The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Pacific Island Representative Sheldon Yett has praised Government’s efforts to make safe and clean drinking water accessible to all Fijians.

“Fiji has done so much better compared to other Pacific Island Countries but there still needs to be more work that needs to be done,” Mr Yett said.

He highlighted this during World Water Day celebrations at Kshatriya Hall in Suva yesterday.

“Fiji is at the front of the line on the quest to provide safe drinking water and it is looking at this issue across all ministries because we all understand the importance of clean water,” he said.

“It is critically important that Fijians have access to clean drinking water.

“It is essential for ensuring that people are free from disease, not only clean water but good sanitation and hygiene as well.”

The theme is ‘Valuing Water’.

Minister for Infrastructure and Meteorological Services Jone Usamate’s key message was based on the theme.

“Use it well because there are some people in this country that do not have access to clean and safe drinking water,” he said.

Mr Usamate said observing World Water Day was a platform to inspire people all over the world to learn more about water related issues and raise awareness.

“I have been to places just close by to Suva and people are still drinking out of wells,” he said.

“One of Government’s target is to make sure that everyone in this country has access to safe and clean water.

“You should value the fact that water comes straight to your homes. Having access to clean safe drinking water is something we should cherish.”

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