The residents of Vunaniu in Serua celebrated the arrival of four 10,000-litre water tanks last week. This initiative was funded by the Canada Fund and provided to the Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA) Network Fiji, significantly improving the water accessibility for villagers previously reliant on a nearby creek.
Inoke Tuiwanunu, the LMMA program director, explained that this project is part of the Vanua Sautu program, which delivers support to the village in several areas, including the installation of water tanks, a greenhouse nursery, the planting of about 2,000 mangrove plants, and around 1,000 native trees.
According to Mr. Tuiwanunu, Vunaniu Village was the first to receive support under this program after the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted, “The donation made is aimed at helping the villagers address their water challenges during adverse weather conditions.” Villagers typically walk approximately 300 meters to the nearest creek for washing, so the new tanks are designed to hold up to 40,000 litres, ensuring a sustainable water supply even if the reservoir becomes compromised.
In addition to enhancing water access, the organization plans to provide financial literacy training for the villagers. “Our focus extends beyond just resource conservation; we are also committed to economic empowerment,” Mr. Tuiwanunu added.