Japan signs $12.5m grant to upgrade Fiji’s waste management

Ageing garbage trucks, frequent breakdowns and illegal dumping across Fiji’s towns are expected to ease following the signing of a $12.5 million waste management grant from Japan in Suva today.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a grant agreement with the Ministry of Local Government to supply modern waste management equipment to all 13 municipal councils, strengthening rubbish collection, disposal and environmental protection nationwide.

The equipment package includes compactor trucks, dump trucks, bulldozers, excavators, wheel loaders, backhoe loaders, woodchippers and ride mowers.

Officials say the new machinery will improve service reliability, reduce downtime caused by breakdowns and help extend the lifespan of landfill sites.

The support is provided under Japan’s Economic and Social Development Programme (ESDP), which assists developing countries through the supply of essential machinery sourced largely from reputable Japanese manufacturers.

JICA Fiji Resident Representative Ms Yumi Kimura said the grant reflected Japan’s long‑standing commitment to improving waste management in Fiji.

“This equipment will be used by all 13 municipal councils and will contribute to more efficient waste collection, better waste management and enhanced protection of Fiji’s environment,” Ms Kimura said.

She said JICA has supported Fiji’s waste sector since 2008 through technical cooperation projects such as the 3R Project and the J‑PRISM programmes, which focus on reducing waste, strengthening council capacity and promoting environmental awareness at community level.

Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa said waste management was becoming an increasing challenge as towns and cities continued to grow.

“Waste management is not just about rubbish. It is central to public health, environmental protection, climate resilience and the quality of life of our people,” Mr Nalumisa said.

He said many councils had struggled to maintain services due to outdated machinery, rising operational costs and increasing waste volumes, often resulting in service disruptions and higher maintenance expenses.

“The modern equipment provided through this grant will significantly improve waste collection, transportation and disposal services across our municipalities,” he said.

Mr Nalumisa also called on communities to play their part, urging residents to stop illegal dumping and take pride in keeping their towns and cities clean.

He thanked the Government of Japan and JICA for their continued partnership, saying the grant would support Fiji’s push for cleaner, safer and more sustainable communities.