Only 17 percent of urban residential customers connected to the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) have access to proper sewered sanitation systems. This statistic was highlighted by Isoa Vakarewa, the country manager for Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE), during the commissioning of a sanitation facility in Lovoni Settlement, Namadi, Suva last week.
To address this pressing issue, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, in collaboration with the WAF and RISE, is dedicated to enhancing water and sanitation facilities in informal settlements across the Central Division. WASH coordinator Toga Vosataki pointed out that inadequate sanitation can lead to numerous neglected tropical diseases and broader public health concerns, including malnutrition.
Mr. Vosataki emphasized that insufficient access to proper sanitation facilities poses significant risks, particularly for women, girls, and individuals with disabilities. He noted that inadequate sanitation is a leading cause of diseases like diarrhea, which impacts the health and lives of children under five years old in low- and middle-income countries.
He further explained that a proper sanitation system should effectively separate human waste from contact throughout its entire service chain, from collection to disposal. The Ministry is striving to ensure the provision of safe sanitation, working collaboratively with various stakeholders to develop effective sanitation programs and investment strategies. Safe sanitation is vital for maintaining public health, as it helps prevent infections and supports mental and social well-being.
This initiative reflects a positive movement toward improving health and living conditions for those in informal settlements, showcasing a community-focused approach to tackling critical sanitation issues.
In summary, the collective efforts by government and community organizations aim to expand access to safe sanitation, ultimately improving public health and quality of life for vulnerable populations. With ongoing collaboration and commitment, there is hope for significant improvements in sanitation infrastructure in Fiji.
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