Members of Yasawa Village are cleaning and relying on a water source dug in 1980 as prolonged dry weather leaves household water tanks and nearby creeks dry.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Viliame Misianini says families are using the old water source for bathing, washing clothes and cleaning dishes as they struggle with the ongoing water shortage.
Misianini says the water source was dug in 1980 by a teacher from Yasawa known as Mr Sakaraia and has never dried up, even during previous periods of prolonged dry weather.
He says although the source has not been used regularly for many years, villagers turn to it whenever they experience severe water shortages.
Misianini says young men and other members of the community are now working together to clean the water source so families can continue using it.
He says villagers have also built thatched bathing shelters near the water source to provide privacy and make it easier for women to bathe and carry out their daily washing.
Insert: Misianini on old watersource. 10th Nov, 2026
Misianini says the situation is particularly difficult for women who need water for washing clothes, dishes and other household activities.
He says the water tanks and nearby creeks have dried up, leaving families dependent on the old water source and occasional rainfall.
Misianini says even a little rain provides some relief, allowing families to collect rainwater for drinking.
Despite the challenges, he says villagers remain united and are doing whatever they can to support one another through the water shortage.
Meanwhile, Misianini says government water assistance has already been delivered to Yasawa Island on two occasions, but Yasawa Village has yet to receive a delivery.
He says the villagers have been informed that water assistance is expected to reach them this week.
Misianini says villagers have already cleaned and prepared their water tanks in anticipation of the delivery.
He says families remain hopeful that the assistance will arrive as expected and provide much-needed relief from the prolonged dry conditions.
