ABOUT 53,000 people in the Nadroga Navosa province are expected to benefit from the new Sigatoka Hospital mortuary built through funds raised by the region’s Australia-based diaspora.
Nadroga Navosa Australian Community (NNAC) representative Tukini Tavui said the $130,000 project highlighted the significant difference the Fijian diaspora could make for their provinces.
“The opening of the mortuary is a fitting demonstration of the spirit upon which the community was founded people living far from home remaining connected to their roots and working collectively to make a practical difference,” Mr Tavui said.
“The project demonstrates the important contribution that Fijians living abroad can make to development in their home provinces through organised community partnerships, fundraising and collaboration with institutions in Fiji.”
During the opening, Health and Medical Services Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said for a long time Sigatoka residents had to travel to Suva or Lautoka to access the vital services.
“The old mortuary facility served us well with its nine berths, but as our community grew, we needed something better. This project was born to give our families the dignity, comfort, and peace they deserve, right here close to home.”
Dr Lalabalavu confirmed the ministry contributed $20,000 for electrical and engineering work.
The new facility features 18 berths, two fully equipped bathing bays, a dedicated viewing area and a chapel.
