Water supply challenges in the Lomawai district of Nadroga are on the verge of resolution thanks to a landmark agreement between local landowners and the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). Reached yesterday, this agreement involves the allocation of over $1 million to the resource owners for essential water source projects benefiting six villages in the region.
Sitiveni Nawaqa, president of the Viti Indigenous Tourism Alliance, explained that the initial funding will focus on water restoration projects and the renovation of community properties. “We have requested an initial disbursement of $50,000 to complete the Werelevu project and to finalize the residence for Tui Nalolo. The remaining funds will catalyze vital water restoration initiatives across the six villages,” he stated.
Residents have been grappling with a pressing need for stable water sources, often relying on nearby rivers, purchasing water tanks, or using boreholes for their supply. “This signing marks a crucial moment for us, as it will finally tackle the persistent water shortages that our community has endured,” Nawaqa emphasized.
Furthermore, this partnership with FNPF, facilitated by Momi Bay Resorts Limited, will also focus on infrastructure improvements. Proposed enhancements include the installation of tarsealed roads and water and sewerage systems, aimed at ensuring that the local communities, particularly the vanua o Nalolo, benefit from the developments associated with Momi Bay Resort.
The six villages participating in this significant initiative—Lomawai, Tau, Kubuna, Nakorokula, Bavu, and Navutu—are on the brink of transformative change. With these developments set to unfold, the residents of Lomawai can look forward to improved living conditions and better access to essential resources, signaling a hopeful future for the community.