Close to 600 houses in Kadavu were damaged in the two recent Tropical Cyclones, Yasa and Ana.

Through a rehabilitation programme called the Pine Salvaging Programme, landowners  with the Government used  felled pine trees to help rebuild  homes.

At the moment, Kadavu has 11 Pine schemes, says Roko Tui Kadavu Kitione Raibevu.

“We are fortunate in Kadavu that none of these pine farms are leased; they’re are owned by landowners.

“In that way, the processes involved arent time wasting, where rebuilding is concerned.”

Mr Raibevu said the landowners kindly donated the felled pines and the Government provided the equipment and machinery needed to help the rehabilitation process.

The Government also provides treatment of timber – from raw to sawmill standard.

Landowners and villagers volunteered labour services, with proper training provided from the Ministry of Forestry.

Completely treated pine schemes are from Nasegai, Yawe, Tavuki and Sanima and the rest are yet to follow.

Tiliva has reported to have rebuilt 10 new homes.

There is a separate treatment scheme on Ono Island.

The biggest challenge is transporting the timber to these villages.

Feedback:  susana.tuilau@fijisun.com.fj