Canteen savings help mother build first home

Nemai Nokelala saved $8,000 by operating a canteen business. This enabled her to access the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s Rural Housing Assistance (RHA) Programme grant to build her first house.

The mother of five of Vunisea Village, Macuata was assisted under Scheme Two where she was required to pay one third and Government covered the remaining two-thirds of the total cost of the project.

The hand-over of her home was done by the Minister of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka on Monday, August 11, 2025.

“I've been operating a small canteen in the village for ten years and even though I don’t earn enough, I saved money because I always wanted to give a proper shelter for my children,” Ms Nokelala said.

“I constantly encourage myself by saying that I can do anything through Christ who strengthens. Here I am today standing as a living testimony.”

She encouraged people to work hard and get a house of their own.

Her husband, a seasonal worker overseas is now planning to extend the house to cater for all their children’s needs.

Mr Ditoka commended Ms Nokelala for her determination, saying her story is an inspiration to many.

“Homeownership is a dream for many and Ms Nokelala’s journey shows that with discipline, planning and Government support, it is possible,” Mr Ditoka said.

“Our ministry is committed to ensuring more rural families have access to safe, resilient, and affordable housing.