Residents of the Wailailai Melanesia community on Ovalau celebrated the official opening of a new access road last Friday, marking a pivotal advancement in transportation for the area. For over forty years, community members struggled with the inconvenience of carrying luggage and groceries over considerable distances, as vehicles could not reach their homes due to the lack of a suitable road.
The newly constructed access road is expected to eliminate this long-standing issue, facilitating easier and more efficient travel for the residents. Wailailai, perched at a high elevation with breathtaking views of the Ovalau waters, is populated by descendants of Melanesians from the Solomon Islands.
Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Sakiusa Tubuna, officiated the $22,000 investment in the road construction, underscoring its significance for the community. He acknowledged that the new concrete access road would ease the challenges faced by Wailailai residents for decades, transforming it into a beacon of hope and a testament to their resilience.
Mr. Tubuna praised the community’s unity in completing the project and encouraged other villages to emulate their collaborative spirit. He further explained the previous struggles where poor road conditions had prevented public services from reaching the area, forcing residents to transport essentials uphill for many years.
“This is your Government and it will exhaust all its efforts to assist all Fijians regardless of gender, race, or creed,” Mr. Tubuna assured, reinforcing the commitment to meet the needs of all communities.
This development not only enhances daily life for the Wailailai Melanesia community but also reflects a broader commitment to infrastructure improvement across Fiji, potentially paving the way for further advancements in accessibility and quality of life.
Overall, the opening of the access road is a promising step forward for the Wailailai community, symbolizing perseverance and a hopeful future where connectivity can lead to further opportunities and development.
Leave a comment