Eighteen youths of Vuma Village in Ovalau has reaped the rewards of their hard work, sacrifices and determination with the start of the construction of their new homes.
Speaking at the ground breaking ceremony of their homes, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Inia Seruiratu says the Vuma Youth Housing Scheme symbolises good leadership and teamwork.
Seruiratu highlighted the importance of strengthening the iTaukei structure to ensure the success of similar projects such as the Vuma Youth Housing Scheme.
The Vuma Youth housing scheme started in 2011 when the village elders witnessed young couples who do not have homes of their own.
The scheme allows the village youths to plant yaqona which is to be harvested after 4 to 5 years.
Money earned from selling the yaqona is used to pay for their one third contribution of $6,000 under the Governments Rural Housing programme.
Government pays $12,000 for each of the new homes.
