Habitat for Humanity Fiji (HFH Fiji), with support from the Rabi Council of Leaders, has made significant improvements to water quality and accessibility on Rabi Island. In 2023, the Council highlighted the urgent need for water access in several communities, including the Tiburaro, Tabwewa Meang, and Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) settlements in Tabwewa, as well as the Kesukesu and Nadoi communities in Uma.
Residents in Tiburaro faced the burden of traveling long distances to fetch water from creeks, while those in the SDA, Kesukesu, and Nadoi settlements only had limited access, receiving water for just one to two hours each day. This lack of water has made it increasingly difficult for women to care for the elderly and disabled individuals, as well as manage household tasks.
Furthermore, the limited financial resources have hindered the maintenance of existing water systems, leading to their deterioration. This situation has increased the risk of waterborne diseases among women and children who were forced to use contaminated water sources.
In response to these challenges, the New Zealand High Commission in Fiji allocated approximately $119,000 to HFH Fiji to construct a new water system in Tiburaro and to improve four other communities’ infrastructures. This initiative led to the establishment of the island’s first Water Committee, comprising women and community members, to ensure representation in decisions related to the maintenance and operation of the water systems. Empowerment workshops focusing on financial literacy were also conducted to assist the committees in overseeing community member contributions.
Additionally, HFH Fiji enhanced water quality by providing user-friendly portable bucket water filters, thanks to the support of another partner organization. These filters effectively remove contaminants, ensuring safe drinking water.
A total of 38 bucket water filters were distributed to local families for everyday use, while seven were provided to the Rabi Council of Leaders for future disaster response initiatives, and two were allocated to community health centers.
With around 800 residents living across five settlements on Rabi Island, this project has significantly improved their quality of life by ensuring access to safe and reliable water.