Residents of Cikobia Island are looking forward to significant improvements in their water supply and transportation services following a constructive tikina meeting held recently. The meeting focused on critical issues facing the island, including the current water shortages, transportation difficulties, and a community plea for government assistance to enhance living conditions.
Cikobia, which comprises four villages—Vatulele, Nautovata, Vuninuku, and Natovutovu—depends on a single water catchment for its water supply. Access to the island is exclusively by boat, making both communication and transport a challenge for the local population. District Officer Macuata, Ratu Orisi Baleitavea, announced during the meeting that a new 40-foot boat, capable of carrying up to 22 passengers and equipped with necessary navigation and communication tools, will soon be delivered to the elders of the island.
Reverend Laiakini Saula of the Methodist Church shared the community’s optimism about the new vessel, noting, “It (the boat) will make a big difference to our lives.” The introduction of the boat is set to greatly enhance the reliability of monthly grocery deliveries, improve communication by allowing residents to send letters, and facilitate easier transport for students heading to larger islands like Viti Levu or Vanua Levu during school breaks. Moreover, it will enable more active community participation in religious activities across the district.
The construction of the boat, which took five months, amounted to $70,000. The community contributed a deposit of $4,500, while additional funding was sourced from the Methodist Church and the Ministry of Regional Development.
In addition to transportation solutions, Ratu Orisi confirmed the government’s commitment to upgrading the island’s water supply system, which currently struggles due to its reliance on one catchment. He also highlighted the necessity for improved housing on the island, which has not kept pace with development. A rural housing initiative, aimed at assisting residents through self-help and small-grant programs, is also being implemented.
This collaboration between the community and the government represents a positive step towards a brighter future for Cikobia, enhancing the living standards and connectivity for its residents. The engagement seen in these initiatives fosters hope for a thriving and well-connected island community.