During the opening of the 14th Fiji National Scout Jamboree in Sigatoka, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere emphasized the importance of Scouting and Girl Guiding in fostering the mental, physical, and spiritual growth of young individuals. The previous Jamboree took place in 2018, while the 2022 event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ratu Wiliame highlighted that scouting encourages children to become constructive members of society. He noted, “Scouting is founded on its Promise and Law, guiding youth to acquire new skills and habits of lifelong learning, while also building confidence, self-esteem, and embracing the excitement of outdoor adventures.”
He described scouting as an enjoyable pastime that promotes personal and social development, in line with the scout constitution aimed at helping young people realize their full potential physically, intellectually, socially, spiritually, and emotionally, and to grow into responsible citizens.
Furthermore, Ratu Wiliame announced that the government has allocated $98,000 in the current budget to support various scout initiatives contributing to national development, including the Jamboree.