Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama opened a water project for more than 60 households at Lovu in Lautoka today.
Residents had pursued the project for the past 12 years but upon the Prime Minister’s intervention it was fast tracked.
When opening the Seniyaya water project Commodore Bainimarama said infrastructure was critical in order to have a modern Fiji.
"A proper subdivision needs modern infrastructure and or course means water first and foremost," the Prime Minister said.
"I want all the people of Fiji to have clean and safe drinking water no matter where they live. Indeed, access to clean drinking water will be a right of every Fijian.
"Today we begin a new era in your community. This new water source will give access to clean and safe drinking water will raise your living standards and keep yourself and your children healthy."
The project was made possible through the partnership between Government, which provided two thirds of the costs while residents contributed the rest.
The community started off as an illegal settlement and did not have access to proper drinking water since 1994.
Residents endured through the hardships to now get proper water supply right in their homes.
"This shows the nation and the world what Fijians can do when they are determined," Prime Minister Bainimarama said.
"You didn't wait passively for Government to assist you. The community will thrive and grow because of you - because of the hard work, dedication and care with which you are building Seniyaya every day. Pass this to your children and this community's future will be secure," Commodore Bainimarama added.
He also urged residents and all Fijians to take part actively in the form of submissions for the draft Constitution.
-ENDS-