Beqa Communities Strengthen Water Management Skills Ahead of El Niño

A week-long National Rural Water Committee Training has commenced in Naceva Village, Beqa, aimed at strengthening community capacity to manage and maintain rural water systems.

The training was officially opened on September 22 and is being conducted through collaboration between the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, and the Water Authority of Fiji, with funding support from UNICEF Pacific.

The programme combines awareness of Fiji’s Rural Water Sanitation Policy with practical training on the management and maintenance of rural water infrastructure.

Participants are being trained in the care of water sources, reservoirs and reticulation systems, as well as the maintenance of water tanks, ecological purification systems and sanitation facilities.

Representing the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management at the opening was Assistant District Officer Suva, Kelepi Vakarusa.

Vakarusa highlighted the importance of strong cooperation between communities, government agencies and non-government organisations to ensure rural water schemes are properly maintained and continue serving communities effectively.

The training is particularly timely as Fiji prepares for potential El Niño impacts, which could bring prolonged periods of reduced rainfall and place additional pressure on community water supplies.

Authorities are encouraging communities to strengthen water conservation and preparedness measures, with effective local management seen as an important part of ensuring access to safe and reliable water during challenging weather conditions.