The re-establishment of the Drainage Board is not merely a symbolic gesture, it is a tangible manifestation of our commitment to building and safeguarding a sustainable and resilient future for our agricultural sector and the livelihood of our farming communities.

These were the words of Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu when handing over appointment letters for the 33 new drainage board members for the Central, Western and Norther Divisions in Suva this morning.

“Agriculture has been the backbone of our economy for generations. The sugarcane and the non-sugarcane farming communities have been the driving force behind this success. However, over the past three decades, our farming landscapes have undergone drastic changes and is being impacted by extreme weather events and changing climatic conditions,” said Hon. Rayalu.

“These challenges have underscored the importance of a robust and well-maintained drainage system, which is essential for ensuring the productivity and sustainability of our agricultural sector.”

“The abolishment of the Drainage Board seven years ago by the previous regime was a move that caused concerns amongst our farming communities which negatively impacted drainage, leading to flooding in many areas in Fiji,” added Hon. Rayalu.

Hon Rayalu added that the Coalition government made a commitment to the people of Fiji, one which was rooted in the understanding, that effective storm water and drainage management are not optional luxuries but crucial elements in guaranteeing prosperity and resilience of our agricultural sector.

“The re-establishment of the Drainage Board is a testament to our obligation to upholding the well-being of our farmers, preservation of our agricultural land, water management, and environmental stewardship in Fiji.”

“As we gather here today to witness the re-establishment of the Drainage Board, we do so and acknowledge the legal endorsement of the Drainage Act of 2023 and the principle Drainage Act of 1961, in entrusting this statutory body with critical responsibilities to ensure the proper maintenance and upkeep of existing drainage schemes and outfall structures.”

Hon. Rayalu reminded the new board members of the Drainage Board that their induction today marks the beginning of a new Chapter in Fiji’s agricultural history as they will be tasked with ensuring and overseeing the functionality of our main drains, outfall structures, flood gates, flap gates, and earthen seawall bunds to mitigate the impacts of flooding and waterlogging.

He added that their role is paramount as their work will directly influence the lives of farmers, the health of our ecosystems and the robustness of our economy.

Hon Rayalu reiterated that Government’s vision, is for a Fiji that can withstand the trials of extreme weather and one where our farming communities will thrive -not just survive.

“Together, we will forge a path towards a sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector, one that is capable of withstanding the tests of time and the unexpected impacts from climate change.”

He finally wished them all the best as they take on their new roles and said that Government recognizes the significance of this endeavour and had pledged unwavering support to the Drainage Board.

-ENDS-

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