The Minister for i-Taukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, has announced that the review team focusing on the i-Taukei Affairs Act is expected to complete its work and submit its findings by the end of this month.
Vasu highlighted that the main goals of this review are to enhance the economic opportunities for the i-Taukei community and to reinforce governance within the Vanua system. Addressing questions about the status of the review during an Oral Question session, he noted that the team’s efforts are supported by the Strategic Advisory Group (SAG).
The review process is organized into five phases, with updates provided to the SAG at the conclusion of each phase. Vasu mentioned that the review team has engaged with a diverse range of stakeholders, including religious groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), university students, i-Taukei institutions, women’s groups, statutory bodies, provincial councils, and the general public.
He stated, “The Review Team has consulted and gathered insights from a credible cross-section of the community. During these consultations, Fijians have expressed support for the continued i-Taukei administration, but there is a clear call for a fundamental shift in its operational approach.” Vasu stressed the importance of addressing emerging issues that are currently influencing the development agenda.