Lifeline Water Tanks Arrive for Vaisigano 1 District

02 December 2024 – Water security has been enhanced for the villages of Asau, Auala, and Vaisala in the Vaisigano 1 district as the families there have faced low rainfall and climate variability over the years.

Last week, the German Consul in Samoa, Afoa Stefan Szegedi delivered twelve 3000-litre water tanks to families in the region known for its low average rainfall.

Funded through the German Embassy in Wellington, the initiative is a partnership between Germany and the Vaisigano 1 District Council – Fono Fa’avae, which is taking the lead of logistics, including transporting the tanks from Apia to Savai’i and covering installation costs.

“These efforts are crucial, especially as the area grapples with the effects of climate change, making it increasingly difficult to rely solely on boreholes and traditional water sources,” said Afoa Stefan Szegedi.

The German Consul in Samoa, Afoa Stefan Szegedi with Member of Parliament for Vaisigano 1, Niuava Eti Malolo with the village pastor and chiefs at the delivery of the the twelve 3000-litre water tanks for  the district last week.

The water tanks will be strategically distributed among three villages of Asau, Auala, and Vaisala. Afoa highlighted the importance of proper infrastructure, stating, “As the saying goes, ‘Water is Life’ that requires reliable access to water is vital for the community’s well-being.”

Member of Parliament for Vaisigano 1, Niuava Eti Malolo, praised the project, stating that “Water tanks can store rainwater during the wet season, ensuring a reliable supply during drier months.”

He underscored the project’s positive contribution to enhancing water security for the families and the district’s resilience against climate variability.

Niuava said the partnership not only strengthens the bond between Germany and Samoa but also provides a practical solution to one of the most pressing challenges facing the region known for low rainfall throughout the year.

With these newly installed tanks, the MP said the villages of Vaisigano 1 can look forward to improved access to clean water, fostering better health and prosperity for its residents.