The Minister for i-Taukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, announced that the Review Team responsible for evaluating the i-Taukei Affairs Act is anticipated to conclude its work and present its report by the end of this month.
Vasu outlined that the primary goals of the review are to enhance economic employment opportunities for the i-Taukei community and to fortify Vanua governance. During a response to an Oral Question regarding the review’s progress, he mentioned that the team operates under the guidance of the Strategic Advisory Group (SAG).
The review is structured into five phases, with the team providing updates to the SAG at the conclusion of each phase. Vasu noted that the review team has engaged in discussions with various groups, including religious organizations, NGOs, civil society organizations, university students, i-Taukei institutions, stakeholders, women’s groups, statutory bodies, provincial councils, and the general public.
“The Review Team has consulted with a diverse range of community members. Throughout these consultations, Fijians have voiced their support for the continuation of i-Taukei administration, although there is a recognized need for a significant transformation in its operational methods,” Vasu stated. He emphasized the importance of addressing emerging issues that influence current developmental agendas.