Six informal settlements across the country have been selected for upgrades as part of the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) initiative. The improvements will include the construction of new rock-lined drainage systems, footpaths and boardwalks, and twelve wetpods spread across the six sites.
The settlements identified for these enhancements are Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu. This information was shared by Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, during the launch of the RISE project at Fiji National University on Wednesday.
Among the planned upgrades are spot backfilling for 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. There will also be a demonstration site at Tamavua-i-wai featuring multiple pressure tanks and treatment wetlands. The RISE programme aims to reduce community exposure to contamination by at least 80 percent through these initiatives.
Minister Nalumisa emphasized the importance of the theme “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community health through safely managed sanitation for all,” highlighting the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting RISE Fiji. This initiative is designed to ensure that all Fijians have access to safe, affordable housing and basic services, as well as the revitalization of informal settlements.
The project has received funding approval of $1 million for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with an additional $1 million allocated in the 2024-2025 budget. The Ministry is also conducting an institutional reform by reviewing the 2011 National Housing Policy to address the challenges of rapid urban growth and improve the planning of land development.
The project is being supported and implemented by Monash University, while governance and oversight will be provided by both the Ministry of Housing and NZMFAT.
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