We desperately need water

By Aruna Lolani 28 June 2017, 12:00AM

Clean water is a basic necessity for survival.

Yet that is something Miti Fa’anafu of Falevao can only dream of in 2017.

It’s been two years since they moved to their new land but the water pipes do not reach their home. 

Today, the 62-year-old father would love nothing more than being able to turn on his tap.

 “Let me ask you Samoa a simple question: how can you make do without water? What would you do when you don’t have water at your own house?”

For Miti and his family, it means they have to find water.

And that means hard work and plenty of carting of buckets back and forth when it doesn’t rain.

He admits that his house is far inland.

 “For my family we moved here for a reason,” he tells the Village voice. 

“Living in the inner area of our village allows us to stay closer to our plantation. That is why my wife and I decided to move here.”

He doesn’t regret the decision until it comes to water. 

“Well at first, we requested for the water because we knew it’s very important,” he said.  

“But we were told to wait for few days. However it’s almost been two years since we moved here and nothing has been done.” 

“See the pipes are right there. They’ve been there for almost two years now. We are also the only family without a water tank. Most families on this side without taps have water tanks.”

Miti is a father of five.

“My wife and I also worry about the health of our children. When we have water we boil it to make sure it’s good to drink.” 

“My eldest son is the one fetching water for our family. Right now he is also on his way to fetch water.”

By Aruna Lolani 28 June 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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