Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged the difficulties facing the nation, stating, “As natives, we are going through a period of challenges and change.”
While officiating at the annual meeting for the province of Tailevu yesterday, Rabuka praised the support that the province has extended to the Coalition Government. The two-day meeting is taking place at Vuci, Tokatoka in Tailevu.
Rabuka pointed out significant developments in the region, including enhancements to wharf facilities in Waidalice and Wainawi, as well as the upgraded Namau and Viria water supply systems, which are set to benefit parts of Tailevu soon.
He also outlined ambitious plans for the province, emphasizing agriculture, fisheries, health, youth development, poverty reduction, and efforts to combat illegal drug cultivation.
Additionally, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of traditional positions in community leadership, highlighting their role in guiding citizens within both religious and governmental frameworks. He noted that approximately 483 traditional titles (55 percent) have been filled, while 396 positions (45 percent) remain vacant in the Tailevu province, emphasizing the need for the Council to address these vacancies.
In addressing societal challenges, the Prime Minister covered issues such as climate change, cyclone preparedness, cultural preservation, and the increasing prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), HIV, as well as domestic abuse against women and children.
Rabuka concluded by underscoring the necessity for collaborative planning at village, district, and provincial levels to ensure ongoing progress and development for Tailevu.