Peceli Marua grateful for Government support
“PROJECTS like a footpath, clean drinking water and improved sanitation facilities is a major development for us.”
These were the sentiments of Peceli Marua, from Wainilotulevu, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government for its dedication to fostering progress in their community.
This progress came through the commissioning earlier this month by the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, National Disaster Management Office, Sakiasi Ditoka, together with local officials and community leaders, of development projects in the remote villages of Wainilotulevu and Nasoqo, nestled in the rugged terrain of Namosi.
These initiatives ranged from essential footpaths and crossings to safe drinking water from taps and upgraded sanitary infrastructure.
The commissioning was witnessed by the villagers who warmly welcomed the longawaited developments as huge steps toward improving their livelihoods.
“I am really thankful to this Government for helping us develop,” Mr Marua said.
Reflecting on the challenges faced prior to the implementation of these projects, he highlighted the journey villagers had to undertake for basic necessities.
“Before the construction of the road, our daily trips to Navua for essential supplies were challenging,” he recalled.
“We had to travel through the forest and cross rivers, often relying on horses, which would take hours. Now with the infrastructure development, access has become much more convenient.”
The villagers’ struggles and hardship over the years were evident in the stories passed down by the elders of the village, highlighting the difficulties they endured in accessing basic amenities.
Mr Marua emphasised the importance of maintaining and expanding upon the existing infrastructure projects.
“While we are happy about these achievements, we want to further develop our village,” he remarked.
“Renovating our celebration tent (vale ni soqo) and the installation of solar panels are among the priorities outlined in our development plan.”
Mr Marua explained that agriculture was the main source of income for the villagers which mainly sustained the community.
“Farming, particularly the cultivation of yaqona and dalo, serves as our primary source of income,” he said.
“We rely on these crops, which are sold in town, to sustain our livelihoods.”
Mr Marua further expressed gratitude to the Government for its unwavering support and commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by remote communities like Wainilotulevu and Nasoqo.
“We are grateful to the Government for recognising our needs and allocating resources to uplift our villages,” he remarked.