Six informal settlements across the country are set to receive upgrades under the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) initiative. The planned improvements will include the construction of rock-lined drainage systems, footpaths, boardwalks, and twelve wetpods in the selected areas.
The settlements identified for this project are Komave, Nauluvatu, Matata, Vunibua, Wailea, and Muanivatu. Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, announced the initiative during its launch at Fiji National University on Wednesday.
Mr. Nalumisa detailed the features of the upgrade, which will consist of spot backfilling to address waterlogged spots, the installation of 74 pressure tanks across the six sites, six communal sewer tanks, and the construction of three treatment wetlands in Komave, Nauluvatu, and Vunibua. A demonstration site at Tamavua-i-wai will also showcase multiple pressure tanks and treatment wetlands.
Through these improvements, the RISE program aims to significantly reduce community exposure to contamination risks by at least 80 percent.
Emphasizing the theme “Leaving no one behind: Partnership for improving community health through safely managed sanitation for all,” Mr. Nalumisa reiterated the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting RISE Fiji to ensure all Fijians have access to safe and affordable housing and basic services, while revitalizing informal settlements.
He announced that funding assistance of $1 million has been allocated for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with an additional $1 million budgeted for 2024-2025. The ministry is also reviewing the 2011 National Housing Policy to address rapid urban growth issues and improve land development planning.
This project is being supported and implemented in collaboration with Monash University, while governance and oversight are provided by the Ministry of Housing and NZMFAT.
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