The villages of Vusama and Navisabasaba in Nadroga have taken a significant step towards improved public health and quality of life with the launch of a $3.4 million government-funded water project. This initiative, confirmed by Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau, addresses over two decades of struggles with water insecurity and health issues caused by contaminated wells and boreholes.
The recently commissioned Vusama-Navisabasaba Village Water Project connects both communities to the main water line, bringing safe, treated water to residents for the first time. Minister Tuisawau highlighted that the previous reliance on contaminated water sources led to numerous waterborne diseases, significantly affecting the villagers’ health and livelihoods.
Chairman of the village Asivurusi Naivalulevu expressed immense gratitude for the completion of the project, referring to it as a “long-awaited dream.” He noted the substantial impact on daily life, as availability of clean water is expected to drastically improve hygiene and overall health outcomes for the community.
Government officials underscored that access to clean water is not just a basic necessity; it plays a crucial role in fostering economic resilience, especially in proximity to key tourism developments like the InterContinental resorts. In addition, assessments are currently under way with the help of UNICEF to identify other communities within Fiji that also lack safe drinking water, prioritizing those areas likely to face high risk from waterborne diseases in the years to come.
This project is part of a broader effort by the Fijian government to enhance water access throughout rural areas, aligning with the Water Sector 2050 Strategy. The successful implementation in Vusama and Navisabasaba mirrors similar initiatives across the nation, signifying a commitment to ensure no community is left behind in accessing essential resources.
The positive shift in water quality and availability heralds hope for the residents and points towards a future where improved health, enhanced productivity, and an overall better quality of life are attainable for all Fiji residents.
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