The Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs has resumed its funding for community-based organizations after a 14-year hiatus, with the initial allocation of $1.5 million set to benefit various divisions, starting from the Western Division this week. Minister Charan Jeath Singh emphasized the importance of responsible utilization of these funds while overseeing the distribution process in Lautoka.
During the grant handover on Wednesday, Singh underlined that the ministry is committed to assisting community leaders in ensuring the allocated funds are used effectively. He noted that last year, the ministry operated on a budget of $200,000 but now has a larger team to manage and monitor these projects efficiently. The minister encouraged communities to utilize the funds by the end of July to help justify future budget requests.
The grants will also extend beyond the Western Division, with plans for distribution in Levuka and the Northern Division. One such recipient, Donald Dutt, a member of the Awadhpur Ramayan Faag Mandali in Waimali, expressed gratitude for their grant of over $9,000, which will enable them to purchase their own musical instruments—an essential asset for their community activities.
These efforts reflect the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to empower diverse ethnic groups in Fiji, enhancing their capacity to contribute positively to society. This initiative echoes previous funding efforts and the ministry’s focus on uplifting minority communities, creating hope for a more inclusive and vibrant future.
The positive implications of this funding initiative highlight the government’s dedication to fostering community development and encouraging collective growth across all ethnicities in the country. Such initiatives are vital for strengthening community ties and ensuring every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
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