Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has recognized the difficulties the nation is currently experiencing, remarking, “As natives, we are going through a period of challenges and change.”
While addressing the annual gathering for the province of Tailevu yesterday, Rabuka praised the support the province has extended to the Coalition Government. The two-day meeting is taking place at Vuci, Tokatoka in Tailevu.
Rabuka pointed out key developments in Tailevu, such as enhancements to wharf facilities at Waidalice and Wainawi, along with improvements to the Namau and Viria water supply systems, which are set to benefit areas in Tailevu shortly.
He also laid out ambitious plans for the province, concentrating on sectors like agriculture, fisheries, health, youth development, poverty alleviation, and tackling the issue of illicit drug cultivation.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of traditional roles in local leadership and their influence in guiding the community through religious and governmental frameworks.
He noted that approximately 483 traditional titles (55 percent) have been filled, while 396 (45 percent) positions are still vacant in the Tailevu province, stressing the need for the Council to address these vacancies.
In discussing societal issues, Rabuka brought attention to climate change, preparedness for cyclones, preservation of culture, and the growing rates of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), HIV, and the abuse of women and children.
He concluded by stressing the importance of collaborative planning at the village, district, and provincial levels to maintain progress and development in Tailevu.