The residents of Koro are seizing 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 individuals to the island last week, marking the largest ministerial visit to Koro thus far. During this visit, islanders were able to voice their concerns and engage directly with Cabinet ministers.
One pressing concern brought up during discussions was the state of the island’s roads. There is an urgent need for vehicle repairs and services on Koro, as district officer Salanieta Baleigau highlighted the poor road conditions that continuously put vehicles at risk of needing repairs. To address this, the Ministry of Maritime and Rural Development plans to establish the Naunu Tyre Centre project within the financial year to assist vehicles on the island. Ms. Baleigau noted that transporting a vehicle for repairs to the mainland can cost owners between $500 and $600 one way, leading to many residents servicing their vehicles only once a year.
In addition to the pressing need for vehicle services, Ms. Baleigau mentioned that the Fiji Roads Authority has allocated around $2.1 million this fiscal year for maintaining crossings at Namacu, Nabuna, Mudu, and Sinuvaca. The ongoing issue of road quality has been overlooked for an extended period, and improvements are desperately needed.
The lack of government vehicles to support various services on the island was also discussed. Ms. Baleigau expressed that the authorities do not have sufficient manpower and resources to effectively carry out their responsibilities, which is a common issue voiced across all government sectors on Koro. There are only four vehicles available, one for each government station, making it challenging to provide adequate services when vehicles are sent for maintenance.
Healthcare services are similarly strained, as the island has three health facilities, but staffing shortages persist. The Nacamaki Nursing Station remains vacant, while the Nabasovi station was without staff for three months earlier this year. The main facility in Nasau is understaffed, operating with only one doctor and two nurses.
Education remains a priority for Koro, with Koro High School’s Year 12 and Year 13 students achieving impressive national examination pass rates of 70% and 93%. The school plans to enhance its performance further this year, aiming for an 80% pass rate for Year 12 and a 100% rate for Year 13. The ongoing chapel project at the school is a community initiative, although a lack of playground space is an ongoing concern.
Other development plans include the potential construction of the Nabuna jetty to improve berthing conditions and the establishment of a five-star hotel, which could lead to increased economic activity and job opportunities for residents. Additionally, a proposed Koro Ice Plant and Fisheries Station is set for construction to boost local industry.