The Fiji National Budget Plan for 2024-2025 has been unveiled, featuring various critical items that are currently under thorough examination by experts from all industries. Having previously contributed to numerous budgets, I fully grasp the complexities encompassing national budget preparation.
Creating a national budget requires relentless effort and collective participation since it is among the most challenging responsibilities of any government. The budget goes beyond attending to mundane needs; it also envisions developmental strategies that can enhance economic growth and living standards. It sometimes epitomizes predicting future scenarios, events that could disrupt all plans, such as the impacts of tropical cyclone Winston and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ultimate purpose of any budget should primarily focus on the people’s needs while also balancing the wider national requirements. However, achieving consensus among all stakeholders is virtually impossible. There have been instances in the past where the government faced the arduous task of fostering greater public involvement to accommodate a spectrum of views during the budget preparation process.
As a communications consultant, my central role was to find tech-driven, inventive solutions to elevate ordinary Fijians’ lives. In response to that, I launched a multiplatform initiative called “online consultations” that allowed the entire Fijian population to suggest their ideas and perspectives on the budget. The diversified input was subsequently submitted to the Ministry of Economy for consideration. Furthermore, this innovative practice continued even with changing governments, contributing to a more inclusive, representative, and enriching budgeting procedure.
However, not all suggestions could be included in the final budget. Ultimately, it’s the government’s strategic approach that shapes the budget and the betterment of the population’s lives. Despite the significant effort and dedication towards the budget by various sectors, some grievances will always remain.
Considering the crafting of the national budget, it’s crucial to focus on diversified economic growth through the inclusion of sectors like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. Enhanced focus on education, public-private partnerships, and alignment with Fiji’s unique culture, social, and economic landscape are other important factors. An alternative development method pivoting towards sustainable practices with e-governance and online platforms can play a substantial role in achieving national development goals.
However, while upscaling infrastructure and digital advancements, strengthening social safety nets for vulnerable groups remains pivotal. The national budget aims at making lives better. Therefore, it’s necessary to put aside political differences and evaluate the budget from this perspective. The country’s human capital is its most valuable asset that should never be overlooked.
ARNOLD CHANEL is an investor and business executive with vast tech expertise. Contact him at ceo@vanguardtech.pro. The views expressed are solely his and do not represent this newspaper.