Residents of the Wailailai Melanesia community on Ovalau celebrated a momentous occasion last Friday with the official inauguration of a new access road, marking a transformative development in local transportation. For over forty years, the community struggled with the burden of transporting luggage and groceries from a distance, as the absence of adequate road access made it nearly impossible for vehicles to reach their homes.
The newly constructed road is set to eliminate this long-standing hassle, making it easier for residents to travel and transport goods efficiently. Wailailai, perched at a high elevation, offers stunning views of the Ovalau waters and is populated by descendants of Melanesians of Solomon descent.
At the inauguration, Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Sakiusa Tubuna announced the investment of $22,000 from the Office of the Prime Minister to fund the new concrete road. Mr. Tubuna emphasized that this development would significantly ease the hardships faced by the Wailailai community, which have persisted for many years. He described the access road as a beacon of hope that reflects the community’s strength and determination.
Mr. Tubuna commended the residents for their unity in completing this project and encouraged other villages and communities to follow their example. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the old road, which had prevented public service providers from reaching the area effectively. The community has endured years of carrying groceries and supplies uphill, but with the new road, those challenges are now in the past.
“This is your Government,” Mr. Tubuna remarked, assuring that it will continue to strive to assist all Fijians, regardless of their background. The joyful atmosphere at the opening is a testament to the community’s perseverance and a promising step toward a more connected and accessible future.
In summary, the new access road in Wailailai signifies not just improved transportation, but also a renewed spirit of cooperation and hope within the community. As they look towards a brighter future, the Wailailai residents can finally say goodbye to their past difficulties.
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