The Coalition Government, with support from the World Bank, is not just utilizing resources but is also making a long-term investment in the future of Vanua Levu, according to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. He made this statement during the official launch of the “Na Vualiku Program” at Wasawasa Lodge in Savusavu last night.
The launch was attended by World Bank Fiji Country Manager Stephano Mocci, along with several cabinet ministers including Viliame Gavoka, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation; Sakiasi Ditoka, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development; Maciu Katamotu, Minister for Local Government; Agni Deo Singh, Minister for Employment Productivity and Industrial Relations; and Ifereimi Vasu, Minister for iTaukei Affairs.
Prime Minister Rabuka praised the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation for leading the implementation of this significant initiative. He highlighted that in the last 18 to 20 months, more than 10 companies have initiated investments in Vanua Levu, as noted by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad.
The World Bank has pledged $400 million over the next ten years to foster economic growth in the Northern Division. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of creating an investor-friendly environment through the development of transparent and consultative policies, which encompass infrastructure and other key activities essential for driving economic growth in Vanua Levu.
He stated that the Government is committed to a comprehensive strategy aimed at uplifting the economy, supporting the people, and securing a prosperous future. Prime Minister Rabuka pointed out that statistics reveal half of Fiji’s population lives in urban areas, attributing rural-urban migration as a common global challenge.
He stressed the need for the Government and its development partners to focus on what can be done to support the people. Additionally, he noted Fiji’s youthful demographic, with over half of the population under 30 years old, and highlighted that 63% of residents in the Northern Division fall within the productive age range of 15 to 64.
This demographic presents significant opportunities to leverage the country’s natural resources and people for future growth and development.