On Christmas Eve, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru stood out as the only Member of Parliament who made the effort to visit villages in Vanua Levu, where he distributed Income Generating Project (IGP) grants. His visit included a significant meeting with the Nailou Youth Club in Nailou Village, Cakaudrove, where the club, comprised of 25 young members, received a grant of $5,000. This funding enabled them to invest in beekeeping, providing essential equipment such as four double honey boxes filled with bees, as well as necessary honey farming tools like a smoker, hive tool, and safety gear.
Mr. Saukuru’s commitment to the community was further demonstrated through the delivery of sports equipment, which included items for volleyball, netball, rugby, and beach volleyball. He emphasized that this initiative aims to foster youth development and engage young people in sports within their communities.
“This visit reflects the ministry’s commitment to empowering young people in even the most isolated parts of Fiji,” Mr. Saukuru stated, highlighting the importance of providing resources that not only support sustainable livelihoods but also promote physical activity among youth. His journey to Nailou, requiring a 30-minute boat ride due to the absence of road access, showcased the ministry’s dedication to reach out to far-flung communities.
Continuing his outreach, Mr. Saukuru next visited the Sawani Youth Club at Sawani Village, where he provided a solar-powered freezer to assist in sustainable income generation. He also delivered sports equipment aimed at encouraging physical activity and development among the village’s youth, reiterating the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that rural communities are not overlooked.
In Bua, Mr. Saukuru reached out to young farmer Anasa Kaitoa from Naruwai Village, who successfully applied for the IGP grant. With support from the grant, Mr. Kaitoa will gain vital farming equipment such as sprinklers and tanks, which will enhance his agricultural operations. His farm is known for producing a variety of vegetables and crops, showcasing resilience and contributing to local needs.
Mr. Saukuru’s visits highlight the ministry’s ongoing commitment to empowering young Fijians through agriculture and rural development. By providing them with the necessary tools and resources, the ministry aims to help youth overcome challenges and achieve success in their endeavors.
This spirit of giving and investment in the future of communities embodies a hopeful vision for rural areas in Fiji, illustrating how targeted support can lead to positive change and development among young people.
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