New crossing brings smiles to Dakuniba Village

A new culvert crossing commissioned in Dakuniba Village, Cakaudrove, is bringing relief and smiles to residents who for years struggled with unsafe access during heavy rain.

The crossing was officially opened yesterday by the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, marking a major improvement for the remote and flood-prone community.

Mr Vosarogo said the project addressed a long-standing problem at the village entrance, which often became impassable during bad weather.

“For many years, this community struggled with unreliable access,” he said.
“During heavy rain, children could not get to school, produce could not reach markets, and families faced difficulties accessing transport and essential services.”

The project cost $239,901.63 and was jointly funded by the Government and the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA). The Government contributed $199,272.20 through the 2024–2025 Small Grant Scheme, while the FRA provided $40,629.43.

Mr Vosarogo said the partnership reflected the Government’s commitment to ensuring development reached rural and maritime communities.

“This project shows our priority to lift development in rural areas and improve the daily lives of ordinary Fijians,” he said.

The new crossing is expected to have an immediate impact, especially for students attending Nawi District School, Mabuco Catholic Primary School and Vatuvonu High School, who can now travel safely to and from school year-round.

Villagers will also benefit from improved access to markets, enabling farmers and fishers to transport produce more efficiently, reduce travel costs and increase income opportunities. Access to health services, public transport, shops and Government offices in Tukavesi and Savusavu has also been improved.

Mr Vosarogo said infrastructure projects were about more than concrete and steel.

“Infrastructure like this is about improving livelihoods, reducing poverty and restoring dignity,” he said.
“When communities have reliable access, young people can pursue education, families can grow their businesses, and villages become more resilient.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continued investment in rural infrastructure, including roads, bridges and crossings.

“This crossing may appear small, but its benefits are significant,” he said.
“It improves safety, strengthens community wellbeing and delivers practical solutions that make a real difference.”

The Minister thanked the Fiji Roads Authority, engineers, contractors and workers involved in the project, as well as the people of Dakuniba for their patience during construction.

“This crossing now belongs to the people of Dakuniba,” he said.
“Please look after it so it continues to serve the village for many years to come.”