Over 800 people living at Tatakamotonga village now have access to clean and reliable water supply, after Japan upgraded its system.

Japan's Ambassador HE Mr Yukio Numata handed over the system today, which included two 5000 gallon water tanks, and one solar power set financed with a USD$81,827 grant under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects.

The village's old pumps generated by diesel had deteriorated.

The Ambassador said access to water is vital for life, health, sanitation, and the Japanese people and government lists it very highly on their list of aid and development priorities.

“Especially, in Tatakamotonga village, as it has been reported as an area to experience regular typhoid break outs in the past, we find great joy in being able to contribute to enabling all people of the village to have access to clean and stable water in prevention of another breakout.”

The Minister for Education Hon Penisimani Fifita thanked the people and the Government of Japan for the generous assistance.

"This is a good example of supporting quality growth, a unique feature of Japan’s approach to international development."