Today, community representatives from 17 informal settlements came together at the Civic Centre to kick off the three-day Vakatawa Noke Governance Training. This training is dedicated to enhancing community leadership and promoting inclusive governance—a much-needed initiative in the region.
The program seeks to empower communities to lead their own sustainable development efforts while improving their engagement with national governance systems. Linda Chen, the First Secretary for Development at the Australian High Commission, praised the collaborative spirit behind the initiative during her opening remarks. “I hope that this training provides you not just with the practical skills and insights in governance and leadership, but empowers you to take forward what you have learned to ensure that the community needs are adequately addressed,” she stated.
Reflecting on the challenges residents face, Sakiusa Tubuna, Assistant Minister for the Prime Minister’s Office, highlighted the stark inequalities that persist. He remarked on the need for better grassroots data to inform sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of knowing how many people have access to basic sanitation and waste disposal. This call for data collection is echoed in ongoing efforts across various communities, as observed in previous governance training organized for Community Councils, which aimed to empower individuals in informal settlements.
The Vakatawa Noke Governance Training, a collaborative effort involving the Balance of Power project and the Fiji Council of Social Services, provides a vital platform for marginalized voices to influence governance reform, ultimately fostering a stronger, more engaged community.
As communities invest in leadership training and strive for more effective governance, there is a positive outlook for achieving long-term development goals and ensuring the addressing of community needs. This approach aligns with broader initiatives focused on uplifting marginalized populations in Fiji and building a foundation for a more equitable future.
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