Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru took the initiative to visit villages in Vanua Levu on Christmas Eve, making a positive impact by distributing Income Generating Project (IGP) grants. He specifically met with members of the Nailou Youth Club in Nailou Village, Cakaudrove, where 25 young members received a $5,000 grant for beekeeping. This support included essential beekeeping equipment such as double honey boxes filled with bees, honey-farming tools, and safety gear.
Alongside the IGP grant, Mr. Saukuru provided sports equipment for volleyball, netball, rugby, and beach volleyball, emphasizing the importance of youth development and sports engagement within these communities. “This visit reflects the ministry’s commitment to empowering young people in even the most isolated parts of Fiji,” Mr. Saukuru stated, reinforcing the idea that every youth should have access to resources that promote sustainable livelihoods and physical activity.
His journey to Nailou involved a 30-minute boat ride due to the absence of road access, symbolizing the dedication of the ministry to uplifting remote communities. Additionally, Mr. Saukuru’s visit to Sawani Village resulted in the delivery of a solar-powered freezer and further sports items, aimed at enhancing income generation and sports development among local youth.
Expanding his outreach, Mr. Saukuru met with young farmer Anasa Kaitoa from Naruwai Village, who successfully applied for the ministry’s IGP grant. Mr. Kaitoa will now receive essential farming tools to improve his agricultural practices, showcasing resilience in farming various crops like vegetables, watermelons, dalo, and yaqona, which serve both his livelihood and community needs.
Mr. Saukuru’s engagements highlight a commitment to empowering young Fijians in agriculture and rural development, ensuring they have the support necessary to overcome obstacles and succeed in their endeavors. This initiative fosters a hopeful vision for a future where communities can become self-reliant and thrive through development projects and active youth participation.
In summary, Minister Saukuru’s heartfelt visits and generous contributions exemplify how targeted support can uplift rural communities by creating sustainable opportunities for growth and engagement in both sports and agriculture. This approach not only empowers individual youth but also contributes to building stronger, more resilient communities in Fiji.
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