An agreement has been established between the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Fiji’s Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, with the goal of enhancing the livelihoods and overall wellbeing of people living in rural and maritime areas of Fiji. This ‘Implementing Partner Agreement’ was signed recently, targeting several challenges faced by these communities including healthcare access, gender-based violence, family planning, economic opportunities, youth and women’s empowerment, as well as disaster response strategies.
Isa Talemaibua, the Permanent Secretary for Rural and Maritime Development, highlighted that over recent years, the UNFPA has deployed various programs specifically tailored to address the unique needs of rural and maritime populations. He praised the UN agency for its significant support to the Northern Division since 2020, acknowledging that geographic isolation and limited access to essential services have created substantial challenges for these communities, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and marginalized populations.
Talemaibua emphasized that UNFPA’s initiatives aim to bridge existing gaps, ensuring inclusivity regardless of the remoteness of a community or the significant barriers they encounter. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to implementing development strategies that provide rural areas with the same level of access to essential services and economic opportunities as those in urban settings.
A core strategic priority for the ministry involves raising the standard of living and invigorating the rural economy, ensuring that Fiji’s rural and maritime communities become productive, progressive, safe, and resilient.
This partnership represents a hopeful step toward improving the lives of many in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and development in otherwise isolated areas.
The optimism surrounding these efforts is palpable, signifying a potential transformation for many communities as they gain better access to essential services and opportunities for empowerment.
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