Residents of the Wailailai Melanesia community on Ovalau recently celebrated the inauguration of a new access road, a development set to significantly enhance local transportation. For over forty years, the community struggled with the inconvenience of having to transport luggage and groceries from a distant unloading point, as there was no proper road leading to their homes.
The newly constructed access road promises to change this situation, providing easier and more efficient travel for the residents. Wailailai, situated at a high elevation boasting sweeping views of the Ovalau waters, is home to descendants of Melanesians from the Solomon Islands.
During the official commissioning event, Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Sakiusa Tubuna, announced that the government has invested $22,000 in the road construction. He emphasized that this new concrete road would resolve the accessibility challenges the community has faced for decades.
Mr. Tubuna described the access road as a beacon of hope for the Wailailai community, reflecting their resilience and determination. He commended the residents for their unity in completing this vital project, which can serve as a model for other villages and communities across the region.
Addressing the longstanding difficulties the residents endured, Mr. Tubuna noted that the lack of proper road access had hindered public service providers from reaching the area for years. He acknowledged the struggle that residents faced each day, carrying heavy loads uphill, and assured them that their cries for assistance had finally been heard.
“This is your Government, and it will strive to assist all Fijians, irrespective of gender, race, or creed,” he stated, highlighting the commitment of the government to the needs of its people.
This new road not only symbolizes physical connectivity but also a brighter future for the Wailailai community, fostering greater access to services, goods, and support. This positive step indicates a dedicated effort to improve the quality of life for residents, reinforcing the notion that perseverance and solidarity can lead to meaningful change.
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