The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) is advocating for the government to develop a national framework that enables community-led monitoring of public infrastructure projects. Executive Director Vani Catanasiga emphasizes that such a framework would empower citizens to directly oversee and report on local projects, aligning with the Fiji National Infrastructure Investment Plan 2023-2034. This call builds on past initiatives such as participatory budgeting and citizen audits aimed at enhancing accountability.
Catanasiga noted, “We think that participation in this will demonstrate, perhaps, maybe the usefulness of such an approach for government, particularly as we’re looking at efficiencies in government and meeting the needs.” She believes that this initiative not only supports infrastructure development but also promotes climate resilience, disaster recovery, and inclusive growth.
The proposal has received positive feedback, including from Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad, who welcomes increased public scrutiny of government projects. This sentiment reflects a growing recognition of the importance of transparency and community engagement in Fiji’s governance and infrastructure development.
The FCOSS’s advocacy aligns with ongoing discussions about improving governance and accountability within the country’s infrastructure sectors, as suggested by audit reports highlighting past financial mismanagement and operational inefficiencies. Historical data backs the need for structured community involvement, echoing findings that strong governance frameworks can significantly improve project implementation and effectiveness.
Catanasiga’s push for community-led oversight revitalizes hopes for collaboration between citizens and the government. By fostering an environment where local voices are prioritized, Fiji can work toward more efficient resource allocation and community resilience. This proactive approach holds the promise of creating an empowered society equipped to tackle its challenges, benefiting Fijians in the long run.
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