Semo Village turns highway collapse into story of service and unity

Semo villagers in Nadi have risen above the setback that unfolded after part of the Queens Highway collapsed.

What could have been a story of frustration and delay has become one of unity, compassion, and unexpected blessings for Semo Village in Nadroga.

After part of the Queens Highway gave way near the village, travel between Suva, Nadi and Lautoka was disrupted, leaving passengers stranded on either side of the damaged stretch.

Instead of complaining, the young men of Semo stepped forward with wheelbarrows in hand. They began voluntarily carrying heavy suitcases across the broken section, ensuring travellers could safely board express buses waiting on the other side.

Ratu Naisa Navuma, 22, said the effort was about standing together as a united people.

“In the face of disruption, we chose service. It is important that we help one another when it matters most. That is the true spirit of vanua,” he said.

For Tony Lalevu, 24, the motivation was simple.

“We are helping the passengers to show Fijian love. We should help others and love them just as God loves us,” Mr Lalevu said.

From left: Alesi Siqa, Joana Nalivono and Ulamila Ranadi with prepared meals at Semo Village in Nadroga.

Photo: Katherine Naidu

While the young men carried loads under the hot sun, the women of Semo found opportunity amid the chaos.

Their roadside women’s committee centre transformed into a busy food stop, serving roti parcels, cooked meals, snacks and pastries to travellers forced to pause their journeys.

Villager Alesi Siqa said the disruption had brought much‑needed income.

“I’m so thankful for the work that is ongoing here in Semo,” Ms Siqa said.

“We prepare meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even afternoon tea. We thank the Government and the Fiji Roads Authority, with their contractors, for supporting our women. We are getting good sales.”

Semo Village has proven that compassion can turn crisis into community strength.