United Nations Resident Co-ordinator for Fiji and the Pacific Sanaka Samarshina has assured villages on Cicia Island of long term solutions to problems that they face.

He was speaking to Tarukua villagers during the joint Lau mission by the UN and the Fijian Government on Tuesday.

Issues addressed by Cicia district representative Nabakanawanawa Naikavanisau, included the need of a proper evacuation centre, medical centre expansion, solar power needs and the need for a sea wall.

Mr Samarshina said: “Please understand that your challenges cannot be solved overnight, but we will work together to help you with long term solutions.

United Nations Resident Coordinator for Fiji and the Pacific Sanaka Samarasinha greets Neomai Lala, 73 at her home in Tarukua Village on Cicia Island on February 16, 2021. Photo: Inoke Rabonu

“We are here to listen to you and the challenges you are facing, not only to listen but to help you too.

“There are partners that we have come with today that have relief items and groceries for you like the Sai Prema Foundation, Fiji Disability Forum, Government Ministries and many others who will assist you, take advantage of this opportunity.”

Assistant Minister for Disaster Management Jale Sigarara told villagers that they were never forgotten in Government’s development programmes.

“We cannot solve all your issues alone as a Government, the United Nations cannot solve your problems alone, we need to work together and you as resilient islanders should do your part as well,” he said.

He assured villagers of Government’s assistance in issues that were affecting them on a daily basis.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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