The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has joined forces with the Government of Fiji and the Water Authority of Fiji, committing $385 million towards the ambitious Healthy Oceans and Water Security Improvement Project. This collaboration underscores a shared dedication to bolster Fiji’s water infrastructure and promote environmental sustainability, aligning with Fiji’s strategic frameworks for the year 2050 as well as its National Development Plan for the period 2025-2029.
Aaron Batten, Regional Director of ADB’s Pacific Subregional Office, emphasized the substantial enhancements planned for the Kinoya Wastewater Treatment Plant’s capacity and the extensive overhaul of wastewater infrastructure along the Suva-Nausori corridor. These upgrades are designed to curb water losses, enhance service reliability, and support urban development while prioritizing the health of Fiji’s ecosystems and marine environments.
A central focus of the project is the expansion of the Kinoya Wastewater Treatment Plant’s capacity, incorporating cutting-edge technologies aimed at minimizing energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, the initiative targets Fiji’s deteriorating pipe network to dramatically reduce water leakage. It is anticipated that these improvements will conserve over 10.5 million cubic meters of water annually and cut carbon emissions by more than 1,400 metric tons each year, crucial measures given the pollution issues affecting areas like Laucala Bay, driven by Suva’s rapid urban expansion.
Acting Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, highlighted the project as a symbol of governmental dedication to efficiently managing fundamental infrastructure projects consistent with the Water Authority of Fiji’s long-term objectives. The project is set to be implemented over a two-year period, illustrating Fiji’s commitment to effectively overcoming infrastructural hurdles.
The financial backbone of the project comes from ADB, which is extending a $304 million concessional loan at a highly favorable one percent interest rate, including a ten-year grace period, complemented by a $23 million grant aimed at regional training and capacity building. Furthermore, the Fijian government is contributing $59 million through taxes and import duties, showcasing a collaborative effort to resolve these pressing issues.
This extensive initiative does not only aim at upgrading the water supply and minimizing environmental impacts but also promotes sustainable development. Part of this initiative includes the establishment of a regional training hub in Lautoka, a strategic component designed to develop a skilled workforce capable of operating advanced water and wastewater systems throughout Fiji and the broader Pacific region.
Fiji’s collaboration with ADB reinforces its trajectory towards a sustainable and economically prosperous future, ensuring equitable access to essential services for all citizens while championing environmental protection and sustainability. Through this partnership, Fiji is positioning itself as a leader in environmentally-conscious infrastructure, setting a benchmark for the Pacific region.