Fiji has launched an ambitious National Development Plan (NDP) for the years 2025-2029, sparking discussions about a promising future that includes the creation of thousands of jobs, a decrease in poverty, and enhanced opportunities for all. However, the challenge lies in executing this plan effectively. Just like a rugby play that looks good on paper but fails without the right players, diligent training, and effective oversight, the success of the NDP requires a concrete strategy and commitment.
One of the most significant hurdles faced is emigration, with many Fijians leaving for countries like Australia and New Zealand in search of better prospects for themselves and their families. This exodus poses a question: who will fill the 2,000 new jobs in tourism and 7,000 in outsourcing that the NDP aims to create by 2029 if the most skilled members of the workforce are abroad?
Nevertheless, Fiji is not alone in this struggle, and lessons can be learned from small island nations like Mauritius and Singapore that have successfully transformed their economies despite facing similar challenges.
To effectively implement the NDP, a practical six-step approach is suggested. The first step emphasizes the importance of setting clear and ambitious goals, as confusion over objectives can lead to wasted efforts. The NDP has outlined specific targets such as creating 2,000 new jobs in tourism by 2027, increasing agricultural jobs, establishing Fiji as a hub for outsourcing with 4,000 jobs in three years, and boosting manufacturing’s share in employment.
While having set targets is commendable, it’s crucial to ensure that the right talent is available to achieve these goals. Taking inspiration from Mauritius and Singapore, which diversified their economies through training and strategic investments, Fiji must ensure it has skilled workers ready to meet its ambitious job targets.
The second step involves assigning clear responsibilities, akin to knowing who has possession of the ball in rugby. Leadership is vital, and the current strategy places the Ministry of Finance at the helm of the NDP. However, it is argued that the Prime Minister should take on a more active leadership role to drive accountability and oversee progress.
Clear accountability structures should be established, assigning specific roles to ministries: the Ministry of Tourism must collaborate with local businesses to fill job vacancies, the Ministry of Agriculture is tasked with increasing the number of farmers, while the Ministry of Communications and IT must ensure the outsourcing job targets are met. Learning from Singapore’s rigorous accountability measures could enhance Fiji’s approach to managing its development goals.
Once goals are set and responsibilities allocated, progress tracking is essential. Fiji requires regular updates to ensure targets are being met and to address any potential obstacles swiftly. Celebrating milestones as they are achieved will boost morale and convey progress to the public.
Despite the focus on economic growth, the success of the NDP hinges on comprehensive policies aimed at creating quality jobs. Retaining local talent and attracting Fijians back home must be prioritized in order to fill the newly created positions.
In conclusion, the successful implementation of Fiji’s National Development Plan hinges on a cohesive strategy that emphasizes ambitious goal setting, clear accountability, and consistent progress tracking. With commitment and teamwork, Fiji has the potential to succeed in this endeavor and secure a brighter future for its citizens.