2-hour walk for water ends
Tavite Loaloa will never have to walk for two hours to fetch water for his family again. This has been made possible following the donation of 26 water tanks by the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama yesterday to people in some parts of Taveuni.
Mr Loaloa, 33 said he was grateful for the assistance of five water tanks to benefit the Navakawau community.
Before the donation arrived, fetching water for domestic use was a dreaded chore.
Mr Loaloa is thankful that school children no longer have to bear the responsibility.
“After coming home from school, our children go straight to the creek to get water. By the time they are back it is dark. We are relieved that we are receiving this help,” Mr Loaloa said. Iowana Maivalenisau, 32, said she was thankful that the Government heard their plea. “People here are gathered in numbers to show the Prime Minister and his delegation how thankful we are. Our plea to get clean and safe water has finally been answered,” Ms Maivalenisau said. “Now our children will not have to go to the creek to fetch water again. They can now concentrate in their studies rather than walking for two hours to get water. Our life will be easier now.” Mr Bainimarama said the handing over of the tanks was another example of the government’s continued efforts in ensuring the basic needs of all Fijians are met.
“The distribution of free water tanks is specifically targeted for drought- stricken and maritime areas. Government had allocated $1.4million for this initiative in this year’s budget,” Mr Bainimarama said.
“This involves the distribution of 1600 water tanks to over 436 villages, settlements and schools. Of this allocation, the Northern Division is earmarked to receive 786 water tanks.”
“I have been advised that the five water tanks cost $4375 and will greatly benefit the Navakawau community, as it offers an additional water storage of 25,000 litres to complement the existing borehole and rainwater harvesting sources.”
The 26 water tanks will benefit the district of Vuna.
Villages/settlements to benefit from the donation of water tanks:
Navakawau, Vuna, Waimaqere, Qarawalu, Nalovo, Vuna, Veikau, Kanacea and Wainiyako.