The Fijian Cabinet has officially endorsed the review report of the Integrated Rural Development Framework (IRDF) from 2009, setting the stage for the development of a new National Rural Development Policy (NDRP). The review, which took place from November 2024 to May 2025, was conducted to evaluate the framework’s effectiveness, identify community needs, and assess coordination among development partners.
The report’s findings present significant opportunities to enhance basic service delivery, retain youth in rural areas, strengthen traditional leadership, and promote climate resilience within these communities. The forthcoming policy is anticipated to foster better inter-agency collaboration and encourage participatory governance, ensuring that rural development continues to be a priority on Fiji’s national agenda.
This initiative builds on previous criticisms highlighting the IRDF’s shortcomings, which have been described as outdated and restrictive in meeting modern rural development goals. Rural and Maritime Minister, Sakiasi Ditoka, has underscored the urgency of the review, emphasizing the need for revisions to create climate- and disaster-resilient communities. Extensive consultations, workshops, and surveys were conducted during the review to ensure that the voices of the communities were included in the decision-making process.
The new NDRP will aim to address critical issues such as access to essential services like clean water, sanitation, and electricity, while also focusing on economic opportunities and educational access. Furthermore, the policy is expected to align with the visions laid out in the Fiji National Development Plan (NDP) 2025-2029, which emphasizes sustainable growth and resilience within rural areas.
Permanent Secretary for Rural and Maritime Development, Isoa Talemaibua, has highlighted the importance of community engagement in shaping this framework, indicating a hopeful outlook for collective progress. As consultations are scheduled to commence across various divisions, there is a genuine expectation that these efforts will yield significant improvements in the quality of life for many Fijians living in rural communities, thereby paving the way for a vibrant, inclusive future.
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