Water supply issues in the Lomawai district of Nadroga are set to be addressed following a significant agreement between local landowners and the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). This agreement, established yesterday, will see the release of over $1 million to the resource owners, with hopes to fund essential water source projects benefiting six villages in the area.
Sitiveni Nawaqa, president of the Viti Indigenous Tourism Alliance, noted that the initial funds will primarily target water restoration initiatives and the refurbishment of several community properties. “We have requested an initial $50,000 disbursement to complete the Werelevu project and finalize the Tui Nalolo’s residence. The remaining funds will help kickstart essential water restoration projects across the six villages,” he explained.
The urgent need for reliable water sources is palpable, as Nawaqa highlighted the challenges faced by residents, who currently rely on nearby rivers, purchase water tanks, or utilize boreholes. “This signing represents a pivotal moment for us, as it will finally address the long-standing water shortages our community has been facing,” he added.
In addition to the water projects, Nawaqa indicated that the partnership with FNPF, facilitated by Momi Bay Resorts Limited, would also encompass infrastructure developments. Among the requests are the installation of tarsealed roads and systems for water and sewerage, aimed at ensuring that the local communities, particularly the vanua o Nalolo, reap the benefits of the Momi Bay Resort’s development.
The six villages involved in this transformational initiative include Lomawai, Tau, Kubuna, Nakorokula, Bavu, and Navutu. With these developments on the horizon, the prospect of improved living conditions and better access to vital resources for the residents of Lomawai appears promising.