For nearly two decades, Ifereimi Kilisama, a 63-year-old resident of Nakorobalavu, Nadroga, has faced immense challenges in accessing water, necessitating a tough 20-meter trek using crutches to his cousin’s house to collect water due to the absence of taps in his own home. Kilisama suffered serious injuries after being hit by a truck in 2002, which hindered his mobility and forced him to rely on crutches to carry heavy buckets of water back home. He recalled the physical and emotional toll this routine took on him, stating, “Some days I accept things the way they are but there have also been days where I’ve cried out to God about my circumstances.”
Recently, Kilisama received promising news that he would be one of 22 individuals living with disabilities to benefit from a newly launched rainwater harvesting initiative. This program, spearheaded by the European Union through the Inclusive Climate Action for Fiji project, will install a water tank at his home, radically changing his water accessibility. “This support is life-changing for me – it means I no longer have to stress over water supply, and I can finally access water from my own home,” he expressed, filled with joy.
The initiative is being executed in collaboration with several organizations, including the Rotary Pacific Water for Life Foundation and the Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation. This new water sourcing system not only promises to alleviate Kilisama’s daily burdens but also contributes to improved quality of life for other beneficiaries facing similar challenges.
The challenges faced by Kilisama resonate deeply with wider issues in Fiji, where many communities struggle with access to clean water. For instance, recent efforts in Kumi and Vusama have been significant in addressing these concerns, demonstrating the collective aim to enhance living standards through collaborative projects aimed at providing consistent water supply and addressing public health issues.
The implementation of such initiatives illustrates a proactive approach to integrating community support with government and organizational backing, creating a hopeful outlook for future developments in water access across rural Fiji. As these projects unfold, they embody the spirit of resilience and the power of collaboration to enhance the lives of many, particularly those living with disabilities.
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