Fiji’s waste management is set for a major upgrade through a $FJD12.5 million grant from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The grant agreement was signed in Suva between JICA and the Ministry of Local Government.
The funding will provide new waste management equipment, including dump trucks, compactor trucks, bulldozers, and excavators.
Minister Maciu Nalumisa said waste management was a challenge for municipal councils and affected service delivery, especially for smaller councils.
“We need to teach our children and communities the basics, simply putting rubbish in the proper bins is a good start,” Nalumisa said.
“This is not something government can do alone. We all need to work together as a nation to keep Fiji clean.”
The support is part of Japan’s Economic and Social Development Programme (ESDP).
Japan’s Deputy Head of Mission, Isami Takada, said: “We sincerely hope that the equipment provided under this project will be used effectively to create cleaner communities and improve working life of people across Fiji.
“Japan remains committed to working closely with Fiji as a trusted partner and looks forward to continued cooperation in the years ahead.”
JICA Resident Representative Yumi Kimura said equipment provided under the programme was intended to supplement the country’s environmental protection efforts.
“JICA has been supporting Fiji’s waste management initiatives since 2008 through several technical cooperation projects,” Kimura said.
The equipment will help municipal councils improve waste collection and environmental protection, with the Western Division landfill being developed as a model for best practices.
The grant aims to strengthen Fiji’s waste management capacity and help build a cleaner environment for all.
