Six informal settlements across the country are set to undergo upgrades as part of the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) initiative. The planned enhancements will feature new rock-lined drainage systems, walkways, boardwalks, and the installation of twelve wetpods in the selected settlements.
The identified settlements include Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu. Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa announced these plans during the launch of the RISE project at Fiji National University on Wednesday.
Key improvements will include spot backfilling of waterlogged areas, the installation of 74 pressure tanks at six locations, six communal sewer tanks, and the construction of three treatment wetlands in Komave, Nauluvatu, and Vunibua. A demonstration site is also set to be established at Tamavua-i-wai, showcasing multiple pressure tanks and treatment wetlands.
The RISE program’s goal is to significantly reduce the risk of contamination exposure in these communities by at least 80 percent through these efforts.
Emphasizing the theme “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community health through safely managed sanitation for all,” Minister Nalumisa highlighted the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting the RISE Fiji initiative. He reaffirmed the promise of safe, affordable housing and essential services for all citizens while revitalizing informal settlements.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, funding assistance of $1 million has been approved, with an additional $1 million allocated in the 2024-2025 budget. The ministry is also reviewing the 2011 National Housing Policy to effectively address the challenges of rapid urban growth and improve land development processes through better planning.
This project is backed by Monash University, with governance and oversight provided by the Ministry of Housing and NZMFAT.
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