The Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs has recommenced funding for community-based organizations following a 14-year pause, with an initial allocation of $1.5 million directed towards various divisions, starting with the Western Division this week. Minister Charan Jeath Singh emphasized the importance of responsibly managing these funds during a grant handover ceremony in Lautoka.
Minister Singh highlighted the ministry’s commitment to aiding community leaders in effectively utilizing the funds provided. Previously, the ministry operated on a budget of just $200,000, but now, with a larger team in place, it can better manage and oversee these initiatives. He encouraged communities to make use of the funds by the end of July to support justifying future budget requests.
The grants will not only benefit the Western Division but are also planned for distribution in Levuka and the Northern Division. One of the grant recipients, Donald Dutt of the Awadhpur Ramayan Faag Mandali in Waimali, expressed his appreciation for their grant of over $9,000, which will allow the group to acquire their own musical instruments, an important resource for their community activities.
This initiative underlines the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to empowering Fiji’s diverse ethnic groups and enhancing their ability to contribute positively to society. It builds on previous funding efforts focused on uplifting minority communities, creating hope for a more inclusive and vibrant future.
The hope generated by this funding initiative underscores the government’s dedication to fostering community development and collective growth among various ethnicities in Fiji. Such efforts are crucial for strengthening community bonds and ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to flourish.
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