Fiji’s Minister for Infrastructure, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has raised concerns regarding a significant disparity in the accounting methods at the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF). Despite a substantial government investment of $160 million, WAF has only been able to generate $40 million in revenue.
During a workshop on the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan, Tuisawau emphasized the need for reform, stating that the current accounting processes cannot persist if WAF is to be effectively corporatized. One of his proposed solutions involves separating operating and non-operating revenue, which would provide a clearer picture of revenue generation for the government as it considers corporatizing WAF.
The Minister noted that while previous efforts to corporatize WAF were initiated by the former FijiFirst Government, many of those plans were not completed. Tuisawau expressed hope that the Coalition Government will lay a solid framework to ensure the aspirations for WAF’s efficiency are met, highlighting ongoing discussions regarding the future of the agency.
He reaffirmed that the government’s aim to corporatize WAF is not merely for the sake of change but to streamline operations and ensure efficiency. This includes creating the right environmental, legislative, and regulatory frameworks. Tuisawau also indicated that the corporatization process will be conducted in phases to avoid disruption and chaos.
Plans are reportedly in place to implement these changes, signaling a forward-looking approach aimed at enhancing WAF’s financial discipline, skills, and technological integration. Overall, the initiative aims to improve water resource management in Fiji, which is a crucial aspect for sustainable development and public welfare.
In summary, Minister Tuisawau’s remarks reflect a commitment to reforming WAF’s operations to increase efficiency and transparency, thereby improving water supply and sanitation services in Fiji.
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