The residents of Nakini Village, situated in the province of Naitasiri, are expressing profound gratitude for the Government's timely intervention after the commissioning of their water project today.
The village was chosen as the pilot site for a water project that incorporates a solar-powered water pump and an Ecological Purification System (EPS), which will furnish the villagers with a reliable source of potable water.
The initiative aims to tackle water source challenges and introduce solar pump technology to improve water accessibility and reduce environmental impact.
The project comes with a significant government investment of $171,000.00 with the main focus on enhancing the availability of clean water in remote communities while harnessing renewable energy solutions.
"This approach is crucial to improving water accessibility, particularly in areas where communities either lack access to water or face issues with outdated infrastructure, such as aging dams and reliance on gravity-based systems," said the Minister.
“Over the coming months, the Water Authority will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the pilot project here in Nakini and, if proven successful, the government intends to replicate this solar-powered water extraction system across Fiji to significantly improve water access for all citizens,” emphasized Hon Tuisawau
The system currently in place combines water extraction through solar-powered pumps, water purification processes, and finally, the distribution of clean water to the taps in the community. This integrated approach is seen as a promising model for tackling water challenges in remote areas.
In addition to the pilot project, the government is also working with the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) to explore climate financing opportunities for solar-powered water solutions in similar remote communities.
Many communities, like the one under consideration, require the use of power to extract groundwater when the water source is at a lower level
During his speech, Minister Tuisawau also addressed concerns raised by villagers regarding taxi permits for rural communities. The Minister noted that while the permits are currently under a freeze period, the government is actively reviewing legislation related to permit sales, which has been a contentious issue.
“Stakeholder engagement is underway to find resolutions, and discussions will resume once these issues are adequately addressed,” the Minister clarifies.
Furthermore, the government is encouraging village-based taxi services to consider adopting a cooperative model as part of broader efforts to develop the transport sector.
“This initiative aligns with the government's strategy to diversify livelihoods and income sources for communities.”
The Minister stated that the goal is to enhance the well-being of the community by not only granting market access but also by providing essential infrastructure support such as better roads and access to water.
Meanwhile, Village elder Eroni Koroiwaca thanked the Government for the timely assistance.
“We are thankful Minister for the Government intervention and rest assured that this is the beginning of a new era for our village.”
Mr. Koroiwaca said that the villagers no longer have to use river water for daily needs and they look forward to a brighter future for our village through continued collaboration for future development.