Perfect Christmas Gift for Yaro Villagers
It was the perfect Christmas gift for Yaro villagers on Kia Island after a newly constructed borehole was commissioned last Friday.
Officiating at the commissioning at the memorable and life-changing moment for the village was the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Jone Usamate.
The commissioning was also fitting as December 17 marked the anniversary of Tropical Cyclone Yasa which ravaged the village last year.
Mr Usamate said the development was in line with government’s vision to ensure all Fijians had access to clean drinking water.
“We will continue to assist villagers and settlements around the country in achieving a reliable water source,” he said.
He understood the difficulties villagers faced and reminded them to value this resource with great responsibility.
“We need villagers to act responsibly and ensure the longevity of this source for future generations,” Mr Usamate said.
He applauded the villagers for harvesting rainwater by having water tanks available to complement this.
Village headman, Kumueli Lautiki,
commended the Government’s initiative and said this was indeed the best Christmas present for them.
Mr Lautiki said the borehole would ensure villagers have a reliable source of drinking water and secure the good health of their young generation.
“The sudden drizzling of rain during the function was a sign of the resilient spirit that kept our villagers persisting through the hardship that was brought about by TC Yasa,” he reiterated.
Meanwhile, Minister Usamate advised villagers to safeguard their properties, resources and ensure their family’s safety during the course of this Cyclone season. com.fj