In his New Year’s Day address, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasized the need to move away from relying on handouts, advocating for a targeted approach to poverty alleviation. He outlined a vision that aims to lift the most marginalized and poorest communities out of poverty, starting with one village at a time.
Mr. Rabuka acknowledged that while this goal will require time and effort, it is achievable, using examples from other countries that have successfully improved livelihoods. He stressed that everyone deserves a life of dignity and called for a shift away from dependency on welfare programs.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of innovation and investment as critical components in breaking the cycle of poverty. He pointed out that this initiative requires a collective effort from all sectors of the country but must begin with localized action.
The role of the private sector is crucial in this endeavor, and the government plans to facilitate this cooperation. Over the past two years, the Coalition Government has launched various initiatives to fulfill Fijians’ rights to housing, sanitation, adequate food, and clean water. Significant investments have been made in infrastructure, ensuring safe and clean drinking water, reliable electricity, quality education, and improved health services to enhance the standard of living across the country.
The Rural Water and Sanitation Policy aims to improve access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities, especially in rural and maritime regions, with a $259 million budget allocated for the Water Authority of Fiji. This funding will support programs like the rainwater harvesting scheme, which provides resources for households in remote areas.
Moreover, Mr. Rabuka assured that the government would continue providing essential social protection programs, such as various assistance and pension schemes, to support those in need while transitioning towards more sustainable poverty reduction strategies.
This shift in approach could lead to meaningful change and empowerment for disadvantaged communities, fostering a more resilient and self-sufficient population. By reforming the focus on sustainable development rather than temporary assistance, Fiji has the potential to build a brighter future for all its citizens.
Summary: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced a new focus on targeted poverty alleviation in his New Year address, emphasizing the need to stop handouts and promote self-sufficiency. He outlined a strategy to improve living standards through community-specific initiatives, strengthen the private sector’s role, and continue social protection programs while making significant investments in infrastructure and essential services for all Fijians.
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