Family laments death of mother
Amena V Yauvoli, Suva
The woman in the story (Makereta Marama) is my Mom’s elder sister and someone whom I knew very well since I was a toddler.
As shared by many cousins and relatives (Isoa Kata and many others in the social media) who were touched by her exuberant 70 years of life at our home island in Koro, Nana Ma had always brought laughter and joy in our midst.
Growing up in a family of five girls and one boy in Naqaidamu Village (Koro Island), they were a very closely knitted family.
All of the five girls got married in Koro Island- two in Mudu Village, one in Namacu, one in Sinuvaca (Na Ma), and one in Nasau (my mother). Their only brother (Momo Vatimi Batirerega) died at a very young age at sea in Levuka in the late 1960s bitten by a shark. My mother (Dikove Yauvoli) is the only surviving sibling.
I shared this story to relate the wrath of Tropical Cyclone Winston that did not spare the destruction of my home village of Nasau (and other villages in our beautiful Koro Island) but also the manner in which innocent lives were taken ruthlessly and unexpectedly.
The massive havoc in Koro Island is a stark reminder to us on the importance of effective preparations, advocacy, education and understanding of the adverse impacts of Climate Change causing increased frequencies and intensities of cyclones, and to take heed of cyclone warnings and prepare well in advance once provided by the Government (Met Office, etc).
I am confident that we in Government will certainly step up on this aspect in our Post-Disaster Analysis for the future.
Nana Ma you have left behind a legacy of humility, stewardship, and dedications demonstrating your devotions to your family, vanua o Nawerelevu, lotu kei na matanitu.
May you rest in peace dear Na Ma in Christ Jesus’ Loving Arms and shall visit your grave once I set foot back in Koro soon.
Ignorant critic
Navindra Dass, Nadi
Peni Qalodamu asked (Fiji Times) “where are China and India?” in respect of relief aid for Fiji following Tropical Cyclone Winston.
My dear sir, both countries were one of the first to offer assistance to Fiji.
China has extended FJ$ 213,675 with additional help in humanitarian and reconstruction aid.
India had extended immediate financial aid of USD 1 million (about FJD 2.1 million) along with medicines, food, tents and transportation to deliver materials.
The question I now pose to Mr Qalodamu is, “which side of your shell of ignorance did you crawl out of?”
Please don’t ridicule our international partners before doing a bit of research first. Your letter is a cruel slap on the face of those who are trying hard to assist Fiji from thousands of miles away while people like you sit comfortably in Suva and shamelessly pen criticisms.
My prayers and full appreciation to all those who are doing whatever they can to bring relief to my fellow citizens.
You are all true heroes who don’t work for praise but simply because of the kind hearts you are blessed with.
To China and India, please ignore few short-sighted Fijians and know that all true patriotic Fijians value and thank you for your assistance.
To all our local and international relief/aid providers, may God bless you. Please accept a very big Vinaka Vakalevu from the people of Fiji. Well done, Champions.
Our strength
Neelz Singh, Lami
We have survived the tough Tropical Cyclone Winston and as people we will unite, stand and support, in time of need for our community or nation.
Have patience fellow brothers and sisters this is the time our strength is tested.
RIP Sivo
Ala Naqiri, Nadi Airport
One of the most infamous writer of this column for more than ten years also lost his life during Tropical Cyclone Winston’s wrath.
He is Osea Sivo Naisau, Nailaga, Ba.
Rest in peace brother Sivo, we will surely miss your inspiring letters.