In Fiji, reliable access to safe water is a priority for rural and maritime communities, particularly as changing rainfall patterns, dry periods and saltwater intrusion place more pressure on existing supplies.
To support this work, Rotary Pacific Water (RPW), a Fiji-based non-profit organisation delivering water, sanitation and hygiene solutions in rural Fiji, worked with Earth Sciences NZ to develop and deliver a four-day Technical Training Programme on Groundwater Engineering.
The training brought together 54 participants from Fiji’s Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, RPW and eight private drilling companies. Delivered by Earth Sciences New Zealand groundwater specialists Channa Rajanayaka and Lawrence Kees, the programme was shaped around Fiji’s hydrogeological, institutional and climate context, with a mix of technical presentations, practical discussion and examples that participants could relate to their day-to-day work.
The aim was to strengthen local capability in groundwater assessment, drilling practice and sustainable water supply planning. For the organisations involved, the value was practical: shared technical language, stronger links between government, non-profit and private sector practitioners, and a clearer understanding of how groundwater can support more climate-resilient water systems in Fiji.
Participant and Ministry feedback highlighted the relevance of the training to Fiji’s water security needs, with the Ministry describing the programme as “very informative, engaging and fruitful”. The training also generated national media interest, reflecting wider attention on groundwater management as part of Fiji’s response to climate and water supply challenges.
Stronger groundwater planning helps ensure reliable, safe water supplies for communities facing a changing climate. Discussions are continuing with RPW and the Ministry on next steps to build on the momentum from the programme.
