One hundred and eighty two (182) households in two villages of Naitasiri can access electricity following the commissioning of a Rural Electrification project today.
For the first time, the villages of Navatukorosia and Delaiwaimale in Naitasiri witnessed power supplied into their living rooms in a ceremony officiated by the Minister for Energy, Colonel Timoci Lesi Natuva.
Col Natuva said he knew of the struggles in the rural areas and was honored to be given the privilege of switching on the lights for the first time.
“It is through the efforts of Government that we want people in rural areas to benefit from resources also and not just those living in the urban areas,” he said.
But he reminded the villagers that they must now start working together to grow from what the government has started.
“Government is trying its best to uplift the livelihoods of people in rural areas and villages and it is now up to you to work together and stop waiting for Government hand outs.”
Government funded the costs of the scheme in the two villages through the rural electrification department, which injected $85, 682 for Navatukorosia and $59, 704 for Delaiwaimale.
Turaga ni Koro of Delaiwaimale, Sanaila Cavuduadua said it was joyful day for them as their prayers were finally answered after 10 years.
Students from Naduna District School at the Commissioning ceremony
“We used to look at the power poles that run across the villages since Monasavu was established but never in the history did we ever get a line or two.
“We only had kerosene lamps but we are thankful to Government that our plea has finally fallen on ears and now we have witnessed electricity in our homes,” he said.