On Christmas Eve, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru took the initiative to visit villages in Vanua Levu, where he presented Income Generating Project (IGP) grants aimed at empowering youth and enhancing community engagement.

During his visit to Nailou Village in Cakaudrove, Mr. Saukuru met with the Nailou Youth Club, which comprises 25 young members who applied for an IGP grant earlier this year. The group was awarded $5,000 worth of beekeeping equipment, including four double honey boxes filled with bees, essential honey farming tools like a smoker and hive tools, and safety protective gear.

In addition to promoting entrepreneurship, Mr. Saukuru also delivered sports equipment for various sports such as volleyball, netball, rugby, and beach volleyball. He emphasized that these initiatives reflect the ministry’s commitment to youth development and physical activity. “This visit underscores our dedication to ensuring that even the most isolated parts of Fiji are empowered,” he stated.

Reaching Nailou required Mr. Saukuru to travel by boat for 30 minutes, highlighting the challenges some communities face regarding access and development.

Moreover, Mr. Saukuru’s visit to the Sawani Youth Club in Sawani Village included the handover of a solar-powered freezer to aid sustainable income generation. He also provided sports items to foster physical engagement among the village youth, reinforcing the ministry’s mission to uplift rural communities.

Mr. Saukuru continued his engagement in Bua, reaching out to young farmer Anasa Kaitoa from Naruwai Village, who also received an IGP grant. With this support, Mr. Kaitoa will gain access to crucial farming equipment, helping him enhance his efforts in producing a variety of crops. His dedication serves as an inspiring example of resilience in agriculture.

The minister’s engagements illustrate a positive and proactive approach toward youth empowerment, community development, and sustainable agriculture in Fiji. By providing essential resources, the ministry is fostering self-sufficient communities and encouraging the next generation to thrive.

In summary, these visits not only bring much-needed resources to rural areas but also reinforce a broader commitment to community development, skill enhancement, and encouraging a more sustainable future for Fiji’s youth.