In the beautiful islands of Fiji, the increased occurrence of devastating cyclones and the growing number of people unable to afford adequate and safe housing has made it necessary to provide secure, rigid and affordable homes to those who are vulnerable.

MAA International developed a plan to build Category-5 Cyclone Resistant and Earthquake Resistant Modular Housing that would not only safeguard people, but also help them re-integrate back into society in confident and independent manner. For the beneficiaries, having a safe, permanent dwelling would help improve their physical and mental health, and help them focus on building a better life by pursuing education and job opportunities.

Sarah* is a beneficiary of MAA’s Modular Homes project in Fiji. She is a 34 year old, who lived in New Zealand with her husband and two young boys up until their divorce in 2011. Back in Fiji as a single mother after the divorce, Sarah was living with her parents in an overcrowded house with more than 10 other people. Her dire situation and poor living conditions caused her to become severely depressed.

MAA’s modular home helped change Sarah’s life by making her feel safe and giving her back her independence. She is no longer reliant on anti-depressants, has started a small business, and has been raising her young boys with a renewed vigour.

Features of MAA's Modular Homes:

• Certified Category-5 Cyclone Resistant and Earthquake Resistant.

• 1 Living room, 2 bedrooms, 1 kitchen and an attached toilet, to provide more safety and protection to vulnerable women.

• A repair kit for home maintenance that includes essential tools.

This sustainable housing project demonstrates MAA’s commitment to providing a smart solution to the housing problem in Fiji.

MAA International is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).

*Name changed to protect the privacy of the beneficiary.