$10, 000 to assist Fijians directly affected by Tropical Cyclone Winston

Fijian youths are to be commended for their resilience and contributions towards rehabilitation post Tropical Cyclone Winston in affected areas.

Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Iliesa Delana made the comments at the end of his visit in Ovalau.

“Most villages suffered from TC Winston and it is the young people in these villages that are logging and re-building houses and re-planting basic food items,” Mr Delana said.

“Most of them are starting from scratch as their houses and farms were destroyed.

“It is encouraging to hear stories of their resilience and collective efforts towards rebuilding their lives and their villages.”

Mr Delana commended the youths of Vatukalo, Waitovu, Vuma, Aravudi, Tavea and Rukuruku villages for their efforts towards rehabilitation.

The youths of these villages also requested for a basic training in carpentry.

“We have halted most projects to concentrate on rebuilding houses in our village,” said Vatukalo youth leader Tevita Dra.

“However, we lack the proper skills.

“We are in need of basic carpentry training or at least Government to send us skilled carpenters to provide proper guidance so we can build homes to withstand cyclones,” Mr Dra said.

District Officer Lomaiviti Inoke Koro said: “There is a real need for skilled carpenters on Ovalau Island. The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Natural Disaster Management is aware of the need and we are trying our best to address the need.”

Source: DEPTFO News

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