The Micronesian island community of Kioa in Cakaudrove has a reason to smile after a timely boost by the FIJI Water Foundation.

The foundation and the Kioa Island Council installed new water tanks to help restore water supply.

The foundation funded the supply of 24 water tanks and construction materials for water supply to a tune of $39,500.

Each tank can store 5000 litres of water.

Kioa boasts a big and vibrant community of ethnic Tuvaluans numbering more than 600.

Their ancestors first arrived in Fiji in 1947.

The islanders are governed by an elected council that manages their communal finances, implements development projects, and coordinates health and education assistance.

This council is separate from the traditional chiefs who uphold the order of the community and preserve the Tuvaluan culture and heritage.

Rain water is the main source of water on the island.

The island has a water catchment which caters for a portion of their community.

The islanders had been facing improper water supply since 1990.

In 2009, their council applied for assistance from the foundation.

The tanks were transported by boats from Taveuni to Kioa Island last week.

The council then distributed them among community members before a big celebration last week.

Foundation manager, Molly Powers traveled to Kioa to commission the tanks last week, and was treated to a full traditional welcome and feast.

Source: FIJI SUN 1 July 2010