Civil servants, agricultural officers, and extension workers in Fiji have been urged to take a more active role in educating rural and farming communities about available government budget provisions. During a post-budget forum held in Nadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad expressed that many citizens are missing out on vital government support simply due to a lack of awareness.
He noted significant budget allocations for crucial sectors, including agriculture, education, and small business development, yet emphasized that access to these benefits is not uniform. Professor Prasad provided an illustration of visiting a farming community where he discovered that many farmers were unaware of subsidies that had recently been introduced.
To address this gap, he appealed to civil servants and agriculture officers to disseminate budget information more widely, ensuring not just those who are organized, educated, or more affluent benefit from the provisions available.
The Tui Nawaka, Ratu Joeli Bulu Derenalagi, echoed the minister’s call, encouraging residents of Ba Province and beyond to engage with the national budget. He expressed satisfaction with the increased funding allocated to the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighting the considerable potential for rural communities to leverage government assistance to boost agricultural productivity.
The ongoing dialogue about budget consultations illustrates a commitment to inclusivity in governance, allowing voices from all levels of society to contribute to shaping policies. This proactive approach builds a hopeful narrative where the government’s initiatives can lead to a more productive and prosperous future for farmers and communities across Fiji. By enhancing awareness and accessibility, there is a real possibility for rural development to flourish under the current budgetary frameworks.
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