Crossing flooded rivers and rugged highlands to reach essential services such as clinics, schools, and markets, will be a thing of the past for people of Nasava in the interior of Naitasiri following the opening of the first four kilometres of the Wainimakutu–Nasava Road Project.
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Banivalu says for generations, the people of Nasava endured long and difficult journeys across flooded rivers and rugged highlands to reach clinics, schools, and markets.
Banivalu says the project is a milestone achievement, milestone marking real progress for the highland communities of Namosi.
She adds that for the first time ever, the sound of a bulldozer broke through the untouched forest of the Wainimala highlands, symbolising a new beginning for the people of Nasava.
Banivalu says the 15-kilometre road project, valued at approximately $600,000, is being developed through a Free Issue Licence from the iTaukei Land Trust Board.
She highlights that the Vanua o Naleya have made a remarkable contribution to the project, donating their own timber to support construction efforts.
She adds that this act of generosity showcases true community ownership and leadership in local development.
The Minister says the project is being implemented by the Ministry of Forestry, in partnership with Southern Forest Logging Company, and supported by several government agencies including the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Lands, Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, Public Works Department, and the Ministry of Regional and Provincial Development through the Commissioner Central and Provincial Administrator Namosi.
Banivalu further says the initiative demonstrates what can be achieved when government, the private sector, and communities work together.
She says this road opens doors for the people of Nasava to education, healthcare, markets, and opportunities they have long been denied.
She continues that once completed, the road will make it possible for vehicles to reach Nasava Village for the first time in history.
She adds that children will travel to school safely, mothers will access health services more easily, and farmers will be able to bring their produce to market efficiently.
The Minister reaffirms her commitment to completing the project in partnership with the Vanua o Naleya and Nakurukuruvakatini, calling it a dream that once seemed impossible — now becoming reality through partnership, leadership, and hope for a better Fiji.
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