The residents of Tavua Village on Koro Island are finally witnessing the much-anticipated rebuilding of their church, a project that has been nearly a decade in the making since its destruction by Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016. The reconstruction efforts, backed by community contributions both locally and from villagers abroad, are estimated to cost around $190,000. Notably, five officers from the Fiji Military Forces Engineers regiment have been deployed to aid in the construction.
Work on the church began late last year with the demolition of the remaining structure, followed by plans for a new build. However, construction was briefly halted during the festive season. The rebuilding effort not only aims to restore the village’s place of worship but also includes sustainable features such as solar panels and new benches.
Village headman Nemani Buliruarua has expressed gratitude towards the military engineers for their assistance, highlighting the communal effort and commitment to restoring their spiritual home. This project reflects the resilience and unity of the Tavua community as they work together to rebuild and preserve their cultural heritage in the face of past adversities.
Similar rebuilding initiatives have been reported across Fiji, such as the relocation project for Nabavatu Village, which aims to provide stable housing for families affected by another cyclone. These efforts all underscore the broader commitment within the country to support communities in recovering from the devastation of natural disasters, illustrating a shared hope for a brighter future.
The ongoing cooperation among community members and government entities emphasizes the strength found in solidarity and resilience, showcasing how collective action can pave the way for a brighter future for communities impacted by disasters.
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