WASH Project in Naqali Village, Naitasiri, Fiji.

The people of Naqali Village in Naitasiri—home to about 70 households and nearly 500 residents—struggled with unreliable access to clean water. Despite previous interventions from NGOs and government agencies, the community continued to face daily challenges, with many families living without running water, showers, or flush toilets for over 20 years.

In early 2021, Caritas Fiji was notified of the situation. With the generous support of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and funding from USAID, a project was launched to upgrade Naqali’s water system—from the mountain catchment, through a booster tank and reservoir, right into individual homes.

Overcoming Challenges

The task was far from easy. The water source lies nearly 3.5 kilometres away in ruggedmountain terrain, making construction both physically demanding and technically complex. Before work began, Caritas Fiji engaged in community consultations, respecting local protocols and traditions. A detailed technical survey was followed to determine the scope, materials, and costs required.

Building Together

Work commenced in May 2021. Over the course of seven weeks, a dedicated four-member Caritas Fiji team worked side by side with the people of Naqali. Days stretched long, and at times, the team and villagers laboured late into the night to ensure progress

A Moment of Joy

The effort paid off. With the combined strength of Caritas Fiji, the Naqali community, CRS, and USAID, water finally flowed into the village. For the first time in decades, families could enjoy the dignity of running taps, showers, and flush toilets in their homes.

The joy was palpable—especially among women and children, who bore the brunt of water scarcity for years. The project was more than an infrastructure upgrade; it was a transformation of daily life, restoring hope and dignity to a resilient community.

 This WASH project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities, NGOs, and international partners work hand in hand. Naqali Village now has the water it deserves—and a brighter future ahead.