61-year-old, Mosese Mataika of Wainibuabua in Wainadoi, is thankful to the Government for the Riverbank Protection works inWainibuabua that was commissioned by the Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment, Dr. Mahendra Reddy.
Mataika says this has been an ongoing issue in the community and every time it rains they do not sleep well because they are next to the riverbank.
He says when the river overflows it not only affects them but also affects their agricultural land, communities and school children.
Dr. Reddy says this riverbank protection works will protect the community of Wainadoi and they will also be going to other communities and villagers around Fiji to protect and enhance their livelihoods especially in the rural and maritime areas.
He says if we do not react now, villagers and the communities will end up losing their place of existence due to riverbank erosion.
He adds the Prime Minister is in New York to convince leaders of the developed countries that they need to assist and mitigate the effects of climate change on small developing countries.
$128,554 will be used by the Ministry of Waterways and Environment under the Drainage and Flood Protection Program to construct 68 meters long gabion box retaining wall with a two meter height and includes the planting of Vetiver grass along the bank in 150 days.
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