Korotubu Village in Macuata Province received $30,000 worth of items from United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Pacific as part of community development, preparedness for natural disasters and resilience.

UNFPA Pacific director Iori Kato said the donation was timely and in line with the World Humanitarian Day observed on August 19.

Thanks to USAID and European Union Spotlight programme through which this assistance was made possible with the leadership and coordination of the Commissioner Northern’s office.

The villagers received five brush cutters, one freezer for fish storage, four electrical sewing machines, five tables, 12 chairs, 15 gumboot, two 44 litre drums of premix, sports gear for all types of sports, diving torches and sewing kits.

Korotubu Village headman Verinava Namunu said they felt delighted to be the first village in Fiji to receive such a donation from UNFPA.

“There are 158 villagers and 44 houses and after the Tropical Cyclone Yasa in 2020 many felt like leaving the village,” Mr Namunu said.

“People survive by diving, selling copra, brooms and crabs from the river.”

He said they were grateful to UNFPA as they would also upgrade the bakery for women’s group and develop a sports field for youths.

Mr Kato advised villagers to utilise the donation and expand it like an income generating project to empower women, men and youths.

“This island is prone to natural disasters, we are all prone to health pandemic and sometimes our access to health facilities is affected,” Mr Kato said.

“I hope you can use this equipment and kits to stay prepared, especially for emergencies.”

He said also this assistance would surely enhance the resilience against any future natural disasters.

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