Residents of Burerua village in Tailevu are ushering in a new era of access to clean drinking water following the official commissioning of a water meter project by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. This significant milestone comes after years of struggling with an unreliable water supply, compelling villagers to manage with untreated water. The initiative was largely driven by the villagers themselves, who raised approximately $11,000 and reached out to the Prime Minister’s Office in 2024 for assistance in securing a cleaner water supply.
During the launch, Prime Minister Rabuka commended the Burerua community for their proactive approach in seeking improvements to their local infrastructure. Delivering his message in the iTaukei language, he emphasized the importance of self-reliance and community initiative, stating that this project illustrates how individuals can take charge of their development with the support of the government.
The Water Authority of Fiji’s CEO, Seru Soderberg, confirmed that Burerua is now integrated into the Namau water supply system, which has been operational since 2020 and has the capacity to treat five million liters of water a day. This advancement not only enhances the living conditions for the villagers but also signals a commitment to expanding similar projects to improve water access for surrounding communities.
For local villager Vani Bera, the new system represents a significant relief from previous hardships. She recounts the difficulties of relying on untreated water from rural sources, particularly during drought conditions when water could be scarce for weeks. Bera expressed gratitude for the assistance received, highlighting the villagers’ efforts and community spirit in pushing for cleaner water.
The launch of this project aligns with ongoing governmental efforts aimed at enhancing water accessibility across rural Fiji, paralleling initiatives in other regions such as Vusama and Navisabasaba. These projects underline a broader commitment to improve infrastructure and health outcomes throughout the nation.
As Burerua enjoys the benefits of treated water, it stands as a testament to how collaborative efforts between communities and the government can lead to positive change, ensuring a healthier future for all residents. This movement towards improved water services is a hopeful reminder of the potential for growth and development within rural Fijian communities, paving the way for enhanced quality of life and collective resilience.
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