Families in Savaii will receive new 3000-litre water tanks thanks to the German Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand.

With the help of the German Consuls Office in Samoa, they have donated 12 water tanks to the district of Vaisigano 1 in Savaii. 

 According to German Consul to Samoa, Afoa Stefan Szegedi this is part of a project between Germany and the Vaisigano district council. 

"The German Embassy in Wellington provided the 12 water tanks, while the Fono Faavae Vaisigano 1 provided the transportation from Apia to Savaii and the installation costs of these water tanks in the respective villages," he said.

The water tanks are to be distributed amongst the villages of Asau, Auala, and Vaisala.

"The villages of Asau, Auala, and Vaisala are in an area which has the lowest average rainfall in Samoa. As the saying goes, "Water is life, it is vital that the correct infrastructure is in place to ensure the people in these villages continue to have access to water," said Afoa.

The Member of Parliament for Vaisigano 1, Niuava Eti Malolo explained how the water tanks will benefit his district, especially during the dry season of the year.

"Water tanks can store rainwater during the wet season, ensuring that there is a reliable water supply during drier months. This reduces dependence on boreholes and helps mitigate the effects of climate variability," he said. 

"Investing in water tanks can significantly enhance water security in Vaisigano 1 district, providing a practical solution to the challenges posed by climate change and geological conditions."