The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) engineers have begun constructing houses at a new relocation site for villagers of Cogea in Bua Province.

Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Inia Seruiratu visited the new site at Wainunu last Friday.

Mr Seruiratu said the engineers would build three houses first and if the people have sufficient materials then they would go up to six.

Cogea Village headman Atekini Nairibuli said the six families had been living in tents since the flood during Tropical Cyclone Yasa washed away their houses in December, 2020.

“These families are excited and looking forward to moving into their new homes before Christmas,” Mr Nairibuli said.

“Out of the 37 houses, 18 were completely destroyed by TC Yasa.”

He thanked Mr Seruiratu and Government for coming to their aid.

Mr Seruiratu said the Provincial Administrator of Bua and his team were assisting in whatever they could, particularly in the provision of materials such as sand while the RFMF was providing the expertise and carpenters.

“There is another ongoing discussion with the Fiji Council of Social Services in which a donor agency from the German Government will provide assistance,” Mr Seruiratu said.

“We are still finalising some details because it’s a foreign aid there are still some conditions to be met and we are trying to meet all those before the finalisation.”

He is hopeful to see the construction of 20 new homes.

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