JOSAIA RALAGO
Government has been commended for reaching out to far flung communities in their efforts to deliver much needed services to Fijians.
Turaga Sauvou Dokanaisuva Ratu Ilimotama Waqanivalu made these comments when the Rights Empowerment and Cohesion (REACH) team reached the shores of Vunikodi Village, Udu in Macuata, to bridge the information gap and bring services closer to Fijians.
Ratu Ilimotama said their village was not an easy one to get to and applauded the Government’s effort in ensuring that they receive the services that they had to travel all the way to Labasa for.
“We are truly grateful to the Minister and her team for bringing these services to us,” he said.
Ratu Ilimotama said this was a clear indication that people in the outskirts of urban areas were not forgotten by the Government.
Children, youths and elders con-verged at the village hall to welcome the team and to register individuals in the Vola ni Kawabula (VKB), make their birth certificates and were able to access police and other Government services.
Minister Vuniwaqa, while speaking at the event, said this was the main purpose of the Government funded REACH program.
“The Government realises that it is difficult for Fijians living in such areas to access these services and that is why we have brought it to you,” she said.
“While travelling up to get to your village we witnessed that it is not easy for villagers in Udu to get to Labasa to access these services.”
The villagers of Vunikodi would hire boats, brave the rough seas to get to Qaranivai where they catch a bus to get to Labasa.
“The Government will continue to ensure that all Fijians have access to basic services,” Minister Vuniwaqa said.
There are about 120 villagers that reside in Vunikodi.