New Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Alitia Bainivalu, acknowledged that her new role in the Cabinet comes with significant expectations. Bainivalu’s appointment marks the first time a woman has headed the Ministry, and she expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for placing trust in her with this ministerial responsibility.
Bainivalu also extended her thanks to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka for his leadership and guidance over the past 18 months. She expressed appreciation to her predecessor, Kalivati Ravu, for his service and support to both the fisheries and forestry sectors.
The Ministry of Fisheries has received an increased budget of $25.3 million, while the Ministry of Forests has been allocated $31.4 million. Bainivalu emphasized her intention to work closely with stakeholders to further develop both the fisheries and forest industries.