Habitat for Humanity Fiji (HFH Fiji), with support from the Rabi Council of Leaders, has enhanced water accessibility and quality on Rabi Island. In response to serious water shortages faced by settlements in Tiburaro, Tabwewa Meang, Seventh-day Adventist (SDA), Kesukesu, and Nadoi communities, the Council made a request in 2023.
Residents of Tiburaro were forced to travel long distances to fetch water from creeks and streams, while others in the SDA and Kesukesu and Nadoi settlements had limited access, receiving water for only one to two hours daily. These challenges made it increasingly difficult for women to care for the elderly and disabled while managing household responsibilities.
Financial constraints hindered the maintenance of existing water systems, leading to their deterioration and exposing families, particularly women and children, to the risk of waterborne diseases from contaminated sources.
In response to these issues, the New Zealand High Commission in Fiji contributed approximately $119,000 to HFH Fiji for the establishment of a new water system in Tiburaro and the renovation of four other community systems. This initiative also saw the formation of the island’s first Water Committee, which includes women and community members to ensure proper representation in decisions regarding the upkeep and operation of the water systems. Financial literacy workshops empowered these committees to manage community funds effectively.
Additionally, HFH Fiji improved water quality by providing portable bucket water filters through collaboration with another partner organization. These filters are designed to remove contaminants, making the water safe to drink. A total of 38 bucket water filters were distributed to families, while seven were allocated to the Rabi Council of Leaders for future disaster response efforts and two were given to community health centers.
The project has significantly enhanced the quality of life for the approximately 800 residents across five settlements on Rabi Island by ensuring reliable access to safe drinking water.