THE Kanakana Village yaqona farm project has so far funded renovation and extension work of the hall and evacuation centre.
Project leader Alosio Tikoinavatu said they had used about $80,000 so far on the renovated hall.
“We have asked for assistance from stakeholders and the State and we are still waiting for their response,” he said.
“But we are not discouraged by the delayed response and we have worked on the hall ourselves.
“The villagers have decided to be self-reliant and have a self-help attitude so we can get things done. Otherwise, we will keep waiting so always remain positive.”
Mr Tikoinavatu said the yaqona farm had financially supported projects in the village.
“We uprooted some yaqona plants, sold it at the market and paid for the hall renovation and extended the room as well,” he said. “This village farm has helped out in many ways and funded projects that have benefited the villagers. “The hall also serves as an evacuation centre for villagers and has played a vital role in protecting villagers during cyclone weather.
“This upgrading works include electrical wiring of the hall, fans and a generator as well. We have also bought other machines to use in renovating our hall.”
Mr Tikoinavatu said the villagers’ unity had resulted in successful projects over the past years.
