Women in Burerua in Tailevu and surrounding villages have joined forces with Government to secure access to clean water, contributing one-third of the funding needed to establish a water system that is helping address previous water shortages and improve hygiene.
Former Water Authority of Fiji staff member Vani Bera says the Prime Minister's Office provided two-thirds of the funding, while women from two villages raised the remaining one-third to ensure the old reservoir water system could operate smoothly.
Bera, who is originally from Nadogo in Macuata and now lives in Burerua, Sawakasa, says the improved water supply has made a significant difference, particularly for women who prepare and sell food in Korovou town.
She says residents previously relied on an old reservoir and traditional water sources established by their elders, which would often dry up during prolonged dry weather.
Bera says the water shortages made it difficult for families to access clean water and also affected women selling food, as they needed reliable supplies for food preparation and hygiene.
She says she eventually raised the issue directly with the Prime Minister, who agreed to support two-thirds of the cost of improving the water system, with the women agreeing to contribute the remaining amount.
Bera says Korovou, Burerua and Veinuqa are currently fortunate to have access to drinking and clean water through pipes connected to the Namau water source.
She says she has also spoken to the Water Authority CEO, who informed her that the Namau water catchment is currently flowing well.
