More than $7million worth of waterways infrastructure projects have been completed nationwide under the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry’s 2025–2026 Capital Works Program.
The projects are delivering critical flood protection, coastal defences and irrigation upgrades to communities across Fiji.
Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna said the program, funded through government investment and development partners, had been fully implemented across every province, reinforcing the country’s resilience to climate change while protecting communities, farms and key infrastructure.
The completed works include coastal and riverbank protection, flood retention infrastructure, drainage improvements, irrigation support and upgrades to major drainage schemes.
Mr Tunabuna said the program reflected Government’s commitment to long-term climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction.
“With the millions of dollars entrusted to this ministry, we have delivered tangible, life-changing infrastructure to protect our farmers, our villagers, and the livelihoods of all Fijians.
“We acknowledge the trust of every taxpayer and every development partner who invested in this work.
“Your contribution has directly benefitted the most vulnerable communities, protecting them from the immediate and future impacts of climate change.”
Among the largest investments was the $1.54m Qalinabulu creek Flood Retention dam, which is expected to provide flood protection for an estimated 44,178 people, making it the program’s single largest beneficiary project.
The ministry also completed 14 coastal and riverbank protection projects, safeguarding more than 1900 villagers from tidal surges and erosion.
Major projects included the $682,000 Naviyago Village Riverbank Protection works in Lautoka, the $540,000 Nasegai Village Bank Protection works in Kadavu and the $350,000 Wainimakutu Village Bank Protection Works in Namosi.
Across Fiji, more than 260 kilometres of drainage works were completed in Rewa, Tailevu, Naitasiri, Serua, Cakaudrove, Macuata and Nadroga/Navosa, improving water management for 1172 farms while reducing flood risks and crop losses.
The program also supplied irrigation equipment to farming clusters in Cakaudrove, Macuata, Sigatoka and Lakeba, while more than $811,000 was invested in maintaining rice irrigation systems in Bua, Macuata and the Central Division.
Grants to the Western, Central and Northern divisions drainage boards supported floodgate upgrades, access road improvements and more than 55kilometres of drainage enhancement works, strengthening long-term climate resilience.
Mr Tunabuna said the program represented more than infrastructure investment.
“This is not just a list of projects; it is a record of real protection for real families. Every seawall built, every drainage canal cleared, every retention dam constructed is a shield against climate change. We thank the taxpayers and partners for their trust. We have delivered on our promise, and we will continue to build a more resilient Fiji for generations to come.”
