With 98 percent of Rewa Province covered by water, flooding remains a constant threat, says Lomanikoro Village headman Robert Silatolu.
Speaking at a talanoa session in Vunuku Village yesterday as part of World Rural Development Day celebrations, Mr Silatolu painted a grim picture of life in a flood-prone region where rising water levels have brought floodwaters right to the doorsteps of the villagers’ homes.
He also highlighted the issue of mangroves and how they have not stopped or prevented flood waters throughout the years.
“When the water levels rise, the land and water become one,” Mr Silatolu said.
“We are a flood-prone area, we’ve planted mangroves many times in the hope of stopping the sea-level rise, but all they do is collect rubbish.
“They don’t solve the problem.”
Mr Sialtolu urged the authorities to provide long-term, sustainable solutions to the growing threat of flooding.
In response, Commissioner Central Josefa Navuku acknowledged the long-standing issue.
“This is not a new issue,” Mr Navuku said.
“This has been going on for many years.
“We are currently in talks with the Ministry of Waterways and other relevant authorities regarding this.”
Also present at the talanoa session was environment officer Sakenasa Ramisi who addressed the villagers and requested further details.
“Let us know when the last mangrove planting was done so we can assist further,” Mr Ramisi said.
