Dutch water experts support flood assessment in Fiji

News item | 06-11-2025 | 01:49

This week, a Dutch team of technical experts is in Fiji at the request of the Fiji Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways to assess the causes of the Ba River’s frequent and intense flooding. The team, led by Fredrik Huthoff, is consulting with a wide range of Fijian government and international stakeholders to ensure effective coordination and follow-up.

Fiji and the Netherlands join forces to address flood risks in Ba River

The team’s mission focuses on identifying next steps and measures to address the recurring flooding that affects local communities and infrastructure in the Ba River catchment. Over the course of their visit, they are meeting with officials from the Fiji Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, other government departments, and development partners to share expertise and gather local insights.

The mission is funded through a grant from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and implemented through the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) under the Dutch Disaster Risk Reduction and Surge Support (DRRS) programme. A peer-reviewed report with key findings and recommendations will be released shortly after the team returns to the Netherlands.

This collaboration highlights how Dutch water management expertise contributes to Pacific water security and climate adaptation goals. The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Wellington extends its appreciation to Marau Vuli and his team at the Fiji Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for their warm cooperation and support in facilitating this mission.

Dutch and Fijian water experts inspecting flood control infrastructure along the Ba River
Dutch and Fijian water experts inspecting flood control infrastructure along the Ba River