After years of relying on untreated water, about 3000 residents of Nabouwalu and surrounding areas now have access to safe and clean drinking water following the commissioning of the new Nabouwalu Water Treatment Plant today.
The much-talked about project represents a significant milestone in the Coalition Government’s commitment to providing clean and safe drinking water to the people in the area.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officiated the event at the Naulumatua grounds, stressing the critical role of water in sustaining life.
The project was partly commissioned in 2022 by the previous administration and has now been completed under the term of the Coalition Government.
“Our new National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050, outlines the Coalition Government’s priority and unwavering commitment in ensuring that every Fijian has access to clean water, especially those in remote towns such as Nabouwalu,” said Prime Minister Rabuka.
“The Government is not only prioritising the needs of Fijians residing in our urban towns and cities, but is committed to ensuring equitable and sustainable development for all. As a responsible Government, we will ensure that every Fijian is provided equal footing to thrive.”
The $5.4 million project, initiated by the previous administration in 2022 and completed by the Coalition Government, features a state-of-the-art 2-million-litre Packaged Water Treatment Plant, a 1-megalitre reservoir (264,172 gallons), upgraded pipe networks, electrical systems, and backup generators—all of which are now fully operational.
PM Rabuka acknowledged the efforts of the previous government in initiating the project, which will support most of the key facilities such as the Nabouwalu Hospital and Health Centre, Nabouwalu Jetty, Nabouwalu Fire Station, Government Station and the Bua Provincial Council.
“This project will play a pivotal role in supporting the future growth and development of the upcoming Nabouwalu Township,” he added.
The successful completion of the project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Water Authority of Fiji, Caledonienne des Eaux (New Caledonia), SUEZ (France), Zion Civil Works Limited (Fiji), and Clyde Equipment (Fiji) Limited.
Also in attendance at the event were the Minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services Hon. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Hon. Filimoni Vosarogo, Assistant Minister for ITaukei Affairs Hon. Isikeli Tuiwailevu, Assistant Minister for Agriculture Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna and Assistant Minister for Information Hon. Aliki Bia.
