The government has significantly increased funding for the Multi-Ethnic Affairs grant, doubling it to $2 million this year. This move is aimed at enhancing grassroots development and fostering community inclusion, as indicated by the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs. Last year, the grant was set at $1.2 million. The announcement was made during the inauguration of the Olosara Ram Mandir Crossing in Nadi.
Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, emphasized that this increased funding will enable more villages and settlements, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, to access essential infrastructure. Last year, the program supported 202 projects, and the expanded funding is expected to facilitate even more initiatives in 2025. Singh highlighted that these projects are not limited to construction but also aim to strengthen social ties and ensure community inclusivity.
The Olosara crossing, completed at a cost of $9,950, was a collaborative effort where the ministry provided materials, while the Olosara Mandir Committee contributed the labor. Singh noted that this partnership exemplifies how government and communities can collaborate to achieve substantial societal advancements.
In the past, similar funding efforts have supported various community projects such as water management, educational infrastructure, and cultural preservation. The government has consistently emphasized inclusivity and upliftment of minority communities, with recent efforts involving allocations of $1.5 million to reinvigorate community-based organizations after a long hiatus.
The enhancement in funding for the Multi-Ethnic Affairs grant underscores a commitment to building a cohesive and vibrant society in Fiji, where diverse communities can thrive together. Through such initiatives, the government aims to create an environment that values diversity, unity, and sustainable development at the grassroots level, fostering hope for a brighter, more inclusive future for all its citizens.
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