The Niutao Water Project – funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) – began initial implementation in November 2023 to strengthen household water security on the island. A formal partnership between the Niutao Kaupule and the Fuligafou NGO was later confirmed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on 16th September 2024.
Phase 1 of the project was completed in 2024, when the Fuligafou team carried out a Rapid Assessment Household Water Survey across Niutao. This survey provided essential baseline information on household water needs, storage capacity, and existing infrastructure, ensuring that the Water Safety Plan is based on real evidence from the community.
As part of this assessment, the team also tested household drinking water for E. coli, which is the most reliable indicator of faecal contamination. This testing is vital for protecting public health, especially in rural communities and places like Niutao where most families rely on household tanks for drinking water.
Photo credits: Fuligafou NGO Facebook Page
Phase II of the project accelerated in the second half of 2025. This phase includes installing new roof‑guttering systems for 25 households and fitting water tanks for families across the island. In total, 77 water tanks have now been installed, greatly increasing Niutao’s rainwater harvesting capacity and strengthening household access to safe drinking water.
Photo credits: Fuligafou NGO Facebook Page
The Fuligafou Team is currently working on a plan for the further rolling out of its team to the island to continue works for these households.
The project directly supports Tuvalu’s National Priorities on water security, climate resilience, and community wellbeing, while also aligning with the Niutao Island Strategic Plan (ISP) priorities. By strengthening household water systems, the initiative aims to reduce vulnerability during dry periods, improve access to safe drinking water, and enhance the island’s long‑term resilience to climate change.
Community leaders have welcomed the project as a timely investment in Niutao’s future, ensuring that families have more reliable and sustainable water sources for years to come.
