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 encompass new rock-lined drainage systems, footpaths, boardwalks, and twelve wetpods in the six designated areas.
The selected informal settlements for these enhancements include Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu. Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, announced the project during its launch at Fiji National University on Wednesday. He detailed that the upgrades will involve spot backfilling in waterlogged areas, installation of 74 pressure tanks across the six sites, construction of six communal sewer tanks, and the establishment of three treatment wetlands in Komave, Nauluvatu, and Vunibua. A demonstration site featuring multiple pressure tanks and treatment wetlands will also be constructed at Tamavua-i-wai.
The RISE programme aims to significantly reduce the community’s risk of contamination by at least 80 percent through these initiatives. Minister Nalumisa highlighted the theme “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community Health through safely managed sanitation for all,” stressing the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting RISE Fiji. This initiative aims to ensure that all Fijians have access to safe, affordable housing and necessary services while revitalizing informal settlements.
A funding allocation of $1 million has been approved for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with an additional $1 million earmarked in the 2024-2025 budget. The ministry is also in the process of reforming its approach through a review of the 2011 National Housing Policy, addressing challenges linked to rapid urban growth and improving land development planning.
The initiative is being supported and implemented by Monash University, with governance and oversight from both the Ministry of Housing and NZMFAT.
Leave a comment