Korovuli villagers now have safe water

Villagers of Korovuli in Macuata Province now have improved access to safe water following the commissioning of community water tanks on Monday.

The upgraded water supply will benefit 28 households and approximately 162 residents by enhancing water storage, hygiene, and resilience during dry periods.

Assistant Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Naisa Tuinaceva described the initiative as an important step for rural communities.

He said access to safe water should be a right for all Fijians, not a privilege.

“This commissioning is more than the installation of a water tank. It is an investment in dignity, equality, and resilience,” Mr Tuinaceva said.

The government will support the village with two additional water tanks to further strengthen water security.

The project was led by the Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development (FRIEND) and forms part of the “Improving Food Security and Sustainable Livelihoods in the Northern Division” programme, running from 2023 to 2028.

It is supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the Australian NGO Cooperation Programme and Caritas Australia.

The programme covers 44 communities across Macuata, Cakaudrove, and Bua provinces, reaching an estimated 6,000 people.

“So far, the programme has supported water infrastructure in about 20 communities, expanded solar energy access, and introduced climate-smart agriculture, disaster risk management, and livelihood training initiatives,” FRIEND said.

The Korovuli project is expected to strengthen community resilience and improve living conditions in rural areas.