Prayers have been answered for Neomai Mataikorovatu of Nalele settlement in Taveuni after receiving the keys of her new home from the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, Sakiasi Ditoka.
Mataikorovatu had been living in a modest farmhouse on their farm in Welagi for over a decade, and she first learned about the Rural Housing Assistance (RHA) Programme when she visited the District Office in Taveuni to enquire about Government assistance available to the public.
Upon learning about the housing programme, she quickly submitted an application.
She explained that her husband used to farm yaqona and dalo, so they had some money saved, which helped them pay their one-third contribution after their application was approved.
She says in their old home, the roof would leak when it rains, and they had always long for the day they will have a proper shelter where they could feel safe and comforted.
The mother-of-one adds she is so grateful that God has provided this day for her family, and sincerely thanked the Government for enabling them to own a house of their own.
Her advice to other families looking to own a home is to save.
She says families need to have some money put aside, and the Government will do its part to help them, but they also need to contribute and be prepared for other related costs.
Another family that was assisted through the Rural Housing Assistance (RHA) Programme was the Steward of the Tadranisiga Methodist Church, who serves the Nalele community.
Ditoka commended the families for their initiative and commitment, saying this programme is about partnership.
He says it is encouraging to see families taking the first step by saving and contributing towards their homes.
He adds the Government will continue to support our rural communities with initiatives like the RHA Programme to ensure every Fijian has access to safe and secure housing.
