Minister for Agriculture, Rural and Maritime Development, Environment and Waterways, Hon. Dr Mahendra Reddy commissioned a new borehole in Savalau, Nadi yesterday, which will provide clean drinking water to at least seven households of this hilly community in upper Votualevu.
The project was funded by British American Tobacco, which has opened four boreholes under its Project Aqua initiative.
Minister Reddy commended BAT, and noted that such private sector support and partnerships with the Fijian Government led to improved health and economic development.
“Whenever there’s a project that makes immediate difference to a community, I find myself privileged to be there,” he said.
The Minister noted the life-changing value of clean drinking water, which is aligned to the Fijian Government’s five-year and 20-year development plans of providing 100 per cent access to clean and safe drinking water and proper sanitation.
Members of Savalau’s community applauded the commissioning of the new borehole, which will also spur more economic development in the area.
BAT opened its pilot borehole in Sautabu Village earlier this year after extensive research and stakeholders that include the Mineral Resources Department and Water Authority of Fiji.
The project was opened by Acting Prime Minister, Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum in June, while Minister Inia Seruiratu commissioned its second borehole in Naveyago Village.
The third borehole was opened by Minister for Women, Mereseini Vuniwaqa in Vunaqoru and Koroua, Sigatoka.