Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has rejected the stereotype labeling Indigenous Fijians as “resource-rich but poor,” asserting that this characterization should be firmly rejected. During his speech in Parliament, Rabuka highlighted the significant income streams of iTaukei communities, which collectively earn substantial revenues that challenge the prevailing narrative of poverty.
According to recent data from the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB), Indigenous Fijians receive approximately $100 million annually from leases and royalties, in addition to an impressive $1.07 billion from remittances—representing a notable 80% of the total remittances received in Fiji. Furthermore, wages and salaries contributed another estimated $350 million to their income. This translates to a per capita income of $F6,368.10 when including remittances, which far exceeds Fiji’s national poverty threshold of $F2,190 per annum.
Rabuka stressed the importance of strategic economic initiatives to empower the iTaukei. Despite the promising income figures, he noted that only 5% of this income is directed towards savings and investments, highlighting a critical area that needs attention. “To conquer poverty, we can, and we must be strategic in how we use our resources,” he urged.
Echoing the sentiments in previous discussions, the Prime Minister indicated that the ongoing challenges faced by iTaukei in business ownership, where fewer than 5% of businesses are controlled by them, must be addressed through systemic reforms. Prof. Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister, emphasized the need for a collective approach to enhance economic participation and acknowledged that barriers such as limited access to finance and inadequate infrastructure must be overcome.
To face these challenges, government initiatives like the Vuda Strategic Development Plan are being implemented, which aims to equip iTaukei communities with the necessary resources and business frameworks to improve their economic conditions.
Overall, Rabuka’s message is one of hope and empowerment, reflecting a commitment to transforming the economic realities of the iTaukei community. By harnessing their existing resources and encouraging strategic planning and financial literacy, there is potential for lasting change and sustainable growth that can uplift Indigenous Fijians and contribute positively to the overall economy of Fiji.
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