Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru demonstrated a strong commitment to community development this Christmas Eve by visiting villages in Vanua Levu to distribute Income Generating Project (IGP) grants. His first stop was Nailou Village, where he engaged with the Nailou Youth Club, which received a $5,000 grant to support their beekeeping initiative. This grant included essential equipment such as double honey boxes, honey farming tools, and safety gear designed to foster sustainable livelihoods.
During his visit, Mr. Saukuru also provided sports equipment to encourage physical activity among the youth, including items for volleyball, netball, rugby, and beach volleyball. He emphasized the importance of supporting both youth and sports development in remote areas, stating that the ministry aims to empower young people throughout Fiji, ensuring no one is left behind.
The journey to Nailou required a 30-minute boat ride from the mainland, showcasing the efforts taken to reach isolated communities. After Nailou, Mr. Saukuru continued to Sawani Village, where he presented a solar-powered freezer to the Sawani Youth Club, aimed at facilitating sustainable income generation, alongside additional sports equipment to nurture the physical development of village youth.
Furthermore, Mr. Saukuru visited Anasa Kaitoa, a dedicated young farmer in Naruwai Village. He highlighted the challenges faced by rural farmers and the necessity of providing resources to help them thrive. With the IGP grant, Mr. Kaitoa will gain access to crucial farming equipment that will improve his operations and enhance vegetable production, underscoring the ministry’s dedication to supporting agriculture and rural youth development.
This series of visits reflects a proactive approach by the government to build self-reliant communities and provide opportunities for young people, particularly in underserved areas. The emphasis on empowering youth through both sustainable practices and sports not only fosters personal growth but also strengthens community ties.
In summary, Mr. Saukuru’s outreach efforts signify hope for rural youth, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to uplifting communities through resource distribution, skill development, and sports engagement. The initiatives undertaken during this holiday season demonstrate a dedication to creating a brighter, more sustainable future for the youth of Fiji.
Leave a comment