On Thursday, a significant celebration took place in Vusama Village, Nadroga, following the introduction of a new tap water system, officiated by Minister for Public Works, Ro Filipe Tuisawau. This development has finally ended the long-held struggle of villagers who relied on boreholes and wells for their water supply, ensuring access to clean water for the first time.
Mereani Roro, age 47, expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “We thank God and the Government. This is the first time we are getting fresh water from the tap, which we have been longing for a long time.” The provision of tap water marks a profound change in the villagers’ lives, paralleling the improvements observed in similar communities across Fiji.
Village headman Sakiusa Nagata shared the challenges faced by the villagers prior to this development, including using wooden sleighs and bullock-pulled carts to transport water. Health concerns had previously arisen due to the use of unsafe water sources, prompting the Ministry of Health to declare the village at risk for waterborne diseases.
Minister Tuisawau highlighted the commitment of the government to enhance living conditions through secure access to treated water. He acknowledged that the new system not only addresses health issues but also aims to meet the community’s needs as outlined in the Water Strategy 2050. He also mentioned the importance of partnerships with the private sector for funding various infrastructural improvements, such as solar-powered water projects.
This latest initiative in Vusama aligns with similar projects throughout Fiji, where access to clean water has been a priority. For instance, similar projects have recently unfolded in Matakitu Estate, enhancing water accessibility directly to homes for the first time in a century, reflecting ongoing government efforts to improve public health and strengthen community resilience.
With continued investments in water infrastructure, communities like Vusama can look forward to a future characterized by better health, improved hygiene, and enhanced quality of life. These initiatives represent a hopeful pivot towards sustainable development across Fiji, ensuring that no Fijian is left behind in accessing essential resources.
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