Life has been made easier for the villagers of Dakuniba in Cakaudrove following the commissioning of their culvert foot crossing yesterday.
The Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Hon. Filimoni Vosarogo commissioned the project on behalf of the Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.
With a total project cost of $239,901.63, the Office of the Prime Minister funded $199,272.20 through the 2024–2025 Development Grant Scheme, with an additional $40,629.43 contributed by the Fiji Roads Authority.
Dakuniba is a remote community located in a low-lying and flood-prone area.
For many years, access into and out of the village has been difficult, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
The creek at the village entrance frequently floods, making it unsafe for both vehicles and pedestrians to cross.
This situation has long affected school children, farmers, fishers, families, and visitors.
During bad weather, children struggled to get to school, farm produce could not reach markets, and families faced challenges accessing transport and essential services.
The benefits of this project will be felt immediately.
School children attending Nawi District School, Mabuco Catholic Primary School, and Vatuvonu High School will now enjoy safer and more reliable access to education.
Parents can be assured that, even during rainy conditions, their children will be able to travel to school with greater safety and confidence.
The new crossing will also make it easier for villagers to transport farm produce, fish, and other goods to nearby markets. Improved access will reduce travel time, lower transport costs, and enhance income-earning opportunities.
In addition, villagers will now have better access to health services, shops, public transport, and government offices in Tukavesi and Savusavu.
Minister Vosarogo highlighted that this partnership demonstrates the Coalition Government’s strong commitment to investing in rural and maritime communities, ensuring development reaches every part of Fiji.
He added that this project is a direct outcome of the Government’s priority to lift development in rural areas.
