With the cyclone season fast approaching, the people of Salamumu on the south west coast of Upolu are in a better position to find shelter at the worst of times.

This is thanks to the completion of the village’s Evacuation Shelter project, which was officially opened last Wednesday.

The village was a place of celebration and rejoicing when the project, costing more than $400,000, was dedicated and launched.

The project was initiated with seed funding of $49,000 from the Samoa Negotiated Partnership Programme (N.P.) being implemented by Habitat for Humanity New Zealand’s in-country partner, ADRA Samoa. The village fundraised the rest of the project cost, including in kind donations, from village families and partners.

The dedication coincided with the visit by Habitat for Humanity New Zealand’s C.E.O. Alan Thorp, the Project’s National Communications Manager, Val Hayes and Technical Manager, Tu’u’u Maeata’anoa Luamanu.

Speaking before he cut the ribbon, Mr Thorp reiterated that N.P. supports communities to increase awareness of shelter-related risks and hazards.

He congratulated the village of Salamumu for persevering in the completion of the project, adding that NP helps communities build on existing strengths, increase stability and promote self-reliance through the establishment of a safe shelter solution which benefits the whole community.

Speaking on behalf of the village, Orator and Elder, Faaso’otauloa Tito, expressed his gratitude to Habitat for Humanity and ADRA for their assistance. He also acknowledged the kind assistance from Bluebird Lumber, who allowed the village to take out an account with the hardware store in an effort to complete the project.

The village also acknowledged all their sons and daughters living all over the world who had donated to make the project a reality.