Naomi Lele, from Satapuala, is patiently waiting for a proper drainage system to be constructed in her area.

During Tropical Cyclone Gita, the mother of three says flood water brought so much debris that piled up in her compound blocking the road and causing an increase in water level.

She says if drains were constructed, then there would not be much damage to her land.

“We were surrounded by water coming from all directions. There is a river further inland of the village, which overflows and affects us during any flooding. Cars were not able to drive through on Saturday and Sunday morning.” 

There were so much rubbish and tree branches everywhere.

“There was a drain which the Government was working on, but because people started littering, water flow started to be restricted and that’s why rubbish started piling up in front of my house. So maybe when the airport fence is completed, then the drainage system would be constructed,” said the 57-year-old to the Village Voice team.

Mrs. Lele mentioned Tropical Cyclone Gita brought about so much rain and strong winds, but she was thankful that nobody in her family was hurt. 

“I felt really worried because of the cyclone warning. We found out about the cyclone through the radio and television. They said it would come at 4am, but apparently it started around 1am and by the time it reached 4am it (Cyclone Gita) was so strong.”

“It was just our other Samoan house that was affected by the strong winds. The iron roofing of the house was blown away by the wind,” she added.

She says even though she does not sell her crops, she is saddened because the plantation was their only source of daily nourishment.

“There are two people working in my family, my son works at the airport while my daughter is a taxi driver and my youngest child is in Year 12. I look after the house, the children and our plantation.”

Mrs. Lele says they have cleared the rubbish from her compound to avoid any illnesses.

“Despite the power cut, our water supply is still good. We are thankful for God’s love to our family.”