Around 200 residents of Nabavatu, Macuata, are facing their fourth Christmas living in temporary tents after their original village site was deemed uninhabitable by the previous government. The community’s challenges began with a landslide caused by Tropical Cyclone Yasa in 2020, which displaced many families and forced them into makeshift shelters.
Villager Sela Tulagi expressed the community’s deep desire for permanent housing, stating, “We just want to move out of these tents.” Many residents have grown weary of their current living conditions, as the tents have become worn and torn over time. Another resident, Unaisi Tavoi, highlighted the difficulties faced during cold and windy nights, exacerbated by the dilapidated state of their shelters, which lead to sleepless nights, especially when it rains.
As the community has endured these challenging conditions, they have experienced both loss and new beginnings, with some villagers passing away and others welcoming newborns. Ms. Tavoi noted the growing sense of hopelessness among the residents as they continue to navigate the hardships of tent life. She urged the authorities to find lasting solutions to their plight.
Efforts to obtain comments from Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Sakiasi Ditoka and Commissioner North Uraia Rainima were unsuccessful.
While the situation is undoubtedly tough for the villagers of Nabavatu, their resilience shines through as they continue to hope for better living conditions and a brighter future. It is crucial for local authorities to address these urgent housing needs to restore stability and dignity to the affected families.
In summary, the community of Nabavatu has been living in tents for four years following a landslide, and the residents are calling for a permanent solution to their housing issues. Their patience and resilience stand strong as they yearn for the comforts of a true home.
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