The Chair of the District Council for Older Persons in Nasinu, Randhir Prasad, has urged the government to enhance funding aimed at assisting vulnerable groups living in informal settlements, specifically targeting individuals with disabilities and the elderly. This call was made during the consultation for the 2025–2026 National Budget. Prasad highlighted that numerous residents in the 51 informal settlements face challenges in accessing essential government services.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, responded by committing to incorporate more targeted financial support in the upcoming budget to tackle these issues. He emphasized the need for improved facilities for the over twenty-six vulnerable residents currently at the Valelevu Nursing Home, many of whom face significant health issues, including bedridden conditions.
In the budget proposal for 2024–2025, the government allocated $17.7 million for disability allowances, alongside funding for child protection and transport assistance. Professor Prasad acknowledged that many vulnerable individuals experience neglect, highlighting the importance of additional support for their welfare.
Moreover, discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Social Protection to identify the number of individuals requiring aged care, which will also be addressed in the forthcoming budget.
This situation reflects broader issues previously highlighted, where community efforts and volunteer initiatives are critical in providing care and support for elderly residents living in impoverished conditions, particularly in informal settlements like Muanikoso. Community health workers, such as Margaret Bennion, have been instrumental in addressing these challenges, emphasizing the insufficiency of current government allowances and advocating for further resources and community-based support systems.
The sentiment expressed during these meetings indicates a collective desire for better engagement with vulnerable populations, an essential step toward improving living conditions for seniors. Positive community initiatives show promise and represent a concerted effort to enhance the quality of life for the elderly, echoing the broader calls for increased awareness and resources to support these critical demographic groups.
Overall, the proactive approach from both government officials and community members fosters hope for a more equitable society where the needs of the elderly and vulnerable are prioritized and adequately supported.
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