Walking to the river to fetch water for family use will soon be a thing of the past for the villagers of Burerua in Sawakasa, Tailevu, following the commissioning of the Burerua Village Water Project by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The project ensures that 80 families have access to safe and clean drinking water.
It was implemented by the Water Authority of Fiji’s engineering team and co-financed by the Office of the Prime Minister and the villagers of Burerua.
The village contributed $15,700 towards the total project cost of $37,493.50.
Burerua Women’s Group member Miriama Masitabua described the moment as life-changing.
She recalled years of walking to the river, even when it was unsafe, to fetch water for her family.
She says this is a blessing and that seeing water flowing in their homes is something they had only dreamed of.
While commissioning the project, Rabuka says the Burerua Water Project marks a milestone that brings dignity, health and renewed hope to families.
He congratulated the community, emphasizing that this achievement reflects the power of partnership.
He adds that when the government and communities work together, real change is created, and this project is proof of that.
Water Authority of Fiji CEO Seru Soderberg highlighted that the project aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring every Fijian has access to clean water.
He says this commissioning is a testament to their mission, adding that safe water means healthier families and stronger communities.
He also assured villagers that more communities under similar projects will soon enjoy the same transformation.
