Four landfill sites located in Lautoka, Ba, Rakiraki, and Sigatoka are set to undergo major rehabilitation as part of a project aimed at enhancing waste management solutions. The initiative will be launched in the four primary urban centers of the Western Division following the signing of a Transaction Advisory Services Agreement between the Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
During the signing ceremony, Seema Sharma, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, emphasized the importance of establishing new sanitary landfills and rehabilitating existing dumpsites in these towns. She noted that these developments are crucial from both a township and urban development standpoint, aligning with the ministry’s efforts to create a comprehensive National Masterplan for urban centers.
This project also enjoys support from the Investing in Coral Reefs and the Blue Economy initiative, which is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), backed by funding from the UN Joint SDG Fund and the Global Fund for Coral Reefs. This collaboration is anticipated to bolster the environmental and social impacts of the initiative.
Dr. Sivendra Michael, the permanent secretary of the Environment Ministry, highlighted the significance of investing in waste management infrastructure as a critical step toward protecting Fiji’s biodiversity. He stated that this project represents a major advancement in addressing the environmental degradation linked to inadequate waste management practices.
Aaron Batten, the ADB Pacific country director, acknowledged the importance of this project for sustainable waste management in Fiji. He mentioned that through public-private partnerships, innovative solutions can be introduced to enhance infrastructure, safeguard the environment, and promote healthier communities.
In conclusion, this transformative initiative represents a vital effort to improve waste management and environmental conservation in Fiji. The collaboration between various governmental and international organizations signals a strong commitment to sustainable development and the protection of natural resources, offering hope for a cleaner and healthier future for the communities involved.
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