The villagers of Kumi Village in Verata, Tailevu, will no longer face the challenge of accessing clean drinking water during dry spells, thanks to newly provided water tanks that will guarantee a reliable water supply year-round.
Today (21:03:2025), the villagers' long-awaited wish was fulfilled as they gathered in celebration. Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka, officially handed over 11 water tanks, ensuring the village has sufficient water supply throughout the year.
Additionally, two chainsaws were provided to assist villagers in ripping timbers for house construction and cutting trees before and after the disaster.
Hon. Ditoka said access to clean drinking water had been an ongoing challenge for the villagers.
“If there is something that characterises this district of Verata, it is the problem with water, the access to drinking water, and that was one of the requests that came from the village of Kumi that during the dry season, they are really hampered, and they face the difficulties of having no water, and it affects everything,” Minister Ditoka stated.
“The water supply from Viria and the water supply from Namau still haven't reached this area, which is why we agreed to assist them.”
Further, he said providing chainsaws was a step in the right direction and urged members of the community to help themselves.
“So they are aiming to have about five or six houses at the beginning, and I think towards the end of the project they are probably looking at 15 houses that they want to construct.”
Fulfilling the request of the villagers, the 11 water tanks and two chainsaws worth $25,966 were funded by the Commissioner Central Office under the Self-Help Programme (SHP) and HRW Program in the 2024-2025 financial year.