NEW ACCESS ROAD BRINGS RELIEF FOR VILLAGES ON KORO ISLAND

14th August, 2025

Access to reliable roads and essential services plays a vital role in improving people’s quality of life, and recent infrastructure developments are bringing new hope to Fiji’s maritime communities.

On Koro Island, the construction of a new two-kilometre access road is set to deliver similar benefits to the residents of Nacamaki, Nabuna, and Vatulele villages. Once completed, the road will provide a faster, more direct route, benefitting over 100 households.

The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), through its ongoing rural and maritime road development programs, is making steady progress on this shortcut road, which will significantly reduce travel time and costs for the three villages.

Turaga-ni-Koro of Nacamaki Village, Venasio Seru, said the new access road is a major boost for the community, especially local farmers.

“This road will bring a lot of relief to farmers who will use it daily to reach their farms and transport goods to markets,” he said.

“Previously, we had to take a much longer route, which meant extra travel time and higher costs when hiring carriers. Now, with this shortcut, it will be easier and more affordable to move crops such as dalo, cassava, kava, and yams to market. We are truly thankful,” he added.

Zone nurse Ateca Diveikulukulu, based at the Koro Health Center, highlighted the road’s importance for healthcare.

“The new road has made travel faster, which is crucial during emergencies,” she said. “Patients can now reach hospitals or nursing stations on time, and villagers will have better access to the nursing stations without having to travel all the way to the Koro Health Center,” she said.

The road is also expected to lower transport costs for villagers. Turaga-ni-Koro of Vatulele Village, Tomasi Sukanaivalu, welcomed the change, saying it would benefit daily commuters, farmers, and students.

“Before, a trip could cost us around $15.00. Now, with the shorter distance, we expect to pay closer to $10.00 and that’s great news for everyone,” he said.

The FRA remains committed to providing essential road infrastructure to urban, rural, and maritime areas.

This latest project on Koro Island is not just a road—it is a lifeline that will strengthen livelihoods, improve access to services, and bring lasting benefits to the people.