It’s hard to believe but in 2017, there are still people in Samoa living without water and electricity.

The problem is especially bad for people living inland to work on their plantations and develop land there.

Ioane Leaana, a 49-year-old single man from Faleasiu-uta, is one of them.

Speaking to the Village Voice yesterday, he urges the government to prioritise providing water and electricity for inland villages.

 “I’ve been working on my plantation for many years now,” he said.

“This is the only way that our family can earn some money. It also provides us with food for our daily sustenance.”

At the moment, Ioane and his sister live at the family’s plantation. 

“My parents passed away years ago,” he said. 

 “But one of the very common issues that we people from Faleasiu-uta have been facing for a very long time is the lack of electricity and water. 

“Therefore, it would be very helpful if the government considers giving us water and electricity. We have been struggling with this matter for a very long time.”

Ioane said he sleeps early every night because he has no electricity. 

“I use flash lights most of the time to do my chores and other duties when it gets dark,” he said. 

“In terms of water, I use my sister and her family’s water for bathing and drinking. They live in the inner village.”