Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officially presented machinery and equipment valued at $1.6 million to four iTaukei landowning units yesterday. This distribution is part of the iTaukei Development Fund Facility, which is managed by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB). The equipment handed over includes two tractors, a lorry, a bulldozer, a digger, and a 12-wheeler truck.
During the handover ceremony, Prime Minister Rabuka praised the TLTB for their efforts in empowering landowners, stating, “I am glad to know that the TLTB has taken a bold step in implementing initiatives to address landowning needs for accessibility to capital.” He emphasized that this support would enable landowners to make the most of their resources, thus encouraging their business growth and promoting active participation in the national economy.
The Prime Minister described this initiative as a critical step towards addressing longstanding issues of wealth distribution and inequality. He remarked on the importance of alleviating disparities that have affected various aspects of national life, suggesting that these initiatives may help repair the perception of unfairness regarding resource distribution among the iTaukei.
The four landowning units receiving assistance include: Tui Labasa, which was granted $47,000 to purchase a tractor for farming; Dreketi Mahogany Landowners Cooperative, an iTaukei enterprise which received $1.3 million for their mahogany plantation operations; Nativi Farmers’ Cooperative, which will acquire a tractor with $62,000 to enhance their canefarming operations; and Tokatoka Sautorotoro, approved for $193,400 to support vehicle purchases and business capital for property development.
This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to bolstering the iTaukei community’s economic activities and addressing historical inequalities with targeted support.
In summary, the transfer of this machinery and equipment not only promises to enhance the operational capabilities of these landowning units but also signifies a larger effort towards equitable wealth distribution and economic empowerment for the iTaukei people, fostering hope for a more prosperous future.
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