans to keep sources clean and functional, aligning with the call for stronger village development planning.
– The current push reflects a holistic view: water, health, housing, and disaster resilience are interconnected in building stronger rural communities.
Positive outlook
These measures, by expanding access to clean water and tying infrastructure to community development, suggest a hopeful path toward healthier, more self-reliant rural areas. As ongoing projects mature, reliable water supply can unlock better health outcomes, improved school and work attendance, and more stable living conditions for families across Fiji’s remote communities.
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