Women drive water supply project

Story by GABRIEL LAHOC
MORE than 60 years after World War 2 destroyed fresh water sources in Salamaua, Laugui women have restored them.
The women have been praised for driving the successful water supply project in Laugui and Salamaua station which was officially commissioned last Tuesday.
The water supply project is new and unique in the country as it is built as a set – with each set comprising three taps for shower, drinking and laundry.
The programme was managed by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency of Papua New Guinea assisted by the Huon Gulf joint district planning and budget priority committee, residents of Salamaua and locals.
Laugui women had for decades labored to collect fresh water far from the village and station.
They then decided to do something about it.
Led by Maria Tomadu, they raised funds and approached the PNG agency and district for assistance.
Funds were made available by European Union and ADRA commenced work in August 2010.
The community developed new skills during the construction of the gravity-fed system because of low cost and maintenance.
Health training on hygiene and sanitation, leadership, basic bookkeeping and HIV/AIDS awareness was conducted which the community members embraced.
Salamaua LLG president Joshua Haggai thanked the women of Laugui for driving the initiative.