Ratu Baleidreima, a 53-year-old resident of Nadi, is determined to create a safer living environment for his family, aiming to construct a home that can withstand future flood events. Recently, he, along with his wife and their five children, were forced to evacuate their residence after floodwaters inundated their home on Friday. They are currently seeking refuge at Andrews Primary School, which is serving as an evacuation center.
In 2019, Mr. Baleidreima purchased a parcel of land at Nawaijikuma Settlement in Nawaka, an area known for its vulnerability to flooding, where he built a makeshift home for his family. As a security guard, he explained that every time floods strike, the family has to relocate to safety.
His heartfelt desire is to construct a higher-post house to provide better protection for his loved ones, but financial constraints related to his children’s education have made this goal difficult to achieve. His eldest child attends the Nadi Special School, while his second oldest is set to start high school next year, and the three younger children are in primary school.
Mr. Baleidreima recalled the distressing experience of their recent evacuation: “On Christmas Day, we were preparing for lunch when the floodwaters began to rise. I alerted the authorities, and we quickly gathered essential items before being transported to safety. Once the waters recede, I will return home to begin the cleanup.”
This situation highlights the resilience and determination of families like Mr. Baleidreima’s who continue to seek stability and safety in the face of recurring natural disasters. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of climate challenges.
In summary, Mr. Baleidreima’s commitment to his family’s safety and education underscores the enduring human spirit in overcoming adversities, and he remains hopeful about building a brighter future despite the difficulties they face.
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