Viani Bay, Fiji – 21 November 2025: Viani Bay’s commitment to sustainable tourism has taken another meaningful step forward with the installation of a solar powered desalination system that now provides clean drinking water for Ucunivatu Primary School and neighbouring households. The project, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office through the Embassy of Germany in Suva, was proposed and implemented by Dive Academy Fiji in close partnership with the school committee and community volunteers.
The initiative supports the wider goals of responsible tourism, demonstrating how local operators can work with international partners to improve community resilience while protecting the natural environment that underpins Fiji’s tourism appeal. The project complements Dive Academy Fiji and Viani Bay Resort’s long standing work in reef restoration, youth development, marine education and small enterprise support across the bay.
Water insecurity has long been a challenge for the school. Its well produces brackish water and rainwater collection is unreliable during dry spells, often leaving families and students without access to safe drinking water. The new system, the first of its kind in the bay, now delivers a steady supply to 52 students, teachers and their families, the kindergarten group and nearby households. Powered entirely by solar energy with battery storage and generator backup, the installation includes pre filtration, reverse osmosis, multiple storage tanks, distribution lines, school taps and connections to teachers’ quarters. Members of the school committee have been trained to operate the fully off grid system, ensuring long term reliability without dependence on expensive deliveries.
Head Teacher Mrs Marica Sorowaqa said the change has been immediate and deeply felt by the school community. She noted that the availability of clean drinking water each day represents a major shift in the quality of life for the students and their families, particularly during extended dry periods.
The German Embassy’s involvement reflects its broader commitment to climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure in the Pacific. Deputy Head of Mission Mrs Melanie Freund said the Embassy is proud to support practical solutions that reinforce community wellbeing and strengthen the foundations of remote island education and health. She recognised the technical expertise and hands on commitment of both the Viani Bay community and Dive Academy Fiji throughout the project.
The organisation’s conservation and youth development work continues to expand alongside this latest milestone. Recent efforts include crown of thorns starfish removal to safeguard Rainbow Reef and the ongoing training of young Fijians through Dive Academy Fiji’s scholarship and PADI professional pathway programme. These initiatives are helping build a new generation of ocean stewards who can support both environmental restoration and the sustainable growth of local tourism.
Co Founder Jone Waitaiti said the project reflects the spirit of giving back to a community that has shaped his own upbringing, while Co Founder Marina Walser noted that the success of the desalination system demonstrates what can be achieved when community led action is matched with international support and technical know how. Their approach highlights a realistic model for other coastal communities seeking robust, low maintenance water solutions in a changing climate.
The installation not only enhances daily life for families in Viani Bay but also strengthens the long term sustainability of the region’s tourism offering. By improving community resilience and supporting essential services, operators like Dive Academy Fiji are helping ensure that tourism growth remains aligned with local needs and environmental protection. This supports Fiji’s wider reputation as a destination committed to responsible tourism, community partnership and safeguarding the marine environment that attracts visitors from around the world.
