Multi-stakeholder consultations for Fiji’s first National Rural Development Policy (NRDP) are in full swing in the Eastern Division, marking a crucial advancement in enhancing rural and maritime development planning across the nation. These consultations, led by the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, commenced with an opening session hosted by Hon. Sakiasi R. Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, at the Yatu Lau Hotel in Suva.
The diverse group of participants includes representatives from government ministries, state-owned enterprises, the private sector, civil society organizations, development partners, and community members from Rotuma, Lau, Lomaiviti, and Kadavu. Minister Ditoka emphasized that the NRDP aims to improve coordination and service delivery while ensuring that development initiatives align with the actual needs of rural and maritime communities.
The minister acknowledged that many areas in Fiji grapple with ongoing challenges such as geographic isolation, high transportation expenses, limited access to essential services and markets, and escalating climate and disaster-related risks. He highlighted that the policy is being crafted through a co-creation model, which allows communities and stakeholders to actively contribute to the definition of national rural development priorities, thus ensuring the policy is both people-centered and pragmatic.
The NRDP is a response to a review of the Integrated Rural Development Framework 2009, which identified deficiencies in coordination, data utilization, and community engagement. To address these issues, the Ministry has launched a Change Management Programme, with the development of the NRDP recognized as its inaugural major initiative.
These consultations span two days and are part of a comprehensive nationwide engagement strategy that will guide the finalization of the policy. This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to inclusive development, ensuring that no rural or maritime community is overlooked in the process. The collaborative effort reflects a hopeful vision for a more equitable and sustainable future for all Fijians.
Leave a comment