Fiji’s cooperative movement solidifies its role in development with 700-plus groups, assets worth 151 million dollars, and strong community impact
Fiji’s cooperative sector continues to expand its footprint across the nation, now comprising more than 700 registered cooperatives spanning multiple sectors. Collectively, these groups hold assets totaling about 151 million dollars, generate around 26 million dollars in revenue, and report profits of approximately 2.5 million dollars, while uniting roughly 40,000 members.
In Lautoka, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted the sector’s contribution to Fiji’s National Development Plan, noting that cooperatives have helped many Fijians move out of poverty and gain financial independence. Speaking at the launch of the Uluinatabua Teachers’ Village, a multi-million-dollar housing project led by the Fijian Teachers Association Cooperative Thrift Limited, Rabuka underscored the transformative power of cooperative enterprises in agriculture, fishing, and retail, and reiterated the sector’s central place in national policy.
Rabuka emphasized that the government views cooperatives as engines of growth, sustainability, and empowerment, essential to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He also pointed to the sector’s resilience and social value, remarking that cooperatives serve as safety nets that stabilize communities in the face of economic and environmental challenges.
The government has strengthened this movement through the Cooperative Development Fund, which provides grants to boost cooperative enterprises nationwide. Projects highlighted as beneficiaries include Narocake Cooperative Limited in Lovu, which has secured timber sale agreements and is building homes for its members; Matabani Cooperative in Nadroga, which is pursuing renewable energy initiatives; and Drawa Carbon Cooperative, which is generating income through carbon trading while supporting reforestation efforts. These examples illustrate how innovation—ranging from carbon trading to eco-tourism—sits at the heart of Fiji’s cooperative strategy.
The sector’s evolution aligns with broader national and global goals. Since Fiji’s first cooperative in 1948, the movement has diversified beyond traditional consumer and copra-related activities into areas such as carbon markets and renewable energy, expanding opportunities while promoting democratic governance, shared ownership, and inclusivity. The continued growth underscores a hopeful outlook for sustainable development, particularly in empowering women and youth and creating sustainable livelihoods across communities.
In addition to policy support, recent developments include a new digital platform designed to give the public easier access to cooperative information and funding processes. Officials say the platform will improve transparency and streamline government support for cooperative ventures, reinforcing the sector’s role in community resilience and economic opportunity.
What this means for Fiji
– A diversified, resilient local economy: With assets and revenues on the rise and a broad sector spread, cooperatives are reinforcing community resilience and providing diversified income streams.
– Social impact and inclusion: The emphasis on youth and women’s empowerment, democratic governance, and shared ownership supports social equity while driving growth.
– A platform for sustainable futures: Innovations such as carbon trading and renewable energy projects position cooperatives at the forefront of environmental and economic sustainability.
Summary
Fiji’s cooperative ecosystem stands as a growing force for development, combining solid assets, steady revenue, and a powerful social mission. Government support through funding and digital tools, alongside real-world projects in housing, energy, and carbon markets, signal a positive trajectory toward inclusive and sustainable growth for communities across the islands.
Additional note
This momentum invites more local success stories. Readers and potential participants can explore how cooperatives operate in their area and what resources are available to start or join a cooperative venture that aligns with Fiji’s development goals.
Overall outlook: positive and hopeful, with continued emphasis on empowerment, innovation, and sustainable development.
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