Drugs, water shortages and water are among the key concerns raised by women across the Lami corridor during a constituency meeting.
Women from informal settlements and registered villages came together for the first time during the launch of the Lami Women’s Forum Constituency Meeting held at Studio 6, where participants discussed challenges affecting communities across the area.
A representative from the Lami District Council of Social Services, Taufaga Qoro St John, says the meeting created an opportunity for women on the ground to share issues directly impacting their families and communities.
She says one of the major issues raised was the growing problem of drugs and the impact it is having on communities.
Insert: St John on community safety 27th May 26
St John also highlighted the ongoing problem of access to clean drinking water, particularly in communities such as Bilo and nearby areas.
She says some families still do not have access to proper drinking water and despite concerns being raised previously with relevant authorities, residents are still waiting to see action.
St John says some people continue to rely on unsafe water sources, which could be contributing to health concerns within communities.
She says discussions also focused on community safety, with suggestions including improved street lighting, the installation of CCTV cameras and stronger community policing efforts.
St John says while crime cannot be completely stopped, communities can play a bigger role in reducing it by working closely with Police and strengthening grassroots networks.
She is now calling on the Government to prioritise long-standing drinking water issues and consider solutions to ease traffic challenges in the Lami area.
