Six informal settlements across the country have been selected for enhancements as part of the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) initiative. The planned improvements include the installation of new rock-lined drainage systems, footpaths, boardwalks, and twelve wetpods among the settlements.
The targeted informal settlements are Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu. Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa announced these upgrades during the RISE project launch at the Fiji National University on Wednesday.
Mr. Nalumisa detailed the upgrades, which will involve spot backfilling in waterlogged areas, the installation of 74 pressure tanks at six sites, six communal sewer tanks, and the construction of three treatment wetlands in Komave, Nauluvatu, and Vunibua. Additionally, a demonstration site will be set up at Tamavua-i-wai featuring multiple pressure tanks and treatment wetlands.
The RISE program aims to significantly reduce the community’s risk of contamination by at least 80 percent through these initiatives.
Emphasizing the theme “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community Health through safely managed sanitation for all,” Mr. Nalumisa expressed the Coalition Government’s commitment, via the Ministry of Housing, to ensure all Fijians have access to secure and affordable housing, as well as essential services and revitalization of informal settlements.
Funding of $1 million has been allocated for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with an additional $1 million included in the 2024-2025 budget. The ministry is also revising the 2011 National Housing Policy to tackle the challenges posed by rapid urban growth and improve land development planning.
This project is a collaborative effort supported by Monash University, with governance provided by both the Ministry of Housing and NZMFAT.
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