Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasized the Coalition Government’s commitment to investing in the future of Vanua Levu with the support of the World Bank. He made this statement during the launch of the “Na Vualiku Program” at the Wasawasa Lodge in Savusavu.
The event was also attended by World Bank Fiji Country Manager Mr. Stephano Mocci, along with several Cabinet Ministers, including Viliame Gavoka, the Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, Maciu Katamotu, the Minister for Local Government, Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment Productivity and Industrial Relations, and Ifereimi Vasu, the Minister for iTaukei Affairs.
Rabuka recognized the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation for leading the implementation of this transformative initiative. He noted that over the past 18 to 20 months, more than 10 companies have invested in projects in Vanua Levu, as highlighted by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad.
The World Bank has pledged $400 million over the next decade to enhance economic growth in the Northern Division. Rabuka stressed the importance of the government’s commitment to fostering an investor-friendly environment through the development of transparent and consultative policies, which includes infrastructure and other supportive activities aimed at bolstering the economy of Vanua Levu.
He further mentioned that the government is focused on a comprehensive strategy to uplift the economy, the people, and the future of Fiji. Rabuka pointed out that half of Fiji’s population now resides in urban areas, a common challenge faced worldwide regarding rural-urban migration.
The Prime Minister reflected on the Young demographic of Fiji, with over half of the citizens under the age of 30, and noted that in the Northern Division, 63% of the population is in the productive age range of 15 to 64. This demographic, he argued, offers a significant opportunity to leverage the country’s natural resources and human capital for growth and development.