STC YASA RELIEF SUPPLIES
YACHTIES who travelled to Fiji for a holiday are lending a helping hand to victims of Tropical Cyclone Yasa.
Tourists from as far as Germany and Holland visited villagers on the islands of Yadua, Galoa, Yaqaga in Bua and Druadrua and Mali in Macuata with relief supplies.
They were on Mali Island last week and assisted villagers set up equipment for safe drinking water.
Group member Stephane Chappuis from Switzerland said they were contacted by an international group called Sea Mercy to reach out to the islands and assess and assist cyclone victims.
“We made our assessment and sent back our reports and then we moved out to help these people because Sea Mercy was in touch with the National Disaster Management Office team,” he said.
“Our help also includes building materials, we informed Sea Mercy and organised the stuff which was then handed over to the affected islands.”
“Here on Mali Island, we set up a water maker for safe drinking and we did the same in Yadua for the villagers.”
Another member Ofelia Mendez of Panama said Galoa villagers were the worst hit.
“After visiting all the islands, we found Galoa to be the worst hit and they needed some temporary tents and we have provided them with the tents including a big one for their church.” she said.
“We have assisted also with food rations, depending on the feedback from communities and we wont cover Kia island because they have received a lot of help from other organisations.”
Ms Mendez said she could not get over the hospitality they have received from villagers.
“It’s just amazing and Fijians are the best people in the world that despite being hit hard by the cyclone, most were welcoming.”