Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured Fijians that Government is continuing to mobilise resources and deliver assistance to communities affected by worsening water shortages caused by El Niño.
Acknowledging the difficulties facing families, farmers and businesses, Mr Rabuka said the country had been preparing for prolonged dry weather for several months and would continue strengthening its response as conditions develop.
According to the latest figures presented to Parliament, 67 water trucks have been deployed, delivering more than 885,000 litres of water by road since October 30.
A further 810,000 litres were transported by sea between September 30 and October 30 to reach affected communities.
The Prime Minister said the Water Authority of Fiji, disaster management teams, regional development officials and other government agencies were working daily to maintain supplies, coordinate assistance and support vulnerable communities.
He acknowledged that Government could not control the weather or bring rainfall but said it could prepare, mobilise resources and do everything possible to protect people.
Mr Rabuka also renewed calls for greater international climate financing and assistance, stressing that small island nations such as Fiji should not be left to carry the growing burden of climate change alone.
He called for national solidarity and cooperation during the difficult period, saying the priority must remain helping affected communities rather than engaging in political disagreements.
“We will get through this together,” he said.
