Newly-appointed Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau was advised on the Water Authority of Fiji’s (WAF) need to invest in resilient infrastructure and WAF’s planned water loss reduction program to mitigate water leakage yesterday.
He was briefed by WAF CEO Dr Amit Chanan and the board after receiving a traditional welcome at the WAF National Office in Nasinu.
Dr Chanan and the board took the opportunity to provide an overview of their current work and plans to the minister.
While addressing the management and staff, Ro Filipe acknowledged them for their commitment despite challenging circumstances.
“I sincerely thank you all for the services you have delivered in the past years – especially in the last 12 months – it has not been easy and it is not an easy task, it is difficult and a lot of you are subjected to criticism,” he said.
Ro Filipe said he was “greatly enlightened” after the briefing.
“I would like to thank the CEO of the Water Authority of Fiji Dr Amit Chanan, his management team and the board for their time to update and bring me up to speed on the challenges as well as plans in place for WAF. I look forward to working with WAF.”
The brief focused on the need to invest in resilient infrastructure due to the impacts of climate change and also delved into WAF’s planned water loss reduction program to mitigate water leakage.
Ro Filipe welcomed the work that WAF was starting on in terms of their “Water Sector 2050” program which would see engagement with Fijians on water priorities for the next three decades.
“Let me reassure you, from the board, management and the staff — I am here to work closely with you as a facilitator and also to support the organisation and the staff.”
Dr Amit said WAF was ready to work with Ro Filipe to achieve the best outcomes for the Fijian people.
“We welcome the fact that water is your number one priority, and the WAF team is ready to work with you and share your vision to improve water services for all Fijians,” he said.
“We do share your passion for advancing Fiji’s water supply and sanitation services to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals targets.”
