Ro Naulu Mataitini, the chief of Rewa, is encouraging the residents of the province to adopt a new mindset towards development. He asserts that the expectation of government funding prior to taking any action should be replaced by a results-driven approach. His remarks come as Rewa prepares to implement a poverty alleviation initiative in collaboration with the Great Council of Chiefs.
In a conversation with The Fiji Times, Mataitini expressed his desire for Rewans to understand that financial resources will come as a result of their hard work and efforts. He noted, “I want us Rewans to see that money is going to come at the end. That work needs to be put in before money will appear.” This turnaround in thought processes aims to combat the prevailing viewpoint among some local leaders who argue for upfront aid.
Mataitini stated that the continued reliance on government assistance has stunted economic growth in the province, which still faces poverty issues 55 years post-independence. He believes the province must engage in internal discussions to foster a collective agreement on how to revitalize their development approach.
These sentiments are echoed in ongoing discussions within Fiji’s leadership circles, as illustrated by Ro Teimumu Kepa, who previously advocated for bolstering local enterprises and moving away from reliance on foreign investment. This desire for economic self-sufficiency among local chiefs has gained traction, and the call for increased local investment continues to resonate widely.
Community leaders emphasize the importance of active participation from local populations to foster sustainable growth. By shifting the focus onto self-reliance and entrepreneurial initiatives, there is an optimistic outlook that Fiji’s development can forge a path toward greater prosperity for its communities.
The call to action from Mataitini and other leaders highlights a broader movement towards empowerment and economic independence, offering hope for meaningful changes that could uplift not just Rewa but other provinces in Fiji as well.
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