Significant progress has been made in the allocation and spending of the 2024-2025 budget for social welfare programs in Fiji, with over 70% of the $171 million earmarked for the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection already utilized. This information was revealed by Minister Sashi Kiran in response to inquiries from Opposition MP Premila Kumar, indicating that more than $120.8 million has already been dispensed this financial year.
The breakdown of expenditures across various programs showcases the government’s commitment to assist vulnerable populations. The Social Pension Scheme has expended 79% of its $78 million budget, providing crucial support to elderly citizens. Meanwhile, the Family Assistance Scheme has utilized 59% of its $44.2 million allocation, and the Transport Assistance Scheme has nearly fully exhausted its budget of $13.3 million, benefiting 74,840 beneficiaries—the highest number among all programs.
Additional allocations include 68% of the $17.4 million budget spent on the Child Protection Allowance, 43% of the $17.6 million for Persons with Disability support, and 61% of the $400,000 budget for the Food Allowance for Rural Pregnant Mothers.
The continuity of support for these programs is vital, particularly in light of the steady increase in social welfare recipients over previous years. This year alone, Fiji aims to assist over 182,000 individuals through these critical programs, which also include integrated initiatives like the e-transport scheme and targeted support for those facing homelessness.
The proactive measures taken by the government demonstrate a firm commitment to enhancing social support systems and improving the living conditions of its citizens. With plans to strengthen these programs even further, there is potential for continued improvement in the welfare landscape of Fiji, promising hope for a more secure and inclusive future for its vulnerable populations.
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