Efforts are underway to recognize traditional roles in our community. The acknowledgment of these roles will significantly support governance in our land, church, and state.
In Tailevu, there are 879 traditional roles, but currently 483 are recognized while 396 remain unacknowledged. This was highlighted by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during the Tailevu Provincial Council meeting held in Vuci, Tokatoka, on Thursday.
He indicated that the assessment of our villages, which lack recognition of their traditional roles, shows a stagnation in development and suggests a disregard for local laws that could empower community members.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the recent acceptance of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which affirms the rights of indigenous landowners globally.
The government is actively pursuing various initiatives aimed at raising the status of indigenous people in today’s context and their roles in economic empowerment, particularly through financial assistance for local businesses, agricultural development, and support for small enterprises and cooperatives.
Three major pillars underpin the government’s strategy to enhance the quality of life in our communities: strengthening the economic resilience of the land, empowering the community, and ensuring good governance.
The Prime Minister noted that this strategy is founded on principles of transparency and community engagement. He stressed that ongoing development requires a strong backing of sound policies that are community-focused and ultimately benefit indigenous people.
In health development, advancements have been made in the general outpatient department at Korovou Hospital, along with improvements at Nausori and Dogo Hospitals.
In the youth sector, 75 youth organizations in the region are seeking further support to enhance their community programs, with assistance from the youth division and other government sectors.
In agriculture, it was reported that 48% of residents in the region are engaged in farming, indicating a significant focus on crops such as taro, dalo, bananas, and yaqona, as well as ginger, turmeric, sweet potatoes, and pineapples.
In fisheries, there are 738 fishing licenses and 144 aquaculture licenses in the region, with plans to develop an ice plant in Natovi. Additionally, mahogany is being cultivated in Nukurua and Sawakasa, along with pine trees in Wainibuka and Dawasamu.
The government has allocated $3.2 million for rural and outer island development to support indigenous agriculture.
The Prime Minister emphasized that there are many significant initiatives currently in progress, which require thorough dialogue, including addressing climate adaptability, preparing for severe weather, promoting community development, cultural preservation, education for youth, and proper utilization of resources.
He concluded that this is a crucial time for indigenous issues, and preserving traditional practices is essential for advancing these efforts. The government is committed to safeguarding the rights and resources of communities to ensure their appropriate use.