On Christmas Eve, Jese Saukuru, the Minister for Youth and Sports, took the initiative to visit several villages in Vanua Levu, where he distributed Income Generating Project (IGP) grants. His first stop was Nailou Village, home to the Nailou Youth Club, which consists of 25 young members. This group was awarded a grant of $5,000 to support their beekeeping endeavors, receiving essential tools such as double honey boxes filled with bees and honey farming equipment including a smoker, hive tool, and protective gear.
In addition to the grants, Mr. Saukuru provided sports equipment, including volleyball, netball, and rugby gear, emphasizing his commitment to fostering youth development and sports participation in the community. He stated, “This visit reflects the ministry’s commitment to empowering young people in even the most isolated parts of Fiji,” underscoring the importance of providing resources that promote sustainable livelihoods and physical activity.
Equipped with determination, Mr. Saukuru and his team traveled by boat for 30 minutes to reach Nailou Village due to the lack of road access, showcasing their dedication to community engagement.
His next destination was Sawani Village, where he visited the Sawani Youth Club. There, he handed over a solar-powered freezer to help the club generate sustainable income, along with further sports equipment to encourage the youth’s active involvement in sports. Again, Mr. Saukuru reiterated the ministry’s pledge to empower young people in rural and interior communities.
The Minister’s tour continued as he reached out to Anasa Kaitoa, a young farmer from Naruwai Village in Bua, who successfully received an IGP grant. Mr. Kaitoa has faced various challenges in his farming journey due to limited resources. Through this grant, he will gain access to crucial farming tools such as sprinklers, a spray tank, a water tank, and roofing iron. His hard work has allowed him to grow a range of vegetables and crops that sustain his livelihood while meeting local community needs.
Mr. Saukuru’s visits highlight the ministry’s commitment to empowering young Fijians, particularly in rural areas, ensuring they receive the support and resources needed to thrive and overcome obstacles. This initiative not only aims to uplift individuals but also strengthens community resilience, demonstrating the positive impact of investing in the youth and their development.
In summary, the Minister’s efforts are paving the way for a more empowered generation, fostering self-reliance and hope within communities that have previously faced challenges. The support provided through these grants is an encouraging step towards building a brighter future for Fiji’s youth.
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