The Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, took the initiative to visit villages in Vanua Levu on Christmas Eve, a move that underscores his commitment to supporting local communities. During his visit, he presented Income Generating Project (IGP) grants aimed at fostering youth development and sports engagement.
One notable stop was at Nailou Village, where Mr. Saukuru met with the Nailou Youth Club, a 25-member group that recently received a $5,000 grant for beekeeping. This grant included essential beekeeping equipment, such as double honey boxes, honey farming tools, and safety gear, which will enable the club to establish a sustainable income source. Additionally, he provided sports equipment for volleyball, netball, rugby, and beach volleyball, highlighting a dual focus on economic and physical development for the youth.
Mr. Saukuru expressed that the visit exemplified the ministry’s dedication to empowering young people, stating, “By delivering resources that support sustainable livelihoods and promote physical activity, the ministry ensures that no youth is left behind.” This sentiment reflects a broader goal of reaching even the most remote communities.
Following his engagement in Nailou, he visited the Sawani Youth Club, where he delivered a solar-powered freezer to aid in sustainable income generation, along with various sports items. His efforts extend to enhancing both livelihoods and sporting opportunities for rural youth, reinforcing the notion of building self-reliant communities.
In a further outreach, Mr. Saukuru visited young farmer Anasa Kaitoa from Naruwai Village, who secured an IGP grant to improve his farming operations. The grant will provide him with crucial equipment, including sprinklers and a water tank, enabling him to enhance his diverse crop production that benefits both his household and the local community.
Through these visits and the resources provided, Mr. Saukuru’s actions emphasize a hopeful commitment to empowering youth in Fiji, ultimately fostering resilience and community development across the nation. The support given to rural communities signifies a promising step toward sustainable development and engagement among the youth in these areas.

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