Six informal settlements across the country are set to receive upgrades as part of the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) initiative. The planned improvements will include the installation of new rock-lined drainage systems, pathways, boardwalks, and twelve wetpods in these areas.
The settlements targeted for these upgrades are Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu. Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, announced the project during its launch at Fiji National University on Wednesday.
Nalumisa outlined various components of the RISE project, including filling in waterlogged areas, installation of 74 pressure tanks across the six sites, six communal sewer tanks, and the construction of three treatment wetlands in Komave, Nauluvatu, and Vunibua. He also mentioned a demonstration site at Tamavua-i-wai featuring multiple pressure tanks and treatment wetlands.
The RISE program aims to significantly reduce contamination risks for the community by at least 80 percent through these initiatives.
Highlighting the theme of “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community health through safely managed sanitation for all,” Nalumisa emphasized the Coalition Government’s commitment, through the Ministry of Housing, to ensure that all Fijians have access to safe, affordable housing and basic services, while revitalizing informal settlements.
A funding package of $1 million has been allocated for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with an additional $1 million planned for the 2024-2025 budget. The ministry is also reviewing the 2011 National Housing Policy to address the challenges of rapid urban growth and improve land development planning.
This project is supported and implemented by Monash University, with the Ministry of Housing and NZMFAT overseeing the activities involved.
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