The residents of Koro are presented with a new chance to tackle developmental and essential issues affecting their community. This opportunity arose when Justice Minister Siromi Turaga led a delegation of 40 officials to the island last week, marking the largest ministerial visit Koro has ever experienced. It provided islanders with the chance to directly discuss their concerns with Cabinet ministers.
During a consultation session, villagers highlighted the poor state of the island’s roads, alongside a pressing need for vehicle repair services. District officer Salanieta Baleigau described the current road conditions as unacceptable, noting that vehicles frequently require maintenance. In response, the Ministry of Maritime and Rural Development plans to establish the Naunu Tyre Centre project this financial year to address vehicle repair needs on the island.
Baleigau commented on the extensive costs incurred when transporting vehicles to the mainland for repairs, which can reach between $500 and $600 one way. She indicated that this project is critical to serve the over 30 vehicles on Koro.
Furthermore, the Fiji Roads Authority has allocated around $2.1 million this financial year for the maintenance of crossings at Namacu, Nabuna, Mudu, and Sinuvaca. Baleigau emphasized that road issues have persisted for a long time without adequate attention.
The community also expressed concerns regarding the limited number of government vehicles available to support operations on the island. Baleigau pointed out the shortage of manpower, equipment, and vehicles required for various government sectors, including agriculture, health, and police, with only four vehicles shared among these departments.
In the healthcare sector, Koro has three facilities, but staffing issues remain. The Nacamaki Nursing Station currently does not have a replacement staff member, while the Nabasovi station was without a nurse for three months before filling the vacancy earlier this year.
On an educational note, Koro High School’s Year 12 and Year 13 students performed well in last year’s national examinations, achieving pass rates of 70% and 93%, respectively. This year, the school aims for an 80% pass rate for Year 12 and a 100% pass rate for Year 13.
Additionally, the ongoing construction of a school chapel is being supported by former students and parents. However, the school continues to face challenges regarding insufficient playground space and teachers’ accommodations, necessitating refurbishment and funding assistance.
The construction of a new jetty at Nabuna Bay is under consideration to alleviate berthing issues, and plans for a five-star hotel are underway, which is expected to significantly enhance local economic activity and job prospects. A proposed Koro Ice Plant and Fisheries Station is also set for development this financial year, located between Tavua and Nabasovi Village.