Residents of Rakani Settlement, in the district of Dama in Bua, have expressed gratitude towards the Fijian Government for the commissioning of their new water project by the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Inia Seruiratu last week.
The water project was completed under the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s Self-Help Programme (SHP) at a cost of close to $20,000.
Rakani resident, Ms Parvati said the water issue at their settlement was an issue they had been facing for the past 30 years.
Prior to the commissioning of the water projects, the residents used to fetch water from a nearby creek or a well for consumption and other household chores.
“Life used to be very hard when we had to rely on the well because whenever we had a dry spell, there would be no water and also with the use of the creek, there were risks of water-borne diseases. Today, we are really happy and thankful to the Government, the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and the Commissioner Northern Division for this great assistance. Our prayers for many years have been answered with this project,” said the 61-year-old grandmother.
The water project included an upgrade of the settlement’s water system and the provision of a 10,200 litres water tank and piping.
Speaking while commissioning the project, Minister Seruiratu reiterated that although the funding for the project may have been little, the return of investment and the impact to the community are greater.
“The Government’s plans have not changed,” he said.
“We want to ensure that everyone enjoys the best of the services that can be offered by the Government. People in urban areas enjoy electricity, they enjoy good water and good roads, the same applies to people in rural areas, but it will take resources to get there. Unfortunately, we cannot address all the issues at once, but let me assure all of you that no one will be left behind.”
Minister Seruiratu also reminded the residents of Rakani to pursue other economic activities available to them as Bua has a lot of potential.
“This is an opportunity to improve your lives and I know this will contribute to the socio-economic development in your community.”
The water project will benefit 35 Fijians from seven households.
Meanwhile, in addressing the residents of Rakani, Minister Seruiratu also encouraged them to ensure that they were prepared for the current cyclone season.
He reminded the men from the settlement that they had the biggest role to ensure the safety of their families during times of disaster.
