Mother dreams of running water

By Nefertiti Matatia 22 April 2018, 12:00AM

For ten years, Malia Palauni has never experienced the joy of seeing tap water inside her home.

The mother of 10 from Faleasi’u lives very far in the highlands and the water supply does not reach their home.

Speaking to the Village Voice team, she says they are in need of a water tank.

“The water supply does not reach this area of Faleasiu. There are eight people who live together with us and we certainly need water,” said the 60-year-old.

“People have their own reasons of why they live in a certain area. We have lived here for many years. After my in-laws have passed away, then we moved in.”

“Despite the distance we have to walk to get to the main road to catch the bus, we are used to it,” said Malia. 

Mrs. Palauni says the cost of living is one of the main reasons people struggle.

“Our family maybe struggling but we always work and make use of the resources that are around us. Nowadays there are many farmers selling crops at the market is a major competition for us.”

“The cost of the food at the shop is costly and for a family like ours that has more than five members living together, there is no doubt we would be spending more money. We rely on our crops for eating.”

The Village Voice team met her cleaning the garden around their church compound.

“I have so many children. They all have spouses now except for my youngest daughter. Regardless of me not having a job, I still move my body and exercise.”

“It is a good feeling having children who work and we are always so involved with everything that happens in the church.” 

Only her daughter works in their family. 

“Even though my daughter works, she does not earn that much but are still trying whatever their circumstances maybe.”

By Nefertiti Matatia 22 April 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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