Teraina Residents Face Challenges Due to Extended Drought..

TERAINA, LINE ISLANDS - 9 April, 2025

Teraina, an island in the Line Group of Kiribati, is facing significant challenges due to an extended dry season that has brought prolonged drought conditions. The ongoing lack of rainfall has severely impacted both drinking water supplies and local agriculture, particularly fruit and root crops. A large number of groundwater wells on the island have also been contaminated, turning brackish and undrinkable.

Teraina is home to a freshwater canal that runs through the center of the island, which has historically been a crucial water source. However, according to the Island Project Officer, Nei Ata, many of the dug-out wells have become brackish and no longer provide potable water.

She also notes that the freshwater canal, once a reliable resource, has significantly diminished in depth, making it less accessible than before.

As a result, residents of Teraina are now forced to travel long distances to obtain fresh water. Nei Ata emphasizes that if the drought persists without rainfall, the entire island will be impacted, presenting a severe concern for the local population.