Three significant stories are prominent on the front page of The Fiji Times for Thursday, October 24.
One article highlights the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka being bestowed the title of honorary Samoan chief, or Tagaloa, during a ceremony in Leauva’a village. This event marked his official welcome ahead of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia, with further details available on Page 20.
The lead story features Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, urging the nation’s leaders to engage more openly with the populace. This call comes in the wake of a National Security and Defence Review that emphasizes a decline in public trust towards the government and security institutions. Additionally, Ali expressed her disagreement with Prime Minister Rabuka’s nomination of Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu for the presidency, insisting that Fijians should have the right to vote for their President.
In a separate development, Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Manoa Kamikamica addressed the pressing issue of labor shortages at a recent workshop in Nadi. He underscored that this shortage represents a significant challenge across all sectors in Fiji, especially for micro, small, and medium enterprises that rely on a qualified workforce. The migration of skilled workers has further exacerbated this issue, which negatively affects critical areas such as tourism, healthcare, education, and technology.
Kamikamica reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting productivity by focusing on new industries and modernizing policies to foster a conducive business environment. He mentioned the establishment of an Investment Facilitation Committee aimed at aiding investors and ensuring a smoother investment process.
The impact of labor shortages could lead to reduced productivity, slower economic growth, and challenges in attracting workers, potentially resulting in increased operational costs and diminished service quality. This complex issue warrants urgent attention and collaborative efforts to implement effective strategies, training, and investment, paving the way for a resilient economy. While these challenges exist, they may also present opportunities for innovation and growth.
Engagement and proactive dialogue will be essential in addressing this pressing concern and moving towards a stronger economic foundation.