Six informal settlements across the country have been selected for upgrades as part of the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) initiative. The enhancements will feature new rock-lined drainage systems, footpaths, boardwalks, and a total of twelve wetpods within the six settlements.
The settlements targeted for improvement are Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu. Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, announced these plans during the RISE project launch at Fiji National University on Wednesday.
Nalumisa detailed the projects, which include backfilling of waterlogged areas, installation of 74 pressure tanks across the six sites, six communal sewer tanks, and the construction of three treatment wetlands located in Komave, Nauluvatu, and Vunibua. A demonstration site at Tamavua-i-wai will showcase various pressure tanks and treatment wetlands.
The RISE program aims to significantly reduce community exposure to contamination risks by at least 80 percent through these efforts.
During the launch, Nalumisa also highlighted the initiative’s theme, “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community health through safely managed sanitation for all.” He reaffirmed the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting RISE Fiji, ensuring that all citizens have access to safe, affordable housing and essential services while revitalizing informal settlements.
A funding allocation of $1 million has been approved for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with an additional $1 million earmarked for the 2024-2025 budget. The ministry is also proposing revisions to the 2011 National Housing Policy to better address the challenges posed by rapid urban growth and improve land development planning.
Support for the project comes from Monash University, while the Ministry of Housing and New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (NZMFAT) will oversee governance and implementation of these initiatives.
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