Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the Government has been responding to worsening water shortages across Fiji, with 67 water trucks deployed to deliver supplies to affected communities.

In a statement on the Government’s response to El Niño, Mr Rabuka said water shortages were affecting families, farmers and businesses as the country continued to experience prolonged dry weather.

He said the Water Authority of Fiji had been working daily to maintain supplies and provide water to communities facing shortages.

Figures presented to Parliament show that more than 885,000 litres of water have been delivered by road since October 30, while a further 810,000 litres were transported by sea between September 30 and October 30.

Disaster management teams, regional development officials and other Government agencies are also coordinating assistance and preparing for potentially worsening conditions in the coming months.

Mr Rabuka said the Government had been preparing for the effects of El Niño for several months and would continue to strengthen its response where necessary.

He acknowledged the seriousness of the drought, saying while the Government could not control rainfall, it could mobilise resources and take measures to protect communities.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Fiji’s ongoing calls for greater climate financing and international assistance, particularly for small island nations facing the growing effects of climate change.

He said Fiji should not be expected to manage the increasing burden of climate change without support from the international community.

Mr Rabuka called for national cooperation and solidarity during the difficult period, stressing the importance of supporting affected communities as the country continues to deal with water shortages.

He said Government agencies would remain focused on delivering assistance while preparing for the challenges ahead.