Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, addressed traditional leaders in Rewa during the opening of the Rewa Provincial Council Meeting, urging them to enhance local governance, unity, and community resilience in alignment with national development goals. He emphasized the importance of creating a Village Development Plan for each village, ensuring that all voices, including those of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and elders, are included in the planning process.
Highlighting the pressing issue of poverty in rural areas, where 62 percent of Fijians reside below the poverty line, Ditoka stressed the need for community-driven planning and investment. The government has made a significant investment of $104.7 million in Rewa from 2022 to 2025, with $36.6 million earmarked for the current financial year.
During the meeting, the Rewa Province also launched its 2025–2028 Strategic Development Plan, aiming to further enhance the region’s socio-economic landscape.
This initiative reflects a larger trend observed across Fiji, as seen in recent discussions and efforts to strengthen local governance and infrastructure planning, particularly in rural communities. By fostering inclusivity and encouraging collective action, these measures offer a pathway toward improved livelihoods and greater resilience against challenges such as natural disasters and economic hardship.
Moreover, Minister Ditoka’s call for robust local governance aligns with previous efforts across the country to address disparities in resources and services, reinforcing a commitment to uplift marginalized communities and promote sustainable development. The ongoing dialogue among leaders throughout Fiji presents a hopeful outlook for communal growth and empowerment as various sectors unite to tackle existing socio-economic challenges.
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