For the people of Tarukua Village, a simple walk to school once depended on faith, timing, and the weather.
For years, villagers crossed a fragile bridge made from corrugated iron to reach the nearby school compound.
With every heavy rainfall, the structure weakened, until it was finally washed away — cutting off a vital link and raising daily concerns for children, elders and families.
Now, that worry has been replaced with relief and pride.
In 2025, Tarukua Village welcomed a newly constructed concrete crossing bridge and footpath, a development that has transformed daily life and strengthened the community’s connection to essential services.
“This bridge is a blessing for our village,” said Vakanawanawa Bakaniceva, speaking on behalf of the community.
“We want to thank the Government for this gift, delivered through the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management and the Eastern Division.”
The project was not just about infrastructure — it was about partnership.
Government support covered the purchase of construction materials, which were transported by boat to the remote Lau island village.
From there, Tarukua’s men carried the materials inland and worked side-by-side to construct the bridge themselves.
“It was our own people who built it,” Mr Bakaniceva said. “Everyone contributed in their own way.”
Assistant District Officer for Lau Province, Penina Wainiu, said the village qualified for assistance after submitting a formal request through its village meeting.
Support was provided under the Village and Community Bridges and Foot Crossings 1/3–2/3 Programme, with Government contributing $25,000 and the village providing labour and technical skills.
The improvements did not stop at the bridge.
Tarukua Village also received nine solar footpath lighting kits, now illuminating main walkways and the village green, making evenings safer for families and children.
For Tarukua, the bridge is more than concrete and steel — it is a symbol of shared effort, safer journeys, and a stronger future for the next generation.