A HIGH-LEVEL delegation from the Adaptation Fund and UN-Habitat will visit project communities in Lami, Sigatoka, Nadi, and Lautoka to assess efforts to strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable informal settlements.
The visits are part of a Portfolio Monitoring Mission reviewing the progress of an Adaptation Fund-supported project aimed at reducing the risks posed by climate change and disasters to informal urban communities.
Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa met the delegation last week and acknowledged the continued partnership between the Government, the Adaptation Fund and UN-Habitat.
Mr Nalumisa said informal settlements faced complex challenges, with flooding, landslides and storm surges often compounding existing socio-economic vulnerabilities and limited access to essential urban services.
He said the project was important in improving conditions and strengthening resilience in vulnerable communities.
The project, Increasing the Resilience of Informal Urban Settlements in Fiji that are Highly Vulnerable to Climate Change and Disaster Risks, began in July 2018 and is scheduled for completion in July 2027.
The monitoring mission is reviewing project progress and achievements, the sustainability and maintenance of completed adaptation infrastructure, community participation, gender and social inclusion, and opportunities to strengthen collaboration among Government, development partners and implementing agencies.
Mr Nalumisa reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with communities and development partners to ensure climate adaptation initiatives addressed local needs and delivered sustainable outcomes beyond the project’s completion.
During their visits, the delegation will engage directly with stakeholders and assess first-hand the interventions supported through the project.
