In Vatutavui village, located along the Kings Highway at the Ba-Tavua border, approximately 100 households have gained a reliable source of electricity, which is crucial for the operation of their borehole. This village, home to about 568 residents, previously depended on the main electricity grid to pump water from the borehole to a reservoir. However, they faced challenges such as frequent power outages, pump malfunctions, and unpaid electricity bills, which often forced locals to seek water from neighboring areas.
To address this issue, the Indigenous Food System Solution Lab pilot project, supported by PAWANKA, has financed the installation of a solar pump system. This development ensures that the community now has constant access to clean water, significantly improving their living conditions. Melaia Salacakau, the Program Manager for the Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises & Development (FRIEND), highlighted that this innovative project not only meets immediate water supply needs but also aligns with the village’s long-term sustainability objectives.
Additionally, the introduction of solar streetlights has further enhanced safety and mobility, especially during natural disasters, contributing to the overall resilience of the village.
This project symbolizes a positive step towards sustainable development, creating a foundation for better quality of life and environmental conservation in the region. The integration of renewable energy resources not only secures essential services like water supply but also promotes community resilience against future challenges.
Such initiatives reflect the potential for transformative change in rural communities, paving the way for improved infrastructure and greater self-sufficiency.
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