For years, families in Tiburaro, Tabwewa Meang, SDA, Kesukesu, and Nadoi on Rabi Island struggled with severe water shortages. Photo: Habitat for Humanity Australia
A New Zealand government-funded project is bringing much-needed relief to residents of Rabi Island in northern Fiji, who have been facing water shortages for more than a decade.
Through the water supply project, the non-governmental organisation Habitat for Humanity Fiji worked with the Rabi Council of Leaders to install a new water system as well as upgraded the existing systems in four communities.
According to the 2017 Fiji Census, Rabi Island has a population of just over 2300 people.
Habitat for Humanity said some communities had access to water for only one to two hours a day, while others had to walk long distances to collect water from unsafe sources.
The organisation's deputy coordinator Tevita Senico told Pacific Waves that residents on the island have struggled with severe water shortages due to poor maintenance and financial difficulties.
He said the FJ$80,000 (around NZ$60,000) upgrade has improved access to water and is welcomed by the communities.
Habitat Fiji installed a new water system in Tiburaro, upgraded existing systems in four other communities, provided training on operation, maintenance, and financial literacy for the community members. Photo: Habitat for Humanity Fiji
Semico, who is from Rabi Island himself, said the management of the water supply on the island is the responsibility of the Rabi Council of Leaders.
However, he believes that the Fijian government should prioritise this need.
"Since the Rabi Council of Leaders faces [challenges with funding], it really puts pressure on [them] to look after the water system in all villages," he said.
"The reality on Rabi is quite clear in terms of the challenges with regard to management of the water supply."
Earlier this month, the Fijian government provided a new FJ$98,000 twin cab to the Rabi Council of Leaders.
In a statement, the government said the new vehicle would support the Council in its daily operations, provide accessible transportation, and assist the community during natural disasters and other important events.
"The PM (Sitiveni Rabuka) informed the Council representatives present that the government is seriously looking into the concerns and issues faced by the people of Rabi, with plans afoot to improve community living," it said.
Semico said the new vehicle "came as a surprise".
"I know there's a lot the government [has] to look at, but I feel that there is a gap in terms of [the government's] priority for Rabi."
