The newly commissioned Water and Sanitation Hygiene (WASH) facility at the Nayavuira Nursing Station in Ra marks a pivotal development for the villages of Nasau, Naivuniivi, and Veidrala, providing them with much-needed medical assistance. The Health Minister, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, emphasized the necessity of high-quality healthcare facilities in rural communities during the event held on Wednesday.
With funding from the government of Korea exceeding $1 million (approximately $F2.25 million), the project will enhance nine WASH facilities within the province of Ra. Dr. Lalabalavu expressed gratitude for this support, adding that UNICEF would oversee the project while urging local communities to take responsibility for the upkeep of the facilities.
Korean Ambassador Jin Hyung Kim highlighted the anticipated positive impact of the project on the health of Nayavuira villagers, enabling access to clean water, safe sanitation, and improved healthcare services. He noted the close ties between Fiji and Korea, reinforced over 54 years of diplomatic relations, and mentioned that Korea is investing $72 million (approximately $F161 million) in various development cooperation projects in Fiji.
UNICEF representative Jonathan Veitch pointed out that these upgrades would restore water supply, increase storage capacity, and provide separate sanitation facilities for women, men, and people living with disabilities. He emphasized that families would no longer need to endure long journeys for basic medical care, as essential services will now be readily available in their community. This initiative will create a safer environment for mothers during childbirth and ensure that children receive vaccinations and treatment in hygienic conditions.
The improvements echo ongoing efforts across Fiji to enhance healthcare infrastructure and access, reflecting a commitment to the health and well-being of its citizens. As more projects come to fruition, the hopeful prospect of healthier communities emerges, poised to experience better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.
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