Mataqali Dravutu raise over $82,000 for construction of evacuation centre

It has been a meaningful Christmas and New Year for the mataqali Dravutu in the Nabua settlement, Waikete, Tailevu, after they raised $82,402.18 to support the construction of a new evacuation centre.

Project coordinator Taitusi Lomani says the initiative aims to protect families from flooding and ensure their safety during crises.

Lomani says the mataqali Dravutu in Fiji, planned the project and submitted a proposal to the Fijian Government for financial assistance.

He says during last year’s National Budget announcement, the government offered a grant of $150,000, on the condition that the community contribute one-third of the total cost.

He adds that in response, the mataqali reached out to their overseas clan members in Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom to collect the necessary funds, which were transferred directly into the mataqali's bank account.

Lomani told fijivillage News that looking forward, the mataqali plans to build a shopping mall and a service station near the evacuation centre to further support the community financially.

As construction begins in the coming months, the mataqali Dravutu’s collective effort is a testament to the power of unity in achieving ambitious goals and securing a safer future for their families.