THE government of Japan has committed approximately $12million (JPY855million) grant for waste-management equipment expected to arrive in Fiji in 2027.
This was shared by Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa after holding a bilateral meeting with Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of the Environment earlier this week.
Mr Nalumisa said both parties held constructive discussions on strengthening co-operation in sustainable waste management, climate-resilient urban development, housing and municipal capacity building.
“Alongside the commitment, as well as the valuable contribution of JICA volunteers and the J-PRISM program in strengthening the capacity of Fiji’s municipal councils,” he said.
“A key focus of the discussions was Fiji’s request for technical and financial assistance for the Western Sanitary Landfill Project, which was endorsed by Cabinet in 2024.”
Mr Nalumisa said Fiji’s seeking support in areas including feasibility studies, engineering and landfill design, transfer stations, leachate and methane management, recycling and resource recovery.
“The two sides also discussed opportunities for cooperation in climate-resilient municipal infrastructure, town and country planning, GIS and spatial planning, affordable and climate-resilient housing, and the upgrading of informal settlements.”
Mr Nalumisa said Fiji also expressed interest in strengthening technical exchanges and partnerships between Japanese cities and Fiji’s municipal councils.
He said both parties welcomed the positive discussions and expressed interest in continuing engagement on the areas raised.
“The Japanese delegation advised that it would revert, following further discussions with its team in Japan and the Ambassador of Japan to Fiji ,on the proposed areas of cooperation and possible next steps.”
Mr Nalumisa thanked the Government and people of Japan for their continued friendship and support and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to strengthening the Fiji-Japan partnership towards climate-resilient and sustainable towns, cities and communities.
