Government’s development agenda for the new financial year in the province of Naitasiri will focus on the critical sectors of roads, water, electricity, and education.
This was highlighted today by the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and National Disaster Management, Hon. Inia Seruiratu, while opening the Naitasiri Provincial Council Meeting in Vunidawa.
Speaking in the iTaukei language, Minister Seruiratu informed members of the council who represent the 16 districts in Naitasiri that development in these sectors is foundational in responding to the needs of their communities and in improving their livelihoods.
He added that development in Naitasiri would only be successful if the people were willing to take ownership and work with government.
Roads
In the roads sector, Government will extend the road network from Nakorosule to Waibalavu, and ultimately to Nawaisomo at a cost of $1.5m. Government is also spending $7.5m to extend the road network from Sawanikula village to Nasauvere; $1.25m for the Sawani/Serea Rd; $0.6m for the Nakorosule Crossing; and $0.53m for the Wailoa Crossing.
Water
Minister Seruiratu said that the water dam at Nakorosule District School would be upgraded at a cost of $153,000.00. This is in addition to the $4.2m water project covering eight communities across the country including Lomaivuna. A further forty-four communities and villages in Naitasiri vulnerable to droughts in the dry seasons will also receive 5,000ltr water tanks.
Electricity
In relation to power supply, Government will extend the grid to the Lomaivuna area at a cost of $0.82m and also construct the Qiolevu line costing $0.48m. Government has also lined up rural electrification projects for Naitauvoli, Waibau, and Vatulili.
Education
For education, Minister Seruiratu said a new kindergarten and a teacher’ quarters will be constructed at Naitavuni Primary School. Repair works will also be conducted at classrooms at Nadakuni Primary School and for teachers’ quarters at Nasele Catholic, Wainawaqa Primary, and Navuso District Schools. Other upgrading of education facilities throughout the province are totalled at $0.45m.
Minister Seruiratu also emphasized to the members of the Council meeting that development is about partnership. He has urged the people of Naitasiri to work closely with Government in the identification of development needs for the province.
Members of the Council also had the opportunity to raise their issues of concern directly to the Minister during a question and answer session this morning. The two day meeting ends tomorrow.