The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) will work with the Ministry of Finance to engage with key stakeholders at the National Economic Summit to kickstart the ‘Water Sector Strategy 2050’, which will outline Fiji’s water sector priority projects and programs over the next three decades.
WAF CEO Dr Amit Chanan has welcomed the news that water will be a key focal area in the upcoming summit.
Dr Chanan says water plays a vital role in the Fijian economy be it tourism, food security, urban development and the emerging circular economy.
Water Sector 2050 is aimed at transforming how services are delivered, responding to climate vulnerability to services, renewing our ageing water and wastewater infrastructure, contributing to the circular economy, taking the water sector to net zero emissions and enhancing the natural environment.
Yesterday Dr Chanan provided a brief overview of the roles of the Water Authority of Fiji to the Minister for Finance and Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad and Assistant Minister for Finance, Hon. Esrom Immanuel.
He also discussed further strengthening areas that needed attention such as investment in Non-Revenue Water and wastewater treatment to improve environmental compliance.
Prof Prasad welcomed the work that WAF is starting on ‘Water Sector 2050’, stating that such long-term planning is absolutely critical for essential infrastructure like water.
He acknowledged the important role that WAF plays in terms of ensuring all Fijians have access to clean drinking water.
“I am interested in how we can resolve some of the pending issues, particularly when there are water cuts. Water is critical, you can go without electricity – but not without water. I want Water Authority to become very efficient and make sure that when there is a water disruption, alternate options such as water carting is available for everyone,” Prof Prasad said.
He also reassured and reaffirmed the Fiji Government’s support for the water and wastewater sector.
