Villagers of Yaro in Malolo have benefitted tremendously from the recent provision of proper water infrastructure — an initiative by the Ahura Resorts Conservation Foundation — a charitable arm of the 100 per cent Fijian-owned Ahura Resorts.
As part of its commitment to lift its sustainability efforts, the local tourism stakeholder has engaged in a number of vital community projects that directly benefit indigenous resource owners of the land where their two luxury properties, Malolo Island Resort and Likuliku Lagoon, are located.
Ahura Resorts managing director Tony Whitton said it was proper to support the concept of sustainable tourism because they operated their business in a pristine and sensitive environment.
“We are a Fijian family business and are very grateful to our resource owners for allowing us to share their oceans and beaches with the world,” Mr Whitton said.
“We sit down regularly with the village elders to share how our foundation can help meet their environmental and social needs.
“Our foundation team has been busy working in the Yaro Village community and with our partners, Marine Solutions providing valuable services, a boost to the surrounding environment.”
Since the launch of the trust three years ago, it has successfully implemented and managed environmental programs across land and sea at both Malolo Island Resort, Likuliku Lagoon Resort and the private island of Mociu.
Other current community projects included the sponsorship of the Navatalesau Brigid Kindergarten in Yaro Village, proper water infrastructure in Yaro Village through support for power generation with a monthly diesel donation and continued development through the Yaro Village Infrastructure Fund.
The Ahura Group has also committed to supporting annual village clean-up through the provision of the resorts’ barge and staff.
Organised and led by the Foundation’s director of sustainability and operations Sia Rasalato, the staff of Malolo and Likuliku resorts along with members of the village community, conducted a three-day clean-up which in turn would provide for a better quality of living and safe environment for everyone.
Author: Siteri Sauvakacolo
Source: The Fiji Times
