FRUSTRATED by irregular rubbish collection, residents of Raiwaqa in Suva took matters into their own hands during the school holidays, clearing blocked drains and cleaning the compounds around their homes.
The community clean-up program saw parents and students working together to remove rubbish and improve sanitation in the area.
Resident Marisia Vusonilawa said residents had grown tired of repeatedly asking authorities for assistance.
“The rubbish is not collected unless we call the authorities to come and collect it, and we do that all the time,” she said.
“So during the holidays we got together and cleaned the compound and dug the drains as well because they were blocked with rubbish. When it rains, the water overflows and we have a problem in our area.”
Ms Vusonilawa said the initiative also served as an awareness program to educate residents on the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
“This is important, and we are glad that our children have joined us in this initiative because they are the future.
“When they are involved, they will ensure the compounds and especially the drains are kept clean.”
