Fiji is seeking $US10 million to strengthen flood protection and climate resilience for 8428 people living in more than 60 villages and farming settlements across Ra, Naitasiri, Tailevu and Rewa.
The proposed Rewa River and Tributaries Adaptation Programme aims to safeguard communities, protect critical infrastructure and reduce the impacts of climate-related disasters.
Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau sought continued support from the Adaptation Fund during a bilateral meeting with its head, Mikko Ollikainen, on the margins of the Pacific Pre-COP31 meeting in Nadi last week.
Developed in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), the program will focus on the Rewa River catchment and its four major tributaries — Wainibuka, Waidina, Wainimala and Waimanu.
Ro Filipe said the initiative would combine climate-resilient infrastructure, environmental restoration and improved community disaster preparedness.
“Our priority is to protect vulnerable communities, safeguard livelihoods and strengthen critical infrastructure against flooding and other climate-related disasters,” he said.
The program will also support women, youths, persons with disabilities and rural communities through skills development, sustainable livelihoods and greater participation in climate adaptation activities.
During the meeting, Mr Ollikainen acknowledged Fiji’s climate advocacy and the importance of improving access to adaptation financing for vulnerable Pacific island countries.
He indicated that Fiji’s proposed concept note was expected to be considered by the Adaptation Fund board at its November meeting.
Ro Filipe welcomed the engagement, acknowledging the Adaptation Fund, SPREP and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change for their continued support.
“This pilot program will serve as a model for climate-resilient river catchment management across Fiji, helping protect vulnerable communities, strengthen infrastructure and safeguard livelihoods for future generations,” he added.
The proposed program forms part of Fiji’s broader efforts to strengthen climate adaptation through government action, international partnerships and community-focused investments.
