Namau Water Project a new milestone in development of Tailevu
There was cause for celebration when the Namau Water Project was opened by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama in Tailevu. It marked a significant milestone in the continuing development of one of the country’s biggest provinces.
It stands as a symbol of hope for the many people who benefit from it in terms of a regular supply of clean water to Korovou town, five of its surrounding villages, three schools and three farming communities.
For areas that still do not have a reliable supply of clean water, Mr Bainimarama says by 2030 we expect every Fijian to have reliable access to safe, drinking water, much like what the Namau Water Project now supplies.
The importance of clean water to our health and wellbeing cannot be over emphasised. It is a basic necessity of life. Without it, we, cannot survive and operate our homes, schools, hospitals, industries and various institutions.
In some areas, people still drink from crude water sources, unfiltered and untreated. While these sources have sustained them over the years, they still need to be upgraded to remove health risks.
The sources are also vulnerable to unfavourable weather events.
The $20 million Namau project saves $50 million in water carting cost annually. It’s an infrastructure investment that will pay dividends in many ways in the long term.
According to Mr Bainimarama beyond the 3800 Fijians whose lives the project has already changed for the better, they have already identified 12 new villages, six settlements, seven schools and two more farming communities in Vulagi and Waidalice that can access treated water from Namau.
It demonstrates the projected potential benefits of the project. The economic spinoff is unlimited.