The Coalition Government is set to enhance international initiatives aimed at improving water services in Fiji, considering the constraints of the nation’s budget. Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau highlighted the critical connection between water and energy, underlining the importance of addressing this relationship when discussing climate financing.
Tuisawau pointed out that for Small Island Developing States like Fiji, access to vital utilities such as water and energy is essential for the daily survival of grassroots communities. He stressed that this necessity extends beyond just water and energy, also encompassing infrastructure like roads.
The minister advocated for promoting the water-energy nexus at the grassroots level, viewing it as a pathway to reduce poverty and significantly impact everyday lives. He emphasized the need to focus on this connection in climate financing efforts, particularly when evaluating natural water sources and leveraging advanced solar technology, such as solar-powered borehole pumps and desalination plants.
To tackle these challenges, Tuisawau proposed innovative programs built on smart national frameworks, which could act as a transformative driver, particularly benefiting maritime communities. He also announced the government’s commitment to building a stronger relationship with landowners of catchment areas, following Cabinet approval for a framework and policy aimed at compensating landowners for standing trees in these areas. The government intends to continue engaging with all stakeholders, especially landowners, to address their concerns within existing legal frameworks.