The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is actively engaging with provincial councils to uncover opportunities for land-based economic development in agriculture and eco-tourism. During a recent update on the GCC Regulations 2024, iTaukei Affairs Minister Ifereimi Vasu highlighted various initiatives designed to bolster the economic well-being of the iTaukei community.
One key development is the National Cocoa Industry Revitalisation Policy, established in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, reflecting a commitment to reinvigorating this once-thriving sector. Furthermore, the GCC is implementing a poverty alleviation project in Rewa, backed by support from the government of China, emphasizing international cooperation aimed at community upliftment.
Mr. Vasu also mentioned the formation of an economic subcommittee within the GCC, which focuses on community-based enterprises, leveraging traditional land ownership to foster economic growth. In addition to economic initiatives, the GCC is committed to revitalizing the iTaukei language and traditional crafts, integrating cultural education into the national school curriculum, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their heritage.
These combined efforts indicate that the GCC is moving towards becoming a functional and resourceful entity, directly addressing iTaukei governance, economic participation, and cultural restoration. The council’s initiatives aim to cultivate intergenerational leadership and community cohesion, promoting a hopeful outlook for the iTaukei people as they navigate socio-economic challenges while preserving their cultural identity.
This revitalization of the GCC represents an affirmative step toward fostering empowerment and resilience within the iTaukei community, highlighting the importance of balancing cultural heritage with necessary economic advancement.
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