In a significant move towards enhancing rural development and combating poverty, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reiterated the People’s Coalition government’s pledge to promote inclusive growth in Fiji through the Vanua Levu Road upgrade initiative. Recently, Mr. Rabuka, alongside Fiji’s Ambassador to China, Robert Lee, conducted a two-day inspection in the Northern Division to review the advancement of the road upgrades funded by China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) through a grant from the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).
This ambitious $300 million project aims to improve crucial road networks across Vanua Levu, significantly increasing accessibility for rural communities and opening up new economic pathways. During his tour, Mr. Rabuka emphasized that the road upgrades go beyond mere infrastructure; they offer a “pathway to prosperity,” designed to enhance rural livelihoods and convert connectivity into real benefits for the populace.
While inspecting key segments of the road, including the Nabouwalu to Natolo route and the Wailevu West Coast Road, Mr. Rabuka highlighted the importance of empowering rural communities to leverage the new infrastructure for economic growth rather than relying solely on urban migration. He underscored that the upgrade is a stepping stone towards wellness and wealth in rural areas, aligning with the government’s Targeted Poverty Alleviation Programme focused on eradicating poverty village by village.
Reflecting on his personal connections to the area, Mr. Rabuka shared memories from his childhood, expressing his commitment to ensuring that these communities receive the development they deserve. The potential economic benefits of improved transport infrastructure were discussed during a briefing in Savusavu, with expectations of growth in tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors.
Ambassador Lee affirmed the significance of this initiative as a testament to the strong partnership between Fiji and China, aimed at unleashing the economic potential of rural regions. Furthermore, Mr. Rabuka addressed the Mount Kasi mining issue, expressing hope for its resolution in collaboration with relevant departments.
Concluding his visit, the Prime Minister urged senior civil servants to actively tackle public service challenges, reinforcing the importance of collective efforts in fostering equitable development. He emphasized that the attention on Vanua Levu reflects a broader strategy for nationwide growth, advocating for a united vision of a prosperous, connected, and resilient Fiji.
This initiative marks a crucial step towards revitalizing rural areas and empowering communities, showcasing the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and economic opportunities for all citizens.
Overall, the road upgrades represent not just infrastructure improvements, but a hopeful vision for a brighter and more prosperous future for rural Fiji, highlighting the importance of connectivity in driving local economies forward.
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